Gloucester, MA- Albert “Chris” Larsen, 79, of Gloucester, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, July 17, 2026. Son of the late Albert and Bertha (Mattson) Larsen, Chris was born and raised in Gloucester. He graduated from Gloucester High School in 1965 and went on to join the US Army in 1967. He served Honorable in Vietnam until January of 1969.

From an early age, Chris was known for his adventurous spirit, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family and “acquaintances”. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed an active life. He played softball with the Larsen Lagers in Lanesville, raced stock cars in his younger years, and worked in the stone quarries on his days off. He found great satisfaction tending his vegetable and flower gardens and was always working on a project around the house or in the yard. He was deeply proud of his Finnish heritage and took great joy in learning about his family’s history and traditions. He took Finnish lessons and spent countless hours researching family history, carefully creating family trees, collecting photographs, and preserving photo albums that told the stories of those who came before him. He embodied the Finnish spirit of Sisu- quiet strength, perseverance, resilience, and determination- qualities that were evident in the way he worked, served his community, and lived his life.

For more than 40 years, Chris was a familiar and beloved presence on Main Street, where he proudly owned Larsen’s Shoe Store. More than just a businessman, he became a trusted friend and neighbor to generations of families. Countless people in the community remember having their shoes carefully fitted by him, Al, or Wendy, often returning year after year, generation after generation. His kindness, patience, and genuine care for every customer truly made it the “Friendly Store”.

He was deeply committed to serving his fellow veterans and was an active member of both AMVETS and the VFW. He faithfully attended veteran’s services and parades and volunteered with the Vietnam Moving wall, honoring those who served who make the ultimate sacrifice. Known for his quick wit, he even wrote down jokes so he wouldn’t forget to tell his friends on Monday nights at the VFW. He always had a smile or laugh to offer.

Chris is survived by: His wife of 56 years, Joan Larsen; his daughter Wendy Larsen and her wife Barbara Pignone of Gloucester; his daughter Laurie Larsen and her wife Phoebe Boucher of Woburn; his daughter Kristie Nicastro and her husband Marc of Gloucester; his (favorite but only) son Kyle Larsen of Beverly; and his brother-in-law Glenn Selig. He was predeceased by his siblings Karen Selig and Maryann Kerepka.

Visiting hours for Chris will be held on Tuesday July 28 from 4PM to 7PM at the Campbell Funeral Home, 61 Middle St, Gloucester. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Contributions may be made in Chris’s memory to Cape Ann Veterans Services, 9 Dale Ave, Gloucester, MA. 01930 with a memo: Chris Larsen. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com .