Obituary of Lars Olav Garthe

Lars Olav Garthe, 87, of Exton, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

Born on November 19, 1938, in Torvastad, Norway, Lars was the only child of the late Leif Garthe and Bergliot (Dale) Garthe. He was raised in occupied Norway during World War II, an experience that helped shape his resilience and character.

Growing up along the shores of the North Sea in Karmøy, Lars developed a lifelong love of the water. After graduating from seaman’s school in Norway, he sailed on cargo ships around the world. He later immigrated to the United States, where he proudly served in the U.S. Merchant Marines. Lars went on to build a long and dedicated career as an operating engineer in the dredging industry. He eventually became manager of the dredging division at Carylon Corporation and was a 68-year member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 25 Marine Division. He retired in 2003 after many years of committed service.

Lars’s love of the water remained central throughout his life. He found great joy sailing on the Chesapeake Bay aboard his sailboat. In later years, he cherished time spent fishing, boating, and hunting at his home on Schoodic Lake in Maine.

Lars shared more than 36 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons, Kenneth Garthe (Crystal) and Roy Garthe (Jo); his stepchildren, Kelly Sims (Robert) and Dana MacMurray (Geoff); 18 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jane Manausa.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, April 28, at R. Strunk Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Phoenixville. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.

Burial will be private.