Larry Joe King

Larry Joe King, age 64, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2024. He was born on July 21, 1959, in SLC, Utah, to Larry and Kaye King. Larry's life was marked by his larger-than-life personality, evident in his roaring laughter that could be heard a mile away and his storytelling prowess. A friend to all, he was known for his accepting nature and his ability to entertain a room full of people and bring life to the party.

He started his career on Wall Street until the events of 9/11, losing many of his cohorts, inspired him to change careers to one where his talents could be used to help others. He ventured into education as a teacher and administrator. He had a gift for brilliance and retention and could make the most complex topics understandable. He became a gifted instructor and had the ability to reach the most laborious students. He could challenge your thinking with various points of view and was always open to a respectful debate and sharing knowledge.

A lifelong learner, Larry earned numerous degrees, certifications, and had a wide array of skill sets. He was affectionately nicknamed 'Scary Larry' and 'Scare Bear' due to his adventurous spirit and gentle personality. His love for travel took him around the world and across the nation. He was fascinated with the Russian people and intrigued by their culture, language, and history, spending time in Russia.

Larry's greatest joy was his family. He married Tekla Taylor, with whom he had two sons, Jarek and Zach. His recent trip to Miami with his boys to watch the Broncos was a cherished memory. He later married Hollee Nielsen and expanded his family to include three stepdaughters and four grandchildren.

Survived by his wife Hollee, sons Jarek and Zach, stepdaughters Laycee, Bobbie, and Jessica, grandchildren Trinitee, Adaleena, Tristen, and his sweet Lydia Jean, siblings Laura Parrish and Chance Parrish, nephew IkaIka Parrish, stepparents John and Sandy Parrish, and a large extended family. Predeceased by his parents Larry King and Kaye Woolley, and sister Cedene Parrish.

Larry's absence leaves a profound gap for all who knew him. He leaves a legacy of laughter, friendship, and love. Larry King was truly an amazing man whose spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. Thank you, Larry, for all the laughter, friendship, and love you gave to so many in your life. Heaven truly gained an amazing man, and if he could speak to us today, he would tell us, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."