It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our loving son and brother, Earl Russell Sholey Larson, who has passed away at the age of 28 on Nov. 1, 2022. He was born on April 26, 1994. Some people struggle to function in a broken world, and for Earl that struggle manifested in addiction and mental illness. He perceived injustice strongly from a young age, and reserved his trust and respect for those who he sensed would have provided love and compassion for all beings. Earl was a resilient child who had a kind and loving heart. One way he showed it was by taking care of animals like his favorite cat, Cybal, and his sister’s dog, Trixie. His clever sense of humor constantly made people laugh and put them at ease. For as long as we can remember, he could very easily fill sketchbooks with elaborate works of art using only a pen and a highlighter. Creativity and wit colored everything he did, from writing to pottery.
“The moment that you left us, our heart was split in two: one side was filled with memories: the other side died with you. We often lay awake at night when the world is fast asleep, We take a walk down memory lane with tears upon our cheek. Remembering you is easy, we do it everyday: but missing you is a heartache that never goes away. We hold you tightly in our heart and there you will remain: life has gone on without you, but it will never be the same.”
Earl is survived by his mother, Tammy Sholey Larson, his father, Russell Larson, his sister, Cassy Sholey Larson, his brother-in-law, Michael Sowell, Grandmother Diane Sholey, Grandfather Gerald Larson, many aunts, uncles and cousins as well as numerous friends from all walks of life in Butte and Missoula, MT. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Earl R. Sholey, and his paternal grandmother, Elly Reys Larson.
A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the PATH Program, the Mobile Support Team.
Donations are made to the PATH Program via checks made out to Western Montana Mental Health Center, with PATH in the memo line. They can be mailed to Alex Cimperman at 1321 Wyoming St., Missoula, MT 59801. Cash or checks can be left with Chris Fellet at the same address.
Donations are made to the Mobile Support Team via checks made out to Missoula Fire Dept. with Mobile Support Team in the memo line. They can be mailed to 625 E. Pine St.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Earl.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Earl and his family.
Jodi Salcido says
Russ, Tammy, and Cassie I am so very sorry for the loss of Earl. My heart is broke for all of you. Although we didn’t see much of him as he got older I still remember how sweet he was. Sending prayers and love to all of you. Please let us know if we can do anything. Love you all
LESLEY RUTTER says
Russ, Tam and Cass,
My heart is broken for you all. What a beautiful tribute to Earl. I have so many precious memories of him as a little boy and young man. He will be deeply missed.
I love you all with all my heart and will hold you in my thoughts and prayers now and in the days to come.
Lesley Rutter
Earl’s Auntie from South Dakota
Carol Carol says
There are no words to heal your broken hearts and sadness u feel
Earl was one of a kind,in his own way.his kindness,the smile and his sketches will be missed.you are now in peace .Sadness in our hearts will never go away!! Love you all!
Breanna Biegler says
Russ, Tammy, Cassy,
This news absolutely breaks my heart. I have so many fond memories of hanging out with Earl and Cassy when we were younger. He was always so much fun to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Brenda Lane Conner says
I am so sorry for your loss Tammy and family. I didn’t have the honor of meeting Earl. I can empathize with you all and I will continually pray for peace for all of you. Lean on God and Jesus.
Becky Mattila says
Russ and Tammy I am so sorry to hear about Earl’s passing I will always remember him and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time 🙏🙏❤️❤️
Chris Chicoski Smith says
Tammy, Russ and family. I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Diane (Keogh) Fitzgerald says
Tammy, I am so sorry.
Bonnie says
Tammy and Russ, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know my thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Love, Bonnie
Mary says
Dear Larsons,
We are so sad to hear of Earls passing.
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort during this most difficult time. May you still feel of his love and presence in your lives. Hugs and condolences to each of you.
Lyle and Mary Winterton
Anonymous says
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Earl many years ago. He was such an inspiring person. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.