Mourning the death of Leif Arnold Larsen, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Harckham

A ceremonial tribute memorializes Leif Arnold Larsen for lifelong service, leadership, community involvement, faith, and family contributions in New York.

REFERRED TO FINANCE

Summary of Bill J 2243 (2025-2026, New York)

Purpose and intent

The bill is a Senate Resolution (S. No. 2243) authored by Senator Harckham to mourn and honor the life and service of Leif Arnold Larsen, a distinguished New Yorker and devoted community member.

It serves as a formal expression of the Legislature’s respect and condolences, recognizing Larsen’s personal and professional contributions, faith, family ties, and civic involvement.

Key provisions and changes

Declarative finding: The resolution acknowledges Larsen’s death on February 9, 2026, in Cortlandt Manor, at age 82, and provides a biographical overview.

Biographical highlights include:

Early life: Born March 4, 1943, in Brooklyn; spent early childhood in Norway; returned to Brooklyn and learned English as a newcomer.
Education and early career: Graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School; pursued two years at Ohio Northern University; began working as an apprentice while serving in the Army Reserves on weekends.
Professional career: 30-year career at Consolidated Carpet (installer to project manager); later retired from Sherland and Farrington.
Civic and charitable involvement: Active in community service, including leadership and mentorship; contributed time and talent to Community Bible Church; involved with the Gideons.
Faith and family: Devout Christian; elder at Community Bible Church; married to Betty (Balog) Larsen for nearly 60 years; parents to Lori, Scott, and Kirk; grandfather to Finn, Rowan, and Tora.

The resolution designates Larsen’s life as one of service, leadership, compassion, and community engagement, emphasizing his role as a mentor, church elder, and family-focused individual.

Who or what would be affected

Legislative recognition: The resolution memorializes Leif Arnold Larsen in official New York State records and conveys condolences to his family.

Family and community impact: Acknowledges Larsen’s impact on his family, church community, and broader local network; signals public recognition of private citizen contributions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Referred to the Finance Committee on May 28, 2026.

Process: As a memorial resolution, the bill’s function is ceremonial and symbolic, providing formal recognition rather than creating enforceable policy or budgetary changes.

Next steps: If advanced, it would typically be considered by the Finance Committee and then the full Senate for adoption; upon passage, a copy would be transmitted to Larsen’s family.

Notable details

Length and style: The resolution includes a detailed biographical tribute, reflecting Larsen’s personal history, career achievements, religious faith, and family life.

Purpose alignment: Aligns with the Legislature’s tradition of honoring notable New York citizens who have contributed to their communities and state.

Overall, Bill J 2243 is a ceremonial tribute memorializing Leif Arnold Larsen for his professional dedication, community service, faith, and family contributions.