Kim Jorgen Larsen

Kim Larsen September 23, 1955 to April 10, 2016 Kim’s final battle ended on the night of April 10th as his spirit left his weary body behind and this warrior journeyed on to Valhalla. Kim’s wish was to remain at home until the end of his life. He was at peace in his own bed with loving family and a close friend present to comfort him and witness his departure from this life. He never forgot his Viking heritage and fought his disease with the quiet fortitude of a warrior, thereby earning his entrance to the Norse warrior’s reward: Valhalla. Kim loved his wife of 35 years, Joanne, his children Amber (Mikael) and Mark, and his grandchildren Colton and Christian with the same quality of spirit, softened by a gentleness that grew even stronger in his later years. Other remaining loved ones are his mother Thyra, his sister Lotte (Billy); brothers- and sisters-in-law Werner, Kathy, Fran (Ernie), Janice, Michelle, Jim (Laurie). Kim had a special bond with his cousin Brian, a chosen brother, and Brian’s son Victor who was Kim’s godson. He also cared deeply for his many cherished relatives and friends in both Denmark and here in Canada. His father Jørgen, his granddaughter Freya, and his very close friend Mark Webber predeceased Kim. Kim was a generous, open-hearted man with a keen mind, a playful sense of humour and a joy for life that endeared him to people. He and Joanne shared a love of travel and of hosting friends and family. He had a deep passion for music and a love of good food, his Harley, and “footy,” all of which he delighted in sharing. He was a true and loyal friend. He looked forward to joining his “Breakfast Club” buddies every Saturday morning, visiting with friends over home-cooked meals or just getting together for cards or social events. He was a history buff, an avid reader who always had a book on the go by his bedside, and he enjoyed watching films of all genres. Once a year he had the pleasure of reconnecting with friends from all over as they came together to enjoy a weekend at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival. If the weather was good, the Harley would call to Kim and he could not resist going out for a ride, sometimes alone but often with friends who shared the passion. To the delight of many, he began experimenting with baking over the past few years and made some delicious birthday cakes, cinnamon buns, and other goodies. Kim also had a creative side and carved walking sticks for those who expressed an interest in having one. Kim was a member of local 488, spending his working life as a pipefitter/gasfitter. Leaving the tools behind, he later worked as a scheduler; project manager and construction manager for various large oil projects in Alberta. During his working years he developed many friendships that enriched his life. He was full of gratitude for the extraordinary gift of a liver transplant in 2012, giving him the opportunity to experience life on a new level after returning from death’s doorstep. The years he gained were appreciated and lived to the fullest. He felt blessed to have more time to develop a bond with his young grandsons whom he loved more than he thought possible. He looked forward to meeting his first granddaughter Freya, and the grief he experienced over her loss was beyond measure. He also met other transplant recipients and their partners with whom he could share this truly life-changing experience. Many deep connections with new friends were made at this time and treasured by Kim. Kim optimistically endured many medical interventions over the past 5 years and felt fortunate to have the wonderful care he did. Heartfelt thanks go out to all of the health professionals who were involved in his care, including Dr. Judy Cooney and her caring office staff; Dr. Vince Bain; Dr. Norman Kneteman; Dr. Mang Ma; Dr. Gerald Todd; Dr. Trent Dusang; Palliative Care Nursing Team (Lesley, Amy and Fred); Ryan Bullock, Pharmacist; Lab Technicians at Edmonton Clinic; Bonnie Woloschuk, University of Alberta Hospital: Liver Transplant Team & Post transplant coordinators Julianne and May; nursing staff on transplant ward 3G2; nursing staff on trauma unit 3F2; Patrick – Food Services 3G2/3F2; Jennifer Holman, Jon Ashmead and Amanda Perrott from Rehab Therapy Team; Dr. Karen Cogan. Kim often spoke of you with the highest regard. To all of the family and friends who called, visited, or supported us in any way during Kim’s illness, thank you so much for your kindness. Both Joanne and Kim felt uplifted by the unwavering love and caring that was so generously shared. A celebration of Kim’s life will take place at 1:30 pm on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at Cloverdale Community Hall, 9411 - 97 Ave., Edmonton, AB, T6C 4N4. Please send condolences to Serenity Funeral Service, 5311 91 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6E2 Edmonton, Alberta. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Canadian Transplant Association, Canadian Liver Foundation, or University of Alberta Hospital Foundation would be appreciated. In Kim’s memory, please consider registering to become an organ donor at https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Pages/OTDRHome.aspx.

Kim Jorgen Larsen

September 23, 1955 - April 10, 2016