Jesse Robert Larsen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jesse Robert Larsen, who died peacefully at his home on November 19, 2025, in Twin Falls, Idaho. Jesse was born on May 16, 1942, in Ely, Nevada, to his loving parents, Harvey and Elizabeth “Beth” Larsen.

Jesse spent his childhood in Ely and, after graduating from high school, proudly served in the United States Navy. He enlisted in 1961 and served as a Teletype Repairman aboard the USS Richard B. Anderson. Stationed out of San Diego, he also spent time with his ship and crew in Yokosuka, Japan. Jesse was honorably discharged in 1965.

Prior to joining the Navy, Jesse met the love of his life, Earlene Shobe, in Elko, Nevada. They were married in 1961 and shared 62 devoted years together. Throughout their marriage, they lived in San Diego, Ely, and Winnemucca before settling in Wells, Nevada, where they raised their three children—Earl, Toni, and Danny. In 2013, Jesse and Earlene relocated to Twin Falls, Idaho.

Following his military service, Jesse began a long and dedicated career with the Union Pacific Railroad (formerly Western Pacific), from which he retired in 2003.

Jesse was a devoted and loving husband. After Earlene suffered a stroke in 2010, he faithfully cared for her until her passing in 2023. Their bond was deep and enduring, and he missed her dearly. Jesse honored Earlene’s commitment to her Catholic faith. He took great pride in showing others the quilts she lovingly made, and he loved visiting with others about her.

Jesse was a man of many interests and passions. He was an avid amateur (ham) radio operator and spent countless hours connecting with people around the world. He remained active in several ham radio organizations and continued communicating with his radio friends up until the day of his passing. His other hobbies included stamp collecting, astronomy, reading, and writing. Jesse was especially proud to have authored four books and was working on his fifth at the time of his death.

While living in Wells, Jesse delighted in decorating his home and property with elaborate Christmas light displays, often turning it into a friendly competition with his neighbors. He enjoyed bowling and golf and he treasured deer hunting trips with his sons, brother-in-law Ken, nephew Mark, and several other close friends. He also cherished daily coffee gatherings with his good friend Chuck.

Family meant everything to Jesse. He was immensely proud of his wife and children and found great joy in his grandson, Matthew, who brought him much happiness. Jesse shared a particularly close bond with his daughter, Toni; he was her rock and a constant source of strength, love, and comfort.

In recent years, Jesse rejoined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Twin Falls. He was grateful to be back and approached his service with purpose and dedication. He especially enjoyed monthly “empty nesters” dinners with neighbors, spending time with the missionaries, and most recently, serving weekly at the temple. He was a faithful and humble example to those around him.

Jesse was preceded in death by many loved ones who were waiting to welcome him home, including his beloved wife, Earlene; his sons, Dan and Earl; his parents; his brother, Dallas Larsen, and wife Jackie; his sisters, Francine Littledyke and husband Doyle, and Gay Lage and husband Bill; his brother-in-law Ken Dory; his sister-in-law Francine and husband Cliff; and nephews John Lage and Jon Ames.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Toni Price and Steve Price; his grandson, Matthew Larsen; his sister-in-law, Charlene Dory; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Our family is deeply grateful for the many wonderful people Jesse met and cherished during his years in Wells and Twin Falls. He was easy to love and will be remembered as a patient, kind, and gentle man.

A service in celebration of Jesse’s life will be held on Saturday, January 10, at the Harrison LDS Church building, 667 Harrison Street, Twin Falls, Idaho at 11 am with lunch served afterward. Following cremation, Jesse will be laid to rest beside his wife and sons in Elko, Nevada.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Northeastern Nevada Museum, 1515 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801 or Valley House Homeless Shelter, 507 Addison Avenue West, Twin Falls, ID 83301.