Jack Larkin

Obituary for Jack Arlen Larkin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jack Arlen Larkin, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left this world peacefully on September 19, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on August 25, 1931, in Georgetown, Kentucky, Jack lived a life rich in love, joy, and unforgettable experiences.

Jack's journey began with humble beginnings. He received his education up to the 8th grade, worked at Strietman's Biscuit Co. in Over-the-Rhine where he took on side jobs for the LeBlond family such as cutting their grass and driving their daughter wherever she needed to go. His strong work ethic helped him develop a report with Mr. LeBlond that eventually earned him a machinist position at LeBlond Tool Company. He became a dedicated machinist there until he retired.

It was at the Madison Theater in Madisonville where he met the love of his life of 76 years, Donna Marie Hughes, who he went on to marry at the age of 18. They quickly grew into a family of six, raising 4 children on Stewart Rd. (now Stewart Ave.) in Madisonville. From Madisonville, they moved to Milford for a short period of time until he and his in-laws discovered a sprawling 80-acre farm 30 miles east of Cincy where he and his family put down roots. Jack would lovingly refer to the Larkin homestead as "Hills Edge Farm."

A man of the outdoors, Jack had a passion for fishing, gardening, and spending time with family who he was fiercely dedicated to. He created countless memories traveling with his wife, Donna, and family to enjoy the beaches of Lake Michigan, to go boating on Lake Cumberland, to roam the markets and charming landscapes of Holmes County, and countless other trips. He loved bourbon, beer, and horses, never missing any of the Triple Crown horse races. Jack enjoyed working on the farm, cultivating his land to produce hay for the animals, and working the soil in his bountiful garden where he would grow enough to feed a small community. He loved finding new varieties of peppers to grow in his garden and there wasn't a pepper that man couldn't eat! Jack's love for cooking brought his family together on the farm, crafting meals filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

Above all, Jack cherished the time spent with his grandchildren. They were the apples of his eye, filling his days with joy and purpose.

Jack is survived by his wonderful wife, Donna Larkin, son Charles Larkin and his wife Jenny, daughter Cossie Vastine and her husband Don, son John "Jackie" Larkin and his wife Marcia, daughter Michele Daniel, eleven beloved grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren, and ten great-great-grandchildren. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, love, and memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in his honor at St. Louis Church on September 24, 2025, at 11:00 am, followed by a burial at 210 N. Broadway Street, Owensville, OH 45160. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering a truly remarkable man whose spirit will forever resonate in the love he shared.

Rest in peace, Jack. Your legacy of kindness, adventure, and love will never be forgotten.

Jack was preceded in death by parents Charles & Marie Larkin, in-laws Bertha & Charles Hughes, brother Sarge Willis, sister Lula Stein, brother Gordon Larkin, and son-in-law Ernie Daniel.