Ernest Jay Larsen

Ernest “Jay” Larsen of Pocatello, Idaho passed away on January 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

The world was blessed the day Jay was born, May 26, 1948 to Glenn Larsen and Betty Zahm at Pocatello General Hospital. He attended St. Anthony Parochial school until 8th grade. He attended Hawthorne and Pocatello High School. He was a proud Pocatello Indian. Jay was a dedicated member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, where he served many years as an usher.

Jay met the love of his life, Susan Bell and they were married February 5, 1971. Nine months and five days later, they welcomed their son, Nels Jay Larsen. Three years later they welcomed their beautiful daughter Anna. Jay was the ultimate family man, deeply proud of his children and their families. He worked hard to provide for them and enjoyed a fulfilling life.

Jay’s career in the grocery industry began in junior high, and in 1974, he started working for the Union Pacific Railroad, where he remained until his retirement in 2005. In addition to his railroad work, he spent many years caring for his family and friends, and enjoyed ranching on his 8-acre property. Jay had a passion for collecting, particularly rusted iron. Together with Sue, he ran a business called Daze Gone Bye from 1997 to 2021, where they enjoyed antiquing. Jay also loved hunting, fishing, camping, and working on the “No Gotta Rancho” down Larsen Lane. He was a skilled gardener, known for sharing the fruits of his labor, including corn, tomatoes, and green beans. In his younger years, he enjoyed snowmobiling with family and friends and was an active participant in the Blue Heeler Horseshoe League.

Jay is survived by his loving and beautiful wife of 54 years, Sue; his son, Nels (Tori), and granddaughters Peyton Larsen and Mattie Lopez (Gabriel); his daughter Anna, and granddaughters Marie Cutler (Morgan), Isabella Cutler, and grandsons, Bryce and Micah Cutler; his ex-son-in-laws, Shane Cutler and Greg Price; two step-grandsons, Kaden Gonzales and Ethan Price; his sister, Cheryle Larsen; his brother, Larry Zahm (Nina). His sister-in-law Linda Egli joined Jay and Sue on the ranch, close family member/companion rancher, Mark Samuelson. His dogs Heidi and Belle as well as his cats Tom, Calico, Sherlock, and grand-cat Callie. No matter what he said he loved these animals and always had a special treat for them in his pocket. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Preceding him in death are his father Glenn Larsen, his mother and stepfather Betty and Howard Zahm, and brother, Farrell Larsen.

At his request no services will be conducted. The family will have a burial of ashes this spring at Norton Cemetery in McCammon, Idaho. The family will also have a Celebration of Life at the No Gotta Rancho when the weather warms up and his ’56 Chevy can be on display.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.