Merl Lee Larson passed away at home on April 4, 2022 in Petaluma, Calif., surrounded by his loving family. He had been dealing with dementia and declining health for several years and had recently moved from Yuba City, Calif. to Petaluma to be closer to family members.

Merl was born to John and Lucile Larson in Haxtun on Aug. 7, 1939. In 1957 Merl graduated from Haxtun High School after serving as class president for all four years of high school. Merl played basketball, football and was a pole vaulter on the track team. He was an accomplished piano player at an early age as well as a...