Buzz Larson
Royal “Buzz” Larson II passed away on April 17, 2023, after a debilitating struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Royal was born in Taunton, Massachusetts, on November 30, 1935, to Royal and Serie (Lawson) Larson. A graduate of Manlius Military Academy of New York and Norwich University of Vermont, Royal rose to the rank of Captain in the US Army during service from 1959 to 1965. He enjoyed playing golf, contract bridge, and watching UCONN women’s basketball.
Buzz’s ability to never forget a name or a face served him well in his career in sales, but what he did in his off time is what made him remarkable. Royal was a tireless promoter and fundraiser for the Washington Draft Horse and Mule Association. He served as the association president and board member, participating in wagon trains, trail rides, and fair exhibitions throughout the Northwest. Buzz was one of the founders of the Seattle-based Forgotten Children’s Fund and a member of the board of directors from its inception. Thousands of deserving Pacific Northwest Children came to believe in Santa Claus due to the untold hours Buzz committed over more than 40 years each Christmas season. He amassed jackets, blankets, toys, and food for distribution on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Buzz’s giving back continued beyond Christmas. As a board member of the all-volunteer M-Bar-C Ranch on Whidbey Island, in the summer, you would find Buzz in his blue denim overalls, deftly in control of a team of horses pulling a wagon load of challenged kids with smiling faces.
Buzz will be greatly missed by his daughter Christine Armstrong, his grandson Robert Armstrong, his step-daughter Roberta Katers, and his niece Deborah Karsmarski. Royal “Buzz” Larson was a decorated military veteran and a selfless leader who gave much back to his nation and community. He will be dearly missed by all he touched. Memorial donations can be made to The Forgotten Children’s Fund, PO Box 9936, Seattle, WA 98109. Web:
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