Joseph Harvey Mitchell Larson, of Fort McMurray, Alberta, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Joe was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty, and connection. He was a journeyman pipefitter by trade and a safety professional at heart, always looking out for the people around him and making sure everyone got home safe. Joe dedicated over 28 years to his career before retiring in November 2015, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and care.

His accomplishments in safety reflected his deep commitment to others. Joe held designations in Occupational Health and Safety and was a Canadian Registered Safety Professional. He was a member of the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering and a Certified Health and Safety Consultant. He also served on the BCRSP Board as a local chairperson, where he interviewed candidates for the CRSP designation, and he was actively involved in various safety committees throughout his career. One of Joe’s favorite sayings as a safety professional was, you treat people the way you want to be treated, with respect and dignity.

He lived and breathed Harley-Davidson. The open road, the sound of the engine, and the community that came with it were all part of who he was. Joe was a proud member of the Oilsands H.O.G Chapter in Fort McMurray, where he served on the executive board for several years, including time as Head Road Captain and Assistant Director. He loved to travel, enjoy a bowl of ice cream, and spend hours playing cards with his family. Joe was known for his infectious personality and his ability to make anyone laugh. He had a way of walking into a room and making it feel lighter. No one stayed a stranger around him for long.

On any given day, you could find him with a Jack Daniel’s in hand, watching the Oilers game and cracking jokes. He was the kind of man who brought people together, who made space at the table, and who made sure no one felt left out. Joe believed the word “step” did not exist. As his family grew over the years, he embraced every person as his own, whether through blood, marriage, or friendship. If you were in his life, you were family. No exceptions.

Joe was the provider in every sense of the word. He never let his family go without, and he carried that responsibility with quiet strength. He showed his love in simple, steady ways through his presence, his protection, and his unwavering support. He was always the first to offer a hug when it was needed, or to bring out his signature sass to turn your frown upside down.

Joe is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sharon; his children, Adrienne Bourassa, Alesha (Larson) Rideout and partner Cody Cook, Sarah (Larson) Velders and husband Cody, and Danielle (Larson) Lincoln and husband Faron, Kristal-Lynn Rostecki, Darrin Rostecki and fiancée Amber Lecky; his grandchildren, Justin Rennie, Alyssa Durk, Leah, Jack and Luke Rideout, Syndey Cook, Payten and Ashlynn Rostecki, Logan, Brody and Jersey Velders, Landon and Lachlann Lincoln; and his great-grandchildren, Adaline and Greyson Durk. He is also survived by his siblings, Alice, Lenard, Rex, and Sheila, along with all of his nieces and nephews, who are mourning his loss. He loved each and every one of you.

He also leaves behind cherished friendships with Janell and Leland, Alyssa and Rollie, and his extended riding family. A special thank you is extended to his sister-in-law Belina and brother-in-law Tommy Farrell, whose constant support, laughter, and love meant so much to Joe and his family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Russell and Alice.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at All Saints Anglican Church, 9902 Manning Avenue, Fort McMurray, at 2:00 p.m.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the doctors and nurses who cared for Joe. A special thank you to Dr. G. Vitug for your professionalism and your down-to-earth nature, which made Joe’s journey easier to bear. You never made anyone feel rushed. You took the time to sit with Joe, listen to his stories about Jack Daniel’s and Harley-Davidson. You treated him with a level of care that felt like true friendship. We will always be grateful. Thank you as well to Jacklyn Kerr and the Palliative Care team for your kindness and compassion.

Your caring presence brought comfort to Joe and to all of us, and we are deeply thankful.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre  Foundation in support of Palliative Care.

Joe will be remembered for his laughter, his love for people, and his ability to make light of even the darkest moments. His loved ones will carry that forward, along with the warmth, humor, and belonging he gave so freely. He was always smiling, and that is how he will be remembered.