James Larson

James “Jim” Edward Larson, 72, of Billings, Montana passed away Friday, December 2nd, 2022 at his home due to health complications. Jim is survived by his three sons, Paul, Nathan, and Jeremy (Ashton), and his grandson Alec. He is preceded in death by his fellow soldiers in the Vietnam War, his parents Blanche and Rudolph; and his wife of 36 years Sharon, whom he mourned greatly.

Jim was born in Billings, MT on January 14th, 1950. He was raised in a good, religious family that kept strong ties with the American Lutheran Church. He was an acolyte when he was a child and became the first head acolyte at his church. His hobbies included anything in the outdoors; fishing, hiking, hunting, and just being out in nature. This led to him joining the Boy Scouts and beyond; serving as the Committee Chairman and Roundtable Commissioner when his own sons were in the Scouts. He joined the Navy to fight in the Vietnam War in which he served bravely for his country. He returned home after sustaining injuries during combat, earning five medals, and was honorably discharged. He attended college at Montana State Eastern and volunteered at the YMCA to teach swim lessons. After his discharge from the Navy, he met the love of his life Sharon Lynn Moore while skiing, and they were married on April 16, 1977. He and Sharon had three boys: Paul, Nathan, and Jeremy. He wasn't afraid to work hard for a living and took many jobs over the years including railroad work, selling AT&T phones, and designing kitchens which was his passion. Jim was very involved in his community and served on several committees, including the Yellowstone Leaders, Home Builders, and the Billings Area Chamber of Commerce. He eventually retired but still continued to be active with home improvement projects and was very active with the VFW where he held several positions.

Jim's personality was one of a kind and many would describe him as kind, generous, faithful, and always cracking jokes with his great sense of humor. He was a handyman whose vast knowledge of past work with kitchens brought many D.I.Y. projects around the house. His wife of 36 years Sharon preceded him in death, and he mourned her greatly. His sons Paul, Nathan, and Jeremy (Ashton) and grandson Alec survive him in his death.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 9th, 2022, at American Lutheran Church at 5 Lewis Ave Billings, MT at 1:00 PM. Burial at Sunset Memorial Cemetery including full military honors. A reception will follow at 3:15 PM at VFW Post #6774 at 637 Anchor Ave Billings, MT. Memorials may be sent to 1124 North 24th St. Billings, MT in lieu of flowers.