Raymond J. Larson, age 88, of Hart, passed away peacefully Saturday, December 21, 2013, after complications from a stroke. He was born October 14, 1925, to Arnold and Rhilla (Christian) Larson in Hart, Michigan. He married Barbara Jean Glover on February 26, 1948, the love of his life for 61 years.

Ray proudly served in the US Navy during World War II. He lied about his age to join the Navy at the young age of 16. He served in Africa, Europe, and Pacific theaters. Ray returned to Hart and became co-owner, and then owner, of Larson & Son Feed Store, which eventually changed to Larson and Son ACE Hardware, for 40 years. He took over the store from his father and eventually turned it over to his son, Garth Larson.

Raymond was a life member of the American Legion, Elks, Lions, and VFW organizations. He was also a member of the Oceana County Fair Board, serving as its Secretary for many years. Ray loved golfing, traveling all over the world with family and friends, tending to his yard and garden, and, most of all, spending time with his grandchildren.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, wife Barbara (2009), and his three brothers, Edward, Douglas, and Kenneth Larson. Surviving are his children, Rodney (Janice) Larson of Salt Lake City, Utah; Garth (Susan) Larson of Hart, Michigan; and Nancy (Jon) Hook of Toledo, Ohio; six grandchildren, Christopher (Diane) Larson of Cary, North Carolina; Julie (Robert) Nilles of Friendswoods, Texas; Rebecca (Matt) Devitt of Chicago, Illinois; Angela Smith of Hart, Michigan; LTJG Michael Hook of Norfolk, Virginia; and Jennifer Hook of Rocky River, Ohio; four great-grandchildren, Rosaline and Jacqueline Nilles, Erika Larson, and Zayden Smith; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Ray loved all his family and friends and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

The Funeral Service for Mr. Larson will be Saturday, January 4, 2014, at 12:00 O'clock noon at the King Funeral Home with Father Thomas Bolster officiating. Interment will be in Hart Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday one hour prior to the service. The family requests that any memorials be directed to American Legion Post 234, Hart, MI 49420, the Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420, or the Oceana County Medical Care Facility, 701 E. Main St. Hart, MI 49420. To send flowers or a sympathy card, please use the Expressions of Sympathy link to the left.