Wesley H. Larson 1927-2019

He was born Jan. 5, 1927, in Youngstown, the son of the late Albin and Jenny Anderson Larson.

He was a graduate of South High School and a proud member of its marching band where he played trumpet.

Wesley worked for over 45 years as a union pipe fitter with General Fireproofing and retired in 1989.

Wesley proudly served our country first in the U.S. Merchant Marines, where he traveled all over the world, and then with the U.S. Army. He served during World War II and the Korean Conflict stationed overseas as a mess cook — his famous saying being, “He never lost a man.” Wesley loved to tell stories about all the times when he served his country to his family and friends.

Swede will always be remembered and loved by his family and friends for his big laugh, sense of humor and quick wit.

He was a charter member of the First Covenant Church in Boardman, where he and his wife Shirley Mae were the first couple married in the church. Wesley was also a member of the Vasa Club, the Salvation Army and the Saxon Club, where he played in their bocce league.

Wesley had many passions in his life. He enjoyed fishing especially in Canada, playing pool and bocce, listening to big band music and rooting on his favorite teams, the Cleveland Indians and Green Bay Packers. Wesley also had a love for his “fur babies” and never missed any of his grandchildrens’ activities and sporting events.

He is survived by his three children, Karl A. Larson of Youngstown, Janyce E. (John A.) McGeary of Canfield and Kenneth P. (fiancee Nadia Ouellette) Larson of Leesburg, Va.; five grandchildren, Alexis (Sean) Doherty, Tyler W. and Erik P. Larson, John A. McGeary II and Jessica E. (fiance, Eddy Esmail) McGeary; and his beloved toy poodle, Queen Elsa Mae.

His wife, whom he adored, the former Shirley Mae Miller, whom he married May 29, 1954, died March 15, 2013.

Besides his parents and his wife, Wesley was preceded in death by a sister, Arlene Anderson; and two infant brothers, Karl and Elmer Larson.

Family and friends may pay their respects 10 to 10:50 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019 at Thompson Filicky Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Youngstown. There will be an 11 a.m. funeral service Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, at the funeral home, with the Rev. George Lee officiating.

Burial will be in Lake Park Cemetery in Youngstown.

On behalf of Wesley’s family, they would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the entire staff of the Woodlands at Austinwoods and Crossroads Hospice for all their care and compassion shown to them and Wesley throughout this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made in Wesley’s name to Animal Charities, 4140 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512.

Family and friends may visit www.Thompsonfh1932.com to view this obituary, sign the guest book or send condolences to Wesley’s family.

(special notice)