Shirley Larsen

Shirley Albiston Larsen died on November 26,2021, at the age of 90.  She was a sassy and wise, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend that will be dearly missed.

Born on May 29, 1931, in Richmond, Utah, to Ruby and Melvin (Holly) Albiston, Shirley was a Cache Valley girl growing up playing sports and spending time with many friends.  She moved to Provo to attend BYU and met the love of her life, Gary H. Larsen.  They were married in the Logan Temple on March 6, 1952, and spent 53 years together, building a beautiful life in Orem, Utah.

Her life was full of laughter and service. She was a wonderful mother and an anchor of support for her children throughout their lives. She and Gary spent much of their time with their children and grandkids, taking many family trips to Bear Lake, the Unita’s, or Southern Utah -- camping, fishing, and hiking. Shirley developed meaningful relationships with each of her children and grandchildren and was keenly aware of the details in their lives. All of them knew that they were important, loved, and in her prayers.

Shirley loved the Lord and was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving many years in the primary and relief society. She always wanted to serve a mission with Gary, and after retirement they were called to serve in a small branch of the church at the Seville retirement home in Orem. They served in this calling for ll years and loved this time in their life.

Shirley was truly interested in everyone she met. After conversations with her, it seemed she knew more about your life than you did. She was always happy to listen and give wise, uplifting advice to all who called or visited her home.

We will miss the Friday night parties-- full of candy, cards, conversation, and laughter into the wee hours of the morning. She kept her zest for life and witty humor right to the end, and we were all privileged to know her.

She was preceded in death by her sisters Helen and Jalaine, her husband Gary, daughter-in-law Tonya, and great-grandson Brandon. She is survived by her 4 children, Sue(Dale) Porter, Ann (Steve) Whiteley, G. Lynn (Patti) Larsen, and Alan Larsen; 16 grandchildren and 43 ½ great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 4, at 12 p.m. at the Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary (495 S. State Street, Orem, Utah). Family and friends may visit before the service at the Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary from 10:30-11:30 a.m. that morning.

*Please wear a mask to the services to help protect our vulnerable friends and family. Interment will be at the Orem City Cemetery.

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.sundbergoplinmotruary.com.  We would love to hear your stories.

For those unable to attend, you may view the Service HERE

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.

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