National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL) is mourning the death and celebrating the life of John D. Larson, retired NGL President & CEO who died on Sunday, September 29, 2019.
Larson was an integral part of NGL for nearly 50 years. Joining NGL in 1969, John was promoted to various senior leadership positions until becoming president in 1974. He was also Chairman of the NGL Board of Directors beginning in 2004 and appointed Chairman Emeritus in 2017.
“John left behind a legacy at NGL of caring for people, a commitment to Madison and profound integrity in all his dealings. He loved NGL and his community. He will be missed,” said Knut A. Olson, NGL President & CEO.
David G. Walsh, Chairman, NGL Board of Directors said, “John’s leadership and ceaseless effort was instrumental in leading NGL to continued success. The NGL Board of Directors are grateful for John’s sound business advice and valued counsel. He was a valued member of our Board and our community. He will be missed.”
In July 2019, the John D. Larson Scholarship Fund was established at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Business in honor of Larson and his many years of service to NGL. The merit-based scholarship is awarded annually (up to four years provided the recipient is enrolled as an undergraduate) to an incoming freshman who has been accepted to the Wisconsin School of Business.
Prior to joining NGL, Larson was active duty with the U.S. Army as a Judge Advocate and served in Okinawa, Japan from 1966-1969. He continued to serve as member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard for nearly 30 years, during that time he retired as Assistant Adjutant General for Readiness & Training for the State Area Command with the rank of Brigadier General.