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A GoFundMe campaign has been established to honor the memory of John Larsen ’18 who recently passed away in his hometown of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Mr. Larsen was an environmental science and geography and earth science major whose friends say loved music, animals, and the outdoors. He was passionate about nature and had a knack for identifying trees and plants. The money raised will allow them to plant a tree in Carthage’s Alice Moody Chapin Arboretum in his memory.

Mr. Larsen was also known as a talented percussionist who was a member of the Carthage Wind Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and Drumline.

Professor James Ripley got to know Mr. Larsen during his freshman year at Carthage when he auditioned into the Wind Orchestra — one of a select few from that class.

“John taught us all a great lesson in being always ready to help each other, to be accepting of challenges, and to reflect the joy of living,” says Prof. Ripley. “He will always be with those he touched, especially those in the Carthage Wind Orchestra.”

A memorial service for Mr. Larsen was held July 29 in South Dakota.

Photo of John Larsen ?18 and friends, courtesy of GoFundMe campaign organizers. Photo of John Larsen ’18 and friends, courtesy of GoFundMe campaign organizers.