Duane L. Larson, MD
June 19, 1928 - April 10, 2006
Duane “Dewey” Larson, age 77, died peacefully with his family at side on April 10, 2006. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; and his two sons, Mark D. Larson MD and wife Aileen of Beaumont and Curtis D. Larson MD of Houston. His dedication and compassion inspired both of his sons to become physicians.
Dr. Larson actively practiced medicine until the age of 76. During his medical career, he received many distinguished honors. He was awarded the Governor of Texas Annual Physician’s Award and the President of the United States Annual Physicians Award. He was Chairman of the World Health Organization, President of the American Burn Association and President of the Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons. He was also Director and Chief Surgeon of the Shriners’ Burn Institute in Galveston, Texas where he developed pressure garments for burns, which are still used today. He was a respected surgeon and educator and was a Visiting Professor at many universities in the United States and abroad.
Dr. Larson graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Doctor of Medicine. He completed a General Surgery Residency at the University of Wisconsin and a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He was Board Certified in General Surgery and Plastic Surgery. He served in United Stated Army and Army Reserves with a final rank of Major in the United States Army Reserves.
After leaving Galveston in 1979, he entered into private practice in the Beaumont / Port Arthur area although he was offered many positions throughout the United States. He performed plastic surgery in Jefferson County for twenty-six years. His sons, Mark and Curtis, joined him in his practice.
Dr. Larson was member of the following professional organizations: American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Association of Plastic Surgeons, Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, International Society of Clinical Plastic Surgeons, Blocker-Lewis Plastic Surgery Society, Plastic Surgery Research Council, American College of Surgeons, Texas Surgery Society, American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, Jefferson County Medical Society, Singleton Surgical Society, American Burn Association, International Society for Burn Injuries, Southern Medical Association, and American Federation for Clinical Research Association. He was a member of El Mina Shrine Temple.
Dr. Duane Larson was a kind and generous man who was loved by all. His achievements demonstrated his compassion and love of medicine. He will be missed by all.
Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, April 15, 2006 at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive followed by burial at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. A gathering of family and friends will be Friday evening, April 14, 2006 from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the mortuary.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bevil Oaks Volunteer Fire Department, 7290 Sweetgum Road, Beaumont, Texas 77713 or charity of your choice.
