R.G. Larsen, 90, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 12, 2017, at home surrounded by his family. He was under the care of Aspen Hospice.

R.G. was born September 4, 1926, in the town of Monroe (Frogtown) Utah, to Vernon Roderick Larsen and Iva Leona Conder. R. G. was the middle child of five; Wallace, LaRue, Doone, and Ann.

His early childhood was spent in Annabelle, Utah, near Kanab. When R.G. was 6 the family moved to Shelley, Idaho. In school, he enjoyed playing basketball and track where he won many ribbons in high jump, broad jump, sprints, and relays. In the summer of 1943, R.G. met his future wife and soulmate, Lillian Ruth Young. R. G. graduated from Shelley High School in 1944. With World War II still going on, he enlisted in the Army Air Force and went directly into the service. He finished a specialized college program for the Air Force Cadet flight training; however, by this time his specialized college program was over, World War II was coming to an end and they no longer needed pilots. Subsequently R.G. completed basic training at Shepard Field in Texas, then received B-29 remote gunnery training at Lowery Field in Denver, Colorado. R. G. was receiving additional vaccines in preparation to be sent overseas to the Philippines, when orders came through to let all who had enlisted and volunteered for service be discharged from the service. He always felt fortunate for his circumstances and sorrow for those who had to be in harm's way.

On September 7, 1946, R.G. married his high school sweetheart, Lillian, at her parents' home. Lillian and R.G. were sealed in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on December 5, 1970. They were blessed with four children: Peggy, Kaleen, Craig and Brad. Recently in the fall of 2016, R.G. and Lillian celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Many family members throughout the country enjoyed visiting with R.G. and Lillian by video communication.

R.G. faithfully served in various callings in the LDS church; including many years as ward clerk of the Idaho Falls 16th Ward.

R.G. attended Montana State College, University of Utah and other special photography schools. In 1949, R.G. was hired by the Atomic Energy Commission, AEC, (later known as the INL site) as the 37th employee. He worked in security until 1952, when he was transferred and hired as a photographer to start up the photography department. While still working at the site, R.G. started a part time photography studio in Idaho Falls which became his full-time employment when he left his job at the site. In 1951, he expanded his photography studios to Blackfoot and Pocatello. R.G. enjoyed taking pictures of weddings, family groups, and portraits. R. G. retired from photography in 1982. In 1988, he purchased the Artists Colony Art and Frame Gallery. He expanded the art gallery and in 1993 sold the gallery and retired forever.

After retiring from photography, R.G. and Lillian enjoyed traveling together. Some of R.G.'s favorites were camping and fishing trips. R. G. and Lillian enjoyed packing up their motor home and searching for beautiful country and warm weather.

R.G. was preceded in death by his parents, Iva Conder and Vernon Larsen; sisters: LaRue, Doone, Ann; and his brother, Wallace. R.G. was the last surviving child.

R.G. was very proud of his growing family. He is survived by his dear wife, Lillian Ruth Larsen, 88 years old of Idaho Falls; four children: Peggy Grant, Kaleen Burke, Craig (Tammy) Larsen and Brad (Carol) Larsen; 10 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Aspen Hospice, especially Julie, Emily and Jasmine.

In keeping with dads wishes, private family services were held on Saturday, January 14, 2016 at Coltrin Mortuary. Burial was in the Taylor Cemetery.

The family would like to say thanks for all the kind thoughts, words, and messages that were shared.

Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com