Carl N. “Barney” Larson, 71, passed away peacefully, Monday, August 9, 2010 after a brief and courageous battle with liver cancer, surrounded by his loving family.

    He was born on September 27, 1938, the son of Evelyn M. (Johnson) Dechario and the late Carl E. Larson. He leaves his wife and best friend of 50 years, Patricia M. (McCluskey) Larson; three sons: Robert Larson and his companion, Luz of Sutton, Steven Larson of Worcester and Scott Larson and his wife Morna of Millbury; his beloved daughter, Cheryl Mara of Shrewsbury and her companion Marco; grandchildren: Brian Larson of Shrewsbury and his companion Stephanie, Stephanie Livingstone and her husband Joshua of Beaufort, SC, Callie Sean Mara of Shrewsbury, Casey Lee Larson of Worcester, Amanda Jane Larson of Millbury and one great granddaughter, Alexis Marie Livingstone. In addition to his family, he leaves two sisters: Linda Johnson of Northbridge and Marilyn McKay and her husband Harold of Northbridge; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Richard and Phyllis McCluskey, Robert McCluskey, Tony and Bette Gregoriou, Rose McCluskey and Margaret McCluskey; many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends he dearly loved.

    Barney was proud to serve in the US Navy aboard the U.S.S. Salem CA-139, Flagship of the Sixth Fleet. He was employed for many years at Warner & Swazey and later Barrett Centrifugal.

    He was a longtime member and director of the Worcester Surfcasting Club, The U.S.S. Salem Association, VFW Southworks Post 3557, Singletary Rod & Gun Club, Greendale Retired Men’s Club. He was also a coach & manager for the Lou Gehrig Little League. His greatest joy was the outdoors and spending time at the Worcester Surfcasting Club on the Cape Cod Canal in Bourne. Barney was an accomplished hunter and fisherman; he loved most mentoring his skills to his family and friends. Most of all he loved being surrounded by his family and grandchildren.

    Visiting hours will be on Thursday, August 12 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at CALLAHAN & FAY BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 61 Myrtle St. Barney’s funeral service will be on Friday, August 13 at 1:00 PM at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 200 Greenwood St. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Flowers may be sent or contributions may be made to VNA Care & Hospice, 120 Thomas St., Worcester, MA 01608.