Darris Keith Larson
(1951-2026)
Darris Keith Larson, 75, of Salina, passed into heaven on Sept. 25, 2026. He was born on Feb. 21, 1951, the first son of Robert and Louise Larson of Marquette, Kan. After his mother’s passing, Robert married Margarette Larson.
Darris attended Eden Prairie Country Grade School through seventh grade and moved to “town school” eighth through 12th grades, graduating from Marquette High School in 1969. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural economics from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kan., and he remained a lifelong fan and supporter of K-State.
He was united in marriage to Jennifer Inskeep on Aug. 6,1972, in Cawker City, Kan., and together they celebrated 54 years. They were blessed with two children, Elizabeth and Andrew.
Being reared on a farm, Darris was taught the value of a strong work ethic that carried him throughout his life. Darris was a grain and commodities merchandiser at the Salina Board of Trade, working for CGF and Evans Grain Company for 20 years. A career change led to his profession of financial planning with A.G. Edwards and Wells Fargo Advisors. After 25 years in the profession, he retired, leaving behind lasting friendships and cherished relationships with colleagues. He served on various boards in the community.
Darris was known for his outgoing personality and a smile that filled any room he entered. He loved to visit and made friends easily. He had exemplary manners, and simply put, Darris was a gentleman. He loved the outdoors and all the activities that nature provided. His love for horses and riding led to his membership in the RoundUp Riders of the Rockies. He actively rode with the group for many years. Darris enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and water skiing. He shared his love for the outdoors, teaching many friends and young men to hunt and fish.
Darris had a passion for his grandchildren. He loved following their activities, academics, sports and zest for life. He poured into them some of his life quotes, among them being, “Simply tell the truth,” “Always be kind” and “Be a straight shooter.”
Darris’ faith and belief in God was part of his everyday life. He served his church faithfully in many different roles. He valued his close friends from his church Life Group hosted weekly in his home.
Darris was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Louise Larson and his younger brother Lyle Larson.
He is survived by his wife Jennifer Larson; daughter Elizabeth (David) DeBruyn, Lenexa, Kan.; son Andrew (Noelle) Larson, Bozeman, Mont.; brother Craig ( Jackie) Larson, Marquette, Kan.; sister-in-law Gayle (Ron) Larson Phillips, Abilene, Kan.; and six cherished grandchildren, Rebecca DeBruyn, Sarah Kate (Tyler) Hahn, Luke DeBruyn, Benaiah Larson, Gabriel Larson and Simeon Larson. He also leaves behind his Buchanan and Larson cousins, sisters- and brothers-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026, at Ryan Mortuary. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Oct. 1, at 10:30 a.m. at First Covenant Church, 2526 E. Magnolia Rd., Salina, Kan. Interment will be at 2:30 p.m. at Elim Lutheran Cemetery, Marquette, Kan.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gideons International, Reins of Hope (Hutchinson, Kan.) or First Covenant Church Missions.
Online condolences at www.ryanmortuary.com.