Obituary
Don Larson died in Helena Jan. 1
Pub Date: 2/1/2006
By Paul F. Vang
Donald W. (Don) Larson, a long-time Helena businessman and Montana Tavern Association leader, died January 1, 2006 at age 83.
Don was a life-long resident of the Helena area who served with distinction in the U. S. Navy during World War II.
Don married Ruth Jorgenson in 1942, and after returning to civilian life joined his father-law, Fred Jorgenson, and brothers-in-law Chuck Jorgenson and Calvin Rush in opening Jorgenson s Locker and Catering Service on Last Chance Gulch.
They later opened Jorgenson s Restaurant which they developed into a Helena landmark and a favorite watering hole of the Legislature. He retired in 1987 after selling the business to Steve and Barb Morris.
Don was active in many community organizations, including the Exchange Club, Elks and Helena Chamber of Commerce, serving as Chamber president. He was a director at First Security Bank.
Don was president of the Montana Tavern Association from 1966 to 1969, and continued as chairman of the Board until 1980. At the national level, he held offices with the National Licensed Beverage Association, and was president 1984-1986.
Don is survived by his wife, Ruth, four children, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Funeral services were held in Helena on January 6, 2006, and he was buried with military honors at the Montana State Veteran s Cemetery.
Memorials in Don s name are suggested to the Cancer Treatment Center, c/o St. Peter s Hospital, 2475 Broadway, Helena MT 59601, or the George and Edna Larson Bell Tower Maintenance Fund, c/o St. Mary s Catholic Church, 1700 Missoula Ave, Helena MT 59601.