Garrett Weyer Larsen

Garrett Weyer Larsen, 79, passed away at Virginia Mason Hospital, Seattle, on July 8, 2025, after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer. He was interred at Port Blakely Cemetery, Bainbridge Island on July 13, 2025. 

Of Norwegian heritage, he was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington, the oldest of three sons of Thor Larsen and Signe (Midtsatre) Larsen. His father was a Naval Commander, and encouraged his son to love the sea and sailing. Garrett’s years in scouting were the source of many stories of his youth on the Curtis, a Sea Scout boat. His mother was a school teacher and instilled a love of learning. A voracious reader, he had an abiding interest in so many subjects, and any and all automobiles, especially “Woodies.”

An excellent student, he went on to graduate in Architecture from the University of Washington. His talent for design led to a 50-year career in designing and building commercial structures, apartment complexes, homes in Washington, Oregon, and Texas, and schools in rural Alaska and remote Northwest locations. As the Principal of Larsen Architects, he was at his best when finding solutions to project problems, working with clients, and skilled trades. 

Traveling extensively in Europe, he loved the art, the people, and cultures. Always enthusiastic for new adventures, he would say, “Let’s do it!” He told great, enthralling stories of those adventures, and was often asked to tell a particular story again and again.

His abiding interest in the sea and boat design led to many years vacationing in Maui and sailing on Puget Sound, particularly the San Juan Islands. Those sailing trips were usually accompanied by friends, family, and the strains of rock ‘n roll. Singing with the music, his favorite lyric was often the Rolling Stones’ line, “You don’t always get what you want.”

He loved his family and friends fiercely, and supported them always. The mainstay of the entire family, he was generous and kind. Never critical, he would sometimes give direction by saying with a smile, “…maybe you want to think about that some more.” Garrett will be missed every day and remembered with love. 

He is survived by his wife, Dianna; Brothers Eric Larsen (Debby) and Arne Larsen (Mary); Sons Torin Larsen and Chad Hitchens; Daughters Phaidra Manns and Sarine Laird; Daughter-in-laws Rebecca Larsen and Shaunia Hitchens; Grandchildren Christina Laird, Amanda Laird, Jorde Hitchens, Benjamin Hitchens, Shayne Hitchens, and Anders Larsen.

A celebration of life will be held in the fall. Donations to the Virginia Mason Oncology Center in lieu of flowers are appreciated.

Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA