Robert "Bob" Larkin

1936 - 2013

Robert "Bob" Larkin obituary, 1936-2013, Westlake Village, CA

BORN

1936

DIED

2013

FUNERAL HOME

Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park, Mortuary & Crematory

5600 Lindero Canyon Road

Thousand Oaks, California

Robert Larkin Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 22, 2013.

Donations in Bob's honor can be made to: The American Heart Association, American Cancer Society and The Boys and Girls Club of Simi Valley.


Robert J. Larkin "Bob" passed away suddenly, but peacefully, sitting in his patio garden on Saturday, January 19th, 2013, of a heart attack. His family and many friends are heartbroken at the sudden loss of a man who lived a life of love and service to his family, community and country. He was 76.

Bob was born in Merna, Illinois on May 1, 1936, one of 10 siblings. After completing high school, he proudly served four years in the US Air Force. Stationed in Japan, he learned to speak fluent Japanese. After his service, he worked for Philco, which took him to 29 countries. Those experiences created in him a life-long love of travel and language.

Bob met wife Judy Glynn in Chicago and married her in her hometown of Galway, Ireland in 1961. In 1968, they settled in Simi Valley, California with their four children. He became an agent for State Farm Insurance. He earned several achievement and excellence awards during what would be a 44-year career as an agency owner. He was proud of attaining an Associate of Arts degree from Moorpark College, even while building his business and raising a family. On Sundays, Bob took his young children to explore parks around Ventura County. Summers included RV trips to the redwood forests, Monument Valley, the wild Oregon beaches, and north to Vancouver.

Bob became involved in local and state politics, serving as President of the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, and on the Parks Board. He was instrumental in the creation of the 33-acre Rancho Simi Community Park. He was in the Knights of Columbus, Rotary Club, and involved in numerous business associations, and charities. A favorite was the Simi Valley Boys and Girls Club. Bob became active in the California Republican Party. It was his lifelong passion. His enthusiasm was legendary. He had many treasured relationships among his political friends. He served as President of the California Congress of Republicans, he chaired the Ventura County Republican Central Committee, and had even attended a luncheon of the Republican Women's Federated luncheon on Saturday before he passed. He ran for State Assembly in 1996 and 2004.

In 2003, after 42 years of marriage and raising their children, Bob and Judy divorced. He found love again "on the back nine", with Donna Graen, a childhood friend with whom he was reunited at a school reunion in Illinois. The spark was immediate and obvious to everyone who knew them. She shared his love of politics, golf, travel, and entertaining family and friends as often as possible. They married on June 13th, 2004 at the Firestone Winery and Estate in Santa Inez Valley, California, and shared 81/2 years of joy until he passed.

Bob loved walking and bike rides with Donna and their dog, Gidget near their home in Westlake Village, CA. His most recent service position was on the board of his homeowner's association. His tomato garden was famous. He wrote poems for family and friends. He was a crooner who never passed up a karaoke opportunity! His daughters and grandchildren inherited his voice, and he was very proud of that fact. Bob called his family regularly, and he and Donna visited them often. To them, he was "Pop Pop". He was sentimental and romantic, intelligent and a great storyteller, as well as a history buff.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jerome and Sadie, and siblings Betty, Dick and Tom Larkin. He is survived by his wife Donna Graen Larkin. His children are Kathleen "Kate" Larkin and her fiancé Marcus Dancer of San Francisco, Mary Larkin Ingber, husband Dr. Craig Ingber and granddaughter Devon Ingber of Valencia, CA. His son Robert "Rob" Larkin, Jr., wife Angie Ravaioli-Larkin and grandchildren Brittney and Braeden Larkin of Keller, TX. And son Toby Larkin of Anthem, AZ. Bob's surviving siblings are: Jerry Larkin, Michael Larkin, Larry Larkin, Joan Reeves, Mary Shadowens and Alice Larkin

His Bonus children and Grandchildren: Tamra Presley Weiss, Husband Jack and Grandchildren Samuel Weiss and Alison Weiss of Chicago, IL and Christopher Presley of Chattanooga, TN from Donna's previous marriage.

There is a public viewing on Saturday(1/26/13) from 3-5pm, followed by a celebration of his life at the Westlake Village Inn at 6pm. The funeral for family and close friends is Sunday (1/27/13) at 11am.

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Not sure what to say?

December 1, 2014

Brenda Cohen

The holiday's are upon us and we miss you dearly! We hear a heavenly voice from above; it must be yours! Keep singing!xoxoxo

November 30, 2014

Thanksgiving 2014 My second since you left. Missing you lots. With all my Love
Donna

March 21, 2013

Diane Hedding

I am truly saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was a warm and caring man who always made me feel comfortable when I would drop in to his office. Although I did not know Bob well, I will remember him as an example of a true gentleman and a gentle soul. My condolences to you Donna and to all Bob's family and friends.

March 13, 2013

Fred Lundgren

Bob was a gentleman and for over 30 years, a friend. I have fond memories of his sense of humor and quick grin. It was truly a pleasure to know him.

March 5, 2013

Mark McDonald

I have nothing but the warmest memories of my friend Bob Larkin. Always friendly, always positive, always giving -- he was a genuinely classy and authentically good person. I'll never forget the days he would take me golfing in Westlake, always giving me golf tips and helping me work on my game. I'm very grateful that our paths crossed and that I was blessed with his friendship.

February 23, 2013

Tim Riley

I wanted to say to the whole Larkin family,"I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Just wanted to say Thank You Bob for all the good conversations about golf n life in general. You're the only man I knew that had a picture taken w/the last several presidents. :) I enjoyed popping in on u once in awhile for the last 12 yrs. Your husband, father, friend was one of favorite customers. He will definately be missed by all. Take care of yourselves, and I know Bob's on the 1st tee watching over u all still. With all my condolences, Hit em straight Bob,
Ur favorite and only UPS man,

February 19, 2013

Deb Morris

Bob's passing has left a hole in our world.... He'll be so missed here and looked forward to meeting in heaven!!!
Love,
Deb

Posted by Deb Morris

February 15, 2013

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Larkin, and his family.

Bob was a true gentleman, polite, courteous, always professional, and possessed a great sense of humor.

It was a pleasure to know him!

David Elliott
U.S. Postal Service (Ret)
Simi Valley, California

February 8, 2013

Sheri S

I was shocked and saddened to receive a letter in the mail from State Farm informing me of Bob's passing. Bob was my agent for nearly 20 years. Two years ago, he gave my first born daughter his "beginner's driving" speech to save me $100 on my policy. Bob was always so kind to me. He will be missed.

February 6, 2013

Patricia K.-D.

Dear Bob, Thank You for making Donna Happy, and all you met along the way.
You two were a GREAT couple. Always welcoming and ALWAYS making with the "Irish Hospitality". Donna WILL miss you, and indeed so many people will, but you have left some Good Memories and we all know, you were never "Wheel Chair Material". "Fast Out" is a gift, see you at the next Great Party.
Love and Every Good Wish,
Patricia

February 5, 2013

To Bob's Family & Friends -
We were saddened to learn today of Bob's passing. He has been our agent for approximately 30 years, and even when we moved from the Simi area, we kept him as our agent. We offer our condolences and celebrate a life well-lived, right up until the end.
- Ron & Donna Bailey

February 4, 2013

Angela Constable

I was out of town and missed the announcement of Bob's passing. I am so sorry to hear of the death of one of Simi's truly great citizens. Bob was a friend first and a State Farm agent second. He was our family agent for over 30 years and we always felt we were his most important client, and I am sure he made everyone feel. I will miss him so much. My prayers to the family. Angela Constable

February 4, 2013

David Laury

Bob was the best agent I ever had. He was so good to me and my family for over 30 years..You will be missed my friend. It is good to know he with with the Lord. All my prayers to Bob and his family. God Bless you all.

David Laury Sr. & Family

February 3, 2013

Our condolences to the family of Bob Larkin. We had the pleasure of enjoying Bob as our insurance agent for over 38 years and just spoke to him the week before his passing. We were sharing camping stories and laughing which was the norm when talking with Bob. He was so much more than our agent and will be missed not only by our family, but the community of Simi Valley.
Rick & Teri Brotherton

February 3, 2013

Our condolences to the family of Bob. Larkin. We had the pleasure of knowing Bob and enjoying him as our insurance agent for almost 39 years. We spoke just the week before he passed and were sharing camping stories. He was so much more than our agent and will be missed by not only our family but the entire community of Simi Valley.

February 1, 2013

J Pena

Bob was a good friend of mine. We followed each others lives, it's ups and its down. I was happy when he met Donna, she made him very happy. He was such a romantic and a lover of life. I will miss him.

February 1, 2013

SHARON & CHARLES MARQUEZ

Bob had been our insurance agent for many years. We moved to Simi Valley in 1971, and he handled all of our insurance affairs for our home and cars for that time. He will been sorely missed by the community and his many friends and clients. He was always such a nice man who was always so personable and had such a good sense of humor. Our deepest sympathies to his wife and family.

February 1, 2013

Bob was a wonderful friend to us all. He was talented, charming and clever. As an enthusiastic promoter of women in politics, he reminded us that we could "make a difference." He shared information and opportunities which is rare. Bob was a gem. His local republican party was fashioned in his image; generous, open, inclusive and exciting. We will miss him but remember his heart and his great ideas. Beverly Benton

January 31, 2013

Our sincere condolences to Bob's family.
Kaaren and Dennis Kneff

January 31, 2013

Celia Vigil

How saddened I was to learn of Bob's passing . . . as an insurance agent he was delightful to work with . . . and on occasion he would end our conversation with him reading one of his poems . . . I ALWAYS had a smile on my face when I spoke with Bob . . .

January 31, 2013

Nancy Cusey

Donna:
May your heart be filled with lovely memories.

January 30, 2013

Ted Bayouth

Dear Donna,

Nancy and I are so very sorry for your loss. I hope we can see you in the weeks to come. Ted & Nancy Bayouth

January 29, 2013

Pam Corradi

Donna, I am looking forward to seeing you soon and remembering the wonderful life that is Bob. I know you miss him very much. Luv.

January 28, 2013

Michael Ireland

Kate and Piglet:
My condolences on Bob's passing. Kate, please give me a call or email, I'd like to catch up with you.
[email protected]

January 28, 2013

damien saint jacskon
says thanks for my atlas. Many road trips are a waiting...
Cheers!

January 27, 2013

Judy Symcox

My Dear Donna,
Oh, the memories...the CCR and CRP meetings, private pow-wows, and conventions...some good, some not so! Nobody tried harder than Bob and Howard to fix the 'elephant in the room'. Sadly, with the scary talkers, it's as bad as ever.
There are only fabulous memories of our annual weekends at Firestone's ranch with our 'special friends'. The most unique was your wedding weekend.. what a beautiful couple! As I recall, Bob sang a song for the ceremony which he had written for you and the wedding. He had a wide range of talents.
I'm sorry you didn't make the Monterey 2011 gathering..I was looking forward to seeing you two.
What a beautiful obituary and tribute to a life well lived.
My love and sympathy to you, Donna.

January 27, 2013

Al, Sharon, Scott & Eric Church

Whatsoever soothes you spirit, comforts your soul and brings you peace that is what is wished for you at this difficult time.
Kathleen, Mary, Rob and Toby, our sincere and heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dad. We go back a long time.
Most sincerely to all the Larkin family.

January 26, 2013

Terry Adkins

Please accept our sincere condolences. We thought of Bob as a very professional and caring agent for our family.

January 26, 2013

Donna, Kate, Mary, Rob, and Toby. Sometimes there are no words to say how we feel. Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you today and the coming days. Bob, older brother, you will be missed. I am for ever grateful for your lesson in how to tuck in a shirt!
Jerry & Diane Larkin (Elkhart, IN)

January 26, 2013

Howard Rogo

Howard and Kitty Rogo, Palm Desert He's joined with many Simi Valley Rotarians

January 26, 2013

Donna Graen Larkin

With All My Love to you. Hugs and kisses.
Donna

January 26, 2013

To Donna and the rest of Bob's family.
I know that you will miss him so very much.
I will too and remember the hours we shared on a golf course and
when he was my practice baseball catcher. We shared many happy
hours.
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.

Larry Larkin Georgetown, TX

January 26, 2013

Gloria & Bill Heller

Our loss of Bob on earth will be an addition to God's choir. Our sympathy to all who had the privilege of knowing Bob. Donna, so glad we had the opportunity to meet you last year during our night out at Jim's Steak House with some of the Larkin family in Bloomington. Bob told me that night that he always loved and admired my dad, his uncle. There wasn't anyone who didn't return that love and admiration to Bob. A prince among men to his family, his country, his friends, his job, and his "roots." RIP cousin.

January 25, 2013

Wendy Wilcox-Elwell

Words do an injustice in explaining how much you will miss Bob. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

January 25, 2013

Jeff & Kari Stokes

Our hearts go out to Bob's family. We have been fortunate to have known Bob for over 30 years. He has been our State Farm Agent all of that time. Bob always had that contagious smile on his face. We remember the days when Bob would come to our home, sit at our kitchen table, and share a cup of coffee while he explained our insurance policies. We always trusted Bob completely with our insurance business. We will surely miss this wonderful and kind man. He was truly an asset to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

January 25, 2013

Ed & Alice Brassil

Rest in peace.
Ed & Alice Brassil & Family

January 24, 2013

Brenda & Norman Cohen

Dear Friend
I am blessed that we found each other again after many years apart and knowing you found such great love with Bob is truly a blessing from God. Even though I only met Bob on January 11th we had such a connection and it felt like I had known him forever. He shared so many things with me such as his Republican video, things about his children and grandchildren, how you both met, your wedding, and how much he loved and cherished you. Your love and relationship was one to Admire. Lastly, I can't forget the stories about Gidget and all of the tricks that Bob taught her. My heart and prayers are with you Donna through this most difficult time. May The Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Much Love,
Brenda Cohen

January 24, 2013

Donna,
I was so sad for you when Nancy told me of your beloved Bob's passing. I know how very happy you have been with him. I can only pray for you and send love, and hope that you have family and friends that will make things easier for you at this time. I hope having mom there helps you through this. I will be thinking of you and praying for you and your family. Love to you......Keri Wenger

January 24, 2013

Polly Malven

My best Karaoke Buddy. Looking forward to our next duet. I know it will be heavenly.

May God Bless you

Polly

January 24, 2013

GLORIA WALKER

TO THE FAMILY OF A SIMI VALLEY CITIZEN WITH A SPOTLESS REPUTATION! HE DID HIS PART TO MAKE VENTURA COUNTY A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE.
GARY AND GLORIA WALKRT

January 24, 2013

Michael and I are terribly distressed and saddened to learn of the death of Bob. Donna we know how much you loved Bob and your beautiful life together. We remember with fondness your wedding dance at the Firestone Winery. Please accept our most sincere condolences for your loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carole and Michael R. A. Wade
Newport Beach, California

January 24, 2013

Tonie Valdez

Bob was a good Rotarian and friend.

January 24, 2013

Kris Paden

My condolences to Donna and the rest of Bob's family. It was nice seeing you two together in your home and I know he will be missed by many in his family and in the community. -Kris Paden

January 24, 2013

Betty Presley

Donna I only met Bob one time when we were together in Chicago, what a neat time we had. Wished we could have played a round of golf. Thinking of you.

January 24, 2013

Mary Kramer Ph.D.

Bob was a true friend and an extraordinary community Leader –he will be missed by all!

January 24, 2013

Kristi Huse

Donna, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

January 23, 2013

Bick & George Meier

Bicky & George Meier,
Donna how we loved Bob and wish we could be with you now. Love you
Bick & George

January 23, 2013

Steve and Diana Wheeler

When Bob and Donna were married, we were pleased to welcome him into our family. We enjoyed getting to know Bob while attending Donna's grandson, Sam Weiss', Bar Mitzvah. What a nice man! May God strengthen Bob's family with wonderful memories and with the prayers of those whose lives he touched.
In sympathy and love,
Steve and Diana Wheeler(Normal, IL)

January 23, 2013

Sandy Larkin-Boyd

We will miss you Uncle Bob. I will miss your poems at our family reunions. Prayers of comfort to Donna, Kate, Mary, Rob, Toby and your families. May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. "May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand."

January 23, 2013

Nancy Miller

Remembering Bob, Mike and their siblings from our school days together at Downs, IL and many reunions since. The family can tell great stories about their childhood, always hilarious. They are a large and joyous group, loved by all. May your love for each other carry you through this time of loss and recall all the good times with a smile. Nancy Miller, Bloomington, IL

January 23, 2013

Wendy P.

Bob was always a cheerful voice on the phone when I would call the office. He was a concerned and helpful man. I am very sorry for the loss of this man of integrity and humanitarianism.

January 23, 2013

Linda Romine Bourret

When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

January 23, 2013

We have lost a great friend and patriot. I will cherish my memories of Bob - we met at a Republican convention in the 1980's! I served as his 'secretary' when he ran for the Assembly - what great times we had! Donna, my prayers and thoughts are with you and the rest of Bob's wonderful family. May you all be blessed with the time and memories you shared with a most wonderful man!!!! Pam Corradi, Burbank

January 23, 2013

Ron Romine

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

January 23, 2013

MIKE LARKIN

IT SEEMS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY I FLEW TO LAX, RENTED A CAR AND DROVE TO SANTA BARBARA AND THE FIRESTONE WINERY FOR A WEDDING: BOB LARKIN AND DONNA GRAEN, BOTH FROM DOWNS, IL, THE THEME WAS WESTERN DRESS. BOB WAS HAPPIER THAN I HAD SEEN HIM IN A LONG TIME. DONNA WAS GOOD FOR HIM! HIS FINAL NINE YEARS WERE HAPPY BUT FAR TOO SHORT. BROTHER MIKE

January 23, 2013

American Heart Association

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

January 22, 2013

SHEILA SPENCE

It is Monday morning and I am greeted by Bob at the office with a big smile & a Good Morning. And again on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. He was there for only shy of my two years & I miss him. Rest in peace my Sunshine.

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