Donald Joseph Larkin

Donald Joseph Larkin (Don) died in Benicia, CA on August 9th, 2021 surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. He was 84 years old. Don was born in Seattle, WA. He was predeceased by his parents Beth and Don Larkin and son, Kevin Paul. He attended O’Dea High School and he earned his B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Seattle University. In 1959, he married Marilyn Jean Peterson of Auburn, WA. Don and Marilyn moved thirteen times during his long career and eventually settled in Benicia, CA, where they lived for the past forty years. Don had a very successful career as both a professionally licensed Nuclear and Chemical Engineer in California and in Washington State. As accomplished as Don was at work, he will always be known for his one true passion, his family. Don lived the quote, “One of the greatest things a father can do for his children is to love their mother.” He loved Marilyn and they had a wonderful sixty-two year love affair. Don had an unending reserve of energy that he devoted to his six children. Don was always there for his children, whether as a coach (seventeen years of youth sports), at family dinners, reading stories at bedtime, or encouraging them to pursue their passions. He was a positive, present, and caring force in his children’s lives until his last day. After retiring from Exxon, Don and Marilyn were ready to travel around the world. Travel they did, visiting fifty countries and territories. They also spent much of their time visiting their children and grandchildren scattered across the country. Don was a great friend, golf partner, and always had a warm smile for all. He enjoyed a good laugh and organizing fun activities for his kids, grandkids, and friends. Don was a man of faith and a forty-year member of Saint Dominic’s Parish in Benicia. Don is survived by his loving wife Marilyn, children Patrick (Mennette), Erin Foster (Bill), Colin (Denise), Ian (Nora), Duncan (Erin), and Christopher. He adored and cherished his seventeen grandchildren and wonderful extended family. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. Thursday at Passalacqua Funeral Chapel, Benicia followed by a Vigil service at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m Friday at St. Dominic’s Church, 475 East I Street, Benicia. Burial will be private.

Donald Joseph Larkin

February 4, 1937 - August 9, 2021