On Tuesday, October 23, 2012, Sheridan, Wyoming lost one of its cowboys. Charles Raymond Larsen left the land that he loved doing just what he loved to do…tending to it and its creatures. While moving his last herd, Charlie had his last breath of Wyoming air while sitting atop of his horse. Charlie left us with his boots on.

Charlie was born to Annabel and Nels Larsen in 1944. He and his two brothers, Fred and Harry, grew up on Dutch Creek. Sheridan County knew the Larsen boys well and many stories still circulate causing laughter to fill the air.

Charlie joined the Navy in 1961 and served four years aboard the U.S.S. Roosevelt.

In 1981, Charlie married Kathleen Holt. The two of them were joined by their first son, Tony, and later the twins, Wade and Lane. Charlie and Kathy raised the boys to be hard-working, respectful, and good-hearted. They taught them to be humble men with dignity. They all spent many hours together moving cows, building fences, farming, working cattle, working on machines and stacking hay. Although the days were long, the memories are now priceless.

In the last five years, Charlie and Kathy have been blessed with three grandchildren: Will, Luke, and Kenadie. The kids loved joking with their Grandpa and Charlie took special pride in spending time with each of them. And they especially loved when Grandpa Charlie would give them TootsiePop suckers! Charlie found joy in helping other people and especially liked to see his grandkids' faces light up.

Charlie will always be remembered around these parts, for always having a smile on his face with a story to tell. Charlie was a stranger to no one, and a friend to all. As Wyoming and Montana brand inspector, everyone involved in livestock had the pleasure to know him. In 2005, Charlie was honored as the State Brand Inspector for Montana. Charlie loved the country life and said once that being "out here" is where "I'm closest to the Big Guy". Beyond his family and friends, Charlie had several special horses and dogs throughout the years who accompanied him wherever his day would take him.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Kathy; his sons, Tony, Lane, and Wade (Ali); his grandchildren, Will, Luke, and Kenadie; and his brother, Fred (Wendy).

He is preceded in death by his brother, Harry; his mother, Annabel; his father, Nels.

Charlie will be missed by all but his legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. His family appreciates your thoughts and prayers at this time. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 27 at 2:00 at the Sheridan Wesleyan Church followed by a graveside burial at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with full military honors. A reception will be held at C&K Equipment in the Commercial Park. Memorial donations may be written to The Charles Larsen Family, P.O. Box 531, Sheridan, WY to be established as an FFA scholarship fund.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com.

Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

SheridanMedia.com - October 26, 2012.