James H. Larson, age 59 passed away June 13, 2026, in Peoria, IL surrounded by his family and his partner, Tamara Krupps.

He was born September 24, 1966, in Limestone, Maine, at Loring AFB to Neil D. Larson and Janice Yonker Larson. The Larsons later relocated to Belleville, IL, where they raised their family.

Jim's parents introduced him to Roller Speed Skating at age 5 with dedication and practice, he became a champion in the sport. He later took up Inline Speed Skating, traveling around the world to compete in both indoor rinks and outdoor tracks. He had one of the fastest starts in the sport and lived a life marked by many Inline Speed Skating trophies and medals. His lifelong love of competitive Inline Skating transitioned into Coaching, refereeing meets, and even hosting his own Podcast dedicated to educating others in the sport.

His passions included his love of his family and friends, his Golden Retriever Ryli, and being a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers Fan. He also enjoyed his weekly fellowship at Richwoods Church in Peoria, IL.

Jim will always be known for his fun-loving spirit, his sense of humor, and his contagious smile. He was always there to lend a hand or comfort a friend in need. Jim touched countless lives throughout his unwavering love for those closest to him and his ability to make others feel welcomed, loved, and cared for.

Jim is survived by his partner, Tamara Krupps of Peoria, IL, his brother Richard (Dianna) Larson of Easley, SC, his sister Leanne Baldini (partner Bob) of Roxanna, IL, his sister Laurie (RG) Gillis of Springfield, IL, and brother Jeffrey (Dana) Larson of Springfield, IL. He is also survived by nephews Shawn Larson, Jason Larson, Angelo Baldini, and Logan Larson, and nieces Megan Gross, Hannah Larson, Natalie Steppe, and Valentina Baldini.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Tamara and the family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayer support.

Cremation rights accorded with a Celebration of Life to be announced by the family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim's honor to As Good As Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois by visiting www.asgoodasgold.org