Much loved Washington Elementary School gym teacher Mike Larsen passed away at his home on Thursday, Jan. 7.   According to the Atlantic News Telegraph, Larsen was found a few minutes after 1 p.m. in the garage of his home on  Olive Street across from the Atlantic Middle School.

Mike Larsen had an impact on many of the students who attend AHS.  Senior Shelby Svoboda reflects, “I remember in second or third grade some wilderness people came to the school and brought a hawk and a boa constrictor and they asked Mr. Larsen to wear it because he was the biggest guy.   He did it, even though he hated snakes.”

Some students remember outings they had with him, such as junior Ethan Westering who worked with Larsen this summer.  Westering said he will remember fishing with Larsen at his pond.  “We grilled steak together on a boat.”

Freshman Logan Steffens remembers Larsen as a great teacher with a positive attitude.

Activities director and Vice Principal Josh Rassmussen said he will always remember, “Mike’s laugh, stories, and smile, every time you talked to him.  He was a true teacher, a true educator.”

According to St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, a funeral mass will be held at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church on Monday, Jan. 10, at 2:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be provided by Hockenberry Family Care.

The funeral luncheon will be held in the Commons area at Atlantic High School at 3:00 after the funeral service.

A visitation will be held in the Commons area of Atlantic High School on Sunday evening from 5-7, with Rosary following at 7:00, also at AHS.