Larry B. Birch's Obituary
Larry B. Birch
1934 - 2017
Larry B. Birch, 83, beloved husband, brother, father, and grandfather, died Tuesday, September 12, 2017, at home. He was born on January 4, 1934 and raised in Roseville, California by loving parents, Philip J. and Virginia Jensen Birch. On October 7, 1957, he married Susan Osborn in the Salt Lake Temple.
Larry was a pioneer in the computer industry, teaching himself in the early 70s, with just books and a chalkboard, to write code. Thereafter he made his living as a programmer in the oil and minerals exploration industry, and later as a consultant.
Larry loved the gospel of Jesus Christ passionately and was a stalwart member of the LDS Church. He also loved the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, which he read well over 100 times. He was a voracious learner, known to be fascinated with science, geology, astronomy, bird watching, history, aircraft, and many other topics. He looked forward to the next life when he would get the master class in astrophysics. He was well educated, both formally and through his inquisitive and insatiable consumption of knowledge.
As an avid and eclectic music lover, Larry enjoyed jazz, jazz guitar, Willie Nelson, Moody Blues, Walter Carlos’ Switched-on Bach, all classical music, ABBA, Fresh Air, Earl Klugh, Chet Atkins, Les Paul, and many others. He had a beautiful, bold and distinctive tenor voice that he employed unreservedly at home, in choirs, and in church services.
Larry leaves behind his wife of nearly 60 years, Susan, and five children: Peter L. (Danelle), Robert O. (Joan), Daniel O. (Melissa), Julia B. Wall (Gary) and Laura Birch, plus 11 grandchildren, and two brothers (J. Neil and Bruce J.) all of whom will miss his wicked smart brain and wry sense of humor. His children remember him as fun-loving, playful, and hard-working. He was an exceptional husband and father.
Funeral services will be held Monday, September 18, 2017 at noon. Family and friends may visit Sunday evening from 6 to 8 and Monday morning from 10:30 to 11:45, all at the Winder 11th Ward chapel, 951 East 3825 South, Millcreek, UT 84106. Burial at Elysian Gardens. All our love goes to the angels of Millcreek Hospice.
In Larry’s memory, read the Book of Mormon.
What’s your fondest memory of Larry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Larry?
Share a story where Larry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Larry you’ll never forget.
How did Larry make you smile?