Matthew James Larson

Matthew James Larson, 38, died Sunday, March 8, 2009, in Royal City from a motocross accident.

 Matt was born in Port Angeles, Wash., on Aug. 4, 1970, to James and Sandra (Hiserote) Larson. He was the third of five children. The family moved to Royal City in 1975, where Matt attended school, kindergarten through 12th grade, at Royal schools. Matt was involved in FFA leadership, showing cattle, basketball and was very involved with the family farm.

Matt loved motocross racing. He inspired other riders because he was good at it and loved the sport. He rode in Nevada, California, Idaho and raced in every western state before he could actually drive (legally). It was a love for the sport that continued into adulthood. He dearly loved his children, spending time with them, playing cards, camping, and being with his family.

Matt worked for the Quincy-Columbia Basin Irrigation District since he was 18 years old, starting in the spring of 1989. He was currently the assistant watermaster at the Royal Camp office.

Matthew is survived by his wife Jennifer at home in Royal City, his children Hannah and Gerrit, Cody, Allie and Tucker. His ex-wife Michelle (Aaron) and his parents, James and Sandra Larson of Vancouver, Wash.; his siblings John (Shanon) Larson and children Tyler and Cassandra of Olympia, Samuel (Stephani) Larson and children Julian and Jessica of Doylestown, Penn., Linda (Robert) Haensel and children Noah and Rhylee of Vancouver, Wash., and Michael (Melissa) Larson of Beaverton, Ore.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Harold and Martha Larson of Port Angeles, Wash., and maternal grandparents Ralph “Mike” and Mayobeth “Bingie” Hiserote of Ephrata.

A memorial service to celebrate Matt’s life will be held at 4 p.m., Thursday in the Nazarene Church of Royal City, 200 Calla Loop N.W., Royal City, with Pastor Tim Snyder officiating.

A reception will immediately follow the services at the Moose Lodge in Royal City.

You may leave a note or message for the family at ?www.carverfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Matt’s family has asked Carver Family Funeral Home, Moses Lake to care for arrangements.