Larson, Charles “Chick”

Charles “Chick” Larson

January 27, 1948 – February 2, 2024

MIDDLETON – Charles “Chick” Larson was born on Jan. 27, 1948, and passed away Feb. 2, 2024.  An independent man who lived life on his own terms. Chick enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at 18 and served in Vietnam, participating in several events near the DMZ including at Camp JJ Carroll, Khe Sanh, and the Tet Attack at Cam Lo.  As a member of the 3rd Marine Division, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine, known as 2/9 “Hell in a Helmet,” he earned several awards for his service, only recently presented to him:  the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation.  He was also given foreign awards: Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 1960/device.

He attended Wisconsin School of Electronics and began his lifelong career in telecommunications and data networking. He followed his entrepreneurial spirit, building and growing a business in that field and working alongside his children for many years, ultimately handing the reins over to them.

Chick earned his Private Pilot Certificate working up to his commercial rating which led to many great adventures and conversations about which small plane was “the best!”

He cared deeply about other people and was proud of his volunteer work with Middleton Outreach Ministry and the Middleton Senior Center, donating wiring and telephones to the elderly in their homes.

The best part of his life and his greatest pride were his children and grandchildren; all of whom were present as he transitioned from this life. He loved his family deeply and they loved him. We have wonderful memories of our travels together to Playa del Carmen, Montana, Cabo San Lucas, and Niagara Falls. He has left us with so many stories and so much laughter; rest assured Chick, Dad, Grandpa, we will continue to share and treasure those memories.

Chick leaves behind his wife, Karen; his son, Michael (Angie), his son, Randy, his daughter, Pamela (Jason Stepanek), and his son Kristopher. He is further survived by his five beautiful grandchildren, Eden and Chloe Larson, Evan and Isla Vanko, and Alexandra Larson.  Additionally, he is survived by his extended family members; aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; his brother-in-law, Eric (Lori) Dalrymple; and his sister, Patricia Schott.