Robert Frank Larabee

In Loving Memory of Robert Frank Larabee (1937-2025)

Robert Frank Larabee was bid sweet farewell by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren on January 23, 2025. He was 87 years old.

Born on October 19, 1937, in Springville, Utah to Frank Crawford and Juanita Dunn Larabee, Robert was a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, a devoted husband and father, and a good friend. He married the love of his life, Ila Kay Halladay, in 1956 and they were sealed in the Manti Temple. Together, they raised five children, Craig (Kathy) Larabee, Bryce (Kris) Larabee, Michele (Blake), Gilbert, Rush (Karen) Larabee, and Andrea (Brandon) Bezzant. They are blessed with 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. Robert is preceded in death by daughter-in-law Kathy and son Rush.

Robert’s 20-year military service career took him, and sometimes the family, to postings around the world, including Okinawa, Thailand, Washington DC, the Netherlands, Florida, Italy, and Montana before retiring from the US Air Force as a Senior Master Sargeant and returning home to make a life in Salt Lake City. He later worked at Tooele Army Depot.

Robert was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many capacities throughout his life including serving 20 years as an ordinance worker in the Jordan River Temple, counselor in the presidency of the Italy Rome Mission, and bishopric counselor. He loved serving alongside Ila as a missionary in the Italy Catalina Mission and as an Addiction Recovery Program group leader.

An enthusiastic hobbyist and collector, Robert’s many interests included tropical birds, antiques, nativities, and glassware. He could often be found reading the works of his favorite author, Louie Lamour.

Viewing will be held Fri, Jan 31, 6-8 PM at Memorial Murray Mortuary, 5850 So 900 E, Murray. Funeral services will be held on Sat, Feb 1, at 12:00 PM, preceded by an 11:00 AM viewing at the LDS Chapel, 4980 W 3285 S, West Valley City.