Arthur L Larson, Jr., 85, died June 3, 2015, after battling colon cancer. He was born in Rhinelander June 8, 1929 to Arthur Sr. and Edna (Sharpe) Larson. He lived in Rhinelander until 1948 when he enlisted in the Air Force. He spent 21 years in the Air Force as an airplane mechanic. He was stationed in Japan and Iceland as well the United States.

In 1955 he married the former Betty Caulk. After his retirement from the Air Force he went to work for the US Postal Service in Norfolk, VA for 20 years. After retiring from the Postal Service he returned to Rhinelander. He still could not fully retire as he then drove over the road semi-truck for a number of years before fully retiring. He was a life-long train enthusiast, both model and real. He was an avid coin and stamp collector. Art enjoyed playing cribbage, pinochle and sheepshead several times a week. He could also be found playing bingo the days he wasn’t playing cards. His very favorite activity was playing Santa, a role he was born to play. Many parents of young children acting out in public were grateful when he simply told the offender he was watching and knew when they were naughty or nice. Children came to him on the street often to ask him if he was real.

He is survived by his brothers, Oliver (Beverly) Larson of Albuquerque, NM, and Ralph Larson of Rhinelander, niece Sharon Larson (Mark Naniot) and niece Trish (John) Fisher of Rhinelander, nephew John (Ann) Terzynski of Oshkosh, niece Lori (Steve) Williams of Alexandria, VA, nephew Doug (Corrine) Larson of Livermore, CA, several great nieces and nephews and special friends Darlene & Emma Stingall of VA.

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty, his daughter Lynn Larson Cook, his parents, his sister, Alcena Terzynski, his niece Susan Terzynski.

According to his wishes there will be no funeral services. The family wishes to thank the staff at Ministry Hospice and Seasons of Life for all their kindness and help. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Wild Instincts, 4621 Apperson Dr, Rhinelander, 54501. You may leave your private condolences for the Larson family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is helping the Larson family with the arrangements.