Marlin Smith LarsenMarch 11, 1921 - September 4, 2015Marlin Smith Larsen passed away on September 4, 2015, at the age of 94 years. Marlin was born on March 11, 1921, in Logan, Utah, the son of James Nielsen and Luella Smith Larsen. He grew up in Wellsville and attended Floradell Elementary, Wellsville Junior High, and South Cache High School. He helped his father on their small farm, milking cows, threshing grain, and cleaning seed for local farmers. Marlin enjoyed playing softball and was shortstop when Wellsville First Ward won the all church tournament in 1951.He married Mary Juanita Wood of Mendon in the Logan Temple on July 23, 1943. Their children are Marlin Kent (Penny) Larsen of Wellsville, Jennifer (George) Archibeque of Petersen, and Zen (Misty) Larsen of Bountiful. There are nine grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. He has one brother, James (deceased), and two sisters, Velma Speth and Marie Elwood.Marlin served in the Army Medical Corps during World War II in England and France. He earned the rank of staff sergeant and was a certified physical trainer. After the war he attended Utah State University and graduated with a degree in mathematics and secondary education. His teaching career began at Lincoln Elementary in Hyrum followed by South Cache Junior High, Church College of Western Samoa, and Central Davis Junior High in Layton. He completed his master's degree in Educational Administration.As an active member of the LDS Church, Marlin served in many positions. His love of teaching led to many callings with the youth. He was a bishop in Layton 13th Ward and served on the high council. He was well liked and admired by his colleagues for his common sense, wisdom, and excellent teaching. Marlin was well loved by his students particularly in Samoa.After retiring from teaching Marlin and Juanita spent their winters in Santa Clara, Utah, and summers at their cabin in Rockport. He enjoyed his family, gardening, building projects, wildlife, and traveling to Mexico. They made their home in Morgan during the last few years.The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of George E. Wahlen Veterans' Home in Harrisville for their compassion and dedicated care over the past year.A graveside service will be held on Tuesday September 8, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mendon Cemetery with Military Rites. Services are under the direction of Nelson Funeral Home, Logan, Utah. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com.