Melvin Larkin

Melvin Larkin, formerly of Harrisburg died Monday at Elder Health and Living in Springfield. Born May 4, 1925 in Bellfountain, Melvin was the son of Avery and Mabel (Hays) Larkin. He graduated from Monroe High School and earned his Bachelor of Education degree from Oregon State College. He received his Master’s in Education Administration from Oregon State University. He married Betty Rose Mapes in August of 1947. The couple moved to Harrisburg in 1952, where they raised their family. Mel began his career as a teacher and later served as a school superintendent. He was a man of many interests—leading an active lifestyle, and remaining physically fit throughout his life. He was an avid golfer and supporter of OSU sports, enjoyed gardening, playing cards and especially enjoyed any opportunity to get together with family. He was a member of the Monroe Alumni Association, Kappa Sigma Fraternity, Corvallis Elks and Director of the 4th of July Celebration in Harrisburg for 50 years. Mel was recently honored as the Grand Marshall of the Harrisburg Parade for his lengthy community service. He will be remembered fondly as the life of the party. Preceded in death by his wife of nearly 60 years, Betty Rose Larkin and his brother Clifford Larkin. Melvin is survived by his sister and brother in law Dorothy and Morris Silver of San Bruno, California; his brother Garth Larkin of Corvallis; daughter and son in law Jody and Mark Tuttle of Bend; son and daughter in law Scott and Kris Larkin of W. Richland, Washington; daughter and son in law Caralie and Wayne Gunderson of Eugene and son and daughter in law Kelly and Cathy Larkin of Gresham; six grand children Mary Jane Lanier, Kelly Larkin, Aaron Larkin, Ashly Maginnis, Wes Guderson and Kyle Larkin; 3 great grandchildren Jordan, Austin and Riley Lanier. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, September 18th the Harrisburg Christian Church 601 Smith St.. Private burial will be at Alpine Cemetery. Memorial Donations in Melvin’s name may be made to the Harrisburg Christian Church or the Harrisburg Area Museum 490 Smith St., Harrisburg, OR 97446.

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Melvin Larkin

May 4, 1925 - September 14, 2009