Kirk Thomas Augustine Denely “Tom” Larson died on May 7, 2009 at the Regina General Hospital. Tom was born January 26, 1948 in Kenora, Ontario. Predeceased by his parents Rev. and Mrs. Nels Theodore Larson, he will be sadly missed by his sisters and brothers: Dorellen (Art) Bakke – Assiniboia, SK; Larcia (Maury) Latimer – Grand Blanc, Michigan; Carline (Fred) Brook – Portage La Prairie, MB; Daniel ((Darlene) – Lincolnshire, Illinois; and Dawn-Nica (Fred) Mathieson – Moose Jaw, SK; Daryl (Donna) – Flinchburg, Massachusetts; Adriel – Bengough, SK; Cadmar (April) – Vancouver, BC; and Keil – Chicago, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. Tom graduated from Thom Collegiate and furthered his education at the University of Regina. He taught in Avonlea, and worked for the John Howard Society in Edmonton before moving to Chicago to be closer to his parents. He taught at Orr High School, an inner city school and then later worked at the Chicago Board Office until his retirement. With his love of chess, Tom saw the potential to encourage students to learn math skills, along with chess skills. What started as a way to help students learn math and concentration quickly turned into something more with a group of students going on to win city, state and competing as finalists at Nationals. His love of chess was such a big part of him that he also started a neighbourhood chess club that met regularly on Saturdays, for anyone who wanted to come. Tom retired to Moose Jaw where he enjoyed living at the Bentley. The family would like to thank the staff at the Moose Jaw Union Hospital, Regina General, Wascana Rehab, and Providence Place for their wonderful care. A Celebration of Tom’s life will be held at W.J.Jones & Son Chapel on Saturday May 16, 2009 at 2:00 pm. Pastor Dennis Fingas will officiate. Tom will be buried at a later date in Chicago. A visitation will be held on Friday evening 7 – 9 pm at the Funeral Home. Memorials to the Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation, Box 1074, Northbrook, IL., 60065, would be appreciated. (www.renknights@aol.com). In living memory of Tom, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W. J. Jones & Son Funeral Home. Please sign the memorial register book at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries).
Dana Smith Funeral Director