Larriva, Michael Thomas
Michael Thomas Larriva passed quietly at his home on July 3, 2013. He was born October 31, 1940, and was raised in Tucson. He graduated twice from the University of Arizona with Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Electrical Engineering. Recruited out of college by IBM, he was an early pioneer in the computing industry. He studied at Stanford University working toward a PhD where he also helped develop the loading program for Pascal. During a 50-year career, 30 years with IBM, he became a world-recognized expert in his field.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and brother-in-law, always putting others before himself. He actively supported his family through youth soccer leagues and his involvement in his church community. He enjoyed time with his friends and family playing cards, attending Diamondback games, playing indoor soccer, musical concerts, and any kind of family gathering.
Mike was preceded in death by his wife of almost 50 years, Barbara Olson Larriva, and his parents Genaro Amado “G.A.” Larriva and Evelyn Medora Larriva (nee Francies). He is survived by their three children, Amanda Larriva Deen (Brent), Maija Larriva-Johnson (Phil) and Michael A. Larriva (Stefanie); and four grandchildren, Jessica Deen, Alex Deen, Kennon Larriva and Sydney Larriva. He is also survived by his siblings, Lionel F. Larriva, Sylvia Larriva Swyryd and Victoria Larriva, as well as by his brother-in-law, Bill Olson.
If you have had the good fortune to know Mike, come cry, laugh, remember and love with us at 5:30pm, followed by a rosary at 7pm on Thursday, July 11, 2013, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, Arizona – 602-840-5600. Funeral service will be celebrated Friday, July 12, 2013, 10:30 at Brophy Chapel, 4701 N Central Ave, Phoenix, Arizona. Donations may be made in Mike’s name to the Larriva-Francies Scholarship Endowment, sent to: UA Foundation, Attn: Scholarships, 1111 N. Cherry Ave., Tucson, AZ 85721 or online at http://uafoundation.org/give/larrivafrancies
Please sign guest book at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Nancy
We’re truly sorry to hear of your loss. May the God of all comfort be with you at this time. For he truly hears our prayers and “he is healing the brokenhearted ones, and is binding up their painful spots”.-Psalms 147:3
Lisa Cooksey-Cannon
My prayers are with your family at this time.
Be blessed my Sirius family.
Lisa
Annie Neroda
Just to say the name, “Mike Larriva,” calmed people down and let cooler heads prevail. He was the embodiment of grace. Always open to the feelings and opinions of others, he accepted everyone and helped everyone. In short, he lived the Gospel.
Richard & Linda Larriva & family
Our thoughts are with you as we accompany you all in your feeling of this loss in the family. We all looked up to Mike. He could not believe that I graduated as an ME using a slide rule. Linda and I had the pleasure of being on a trip to Australia with Mike and Barbara. They made the trip a joyful and memorable experience. Mike will be missed.
Sharon and Larry Balk
Sharon and I have had the opportunity to know Mike and Barb and have enjoyed our few times with them. We are saddened with the passing of Mike, now. We will miss Mike’s stories, candor, and expertise on the job. I know that Mike will be truly missed on the job too.
Brent Schoeneck
I had to good fortune to work with Mike while at Sentry Insurance and American Express for a number of years. He taught me very much over the years and have missed him often. Truly a remarkable man. My sympathy to the Larriva Family over their loss.
Claude Aragon/IBM
God”s speed Mike to your final resting joy with our Lord.
My prayers are offered up for your soul and for your peace for your family.
Eileen and Chris Pewterbaugh
We are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. Know that we are also so happy to know that you could be here with your entire family.
You are loved.
Eileen, Chris, Ryan, Nick, Jake and Matthew
Pete Kanis (IBM)
I am so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. Few men in life have achieved what Mike has in that you never heard anyone say anything negative about him. Mike never said anything negative about another. Mike was highly respected and liked by everyone. Further, you would always hear positive things about Mike. We all have been blessed to have known Mike and to be a part of his journey through life.