The community of Barnegat Light and the broader Ocean County family are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Mayor Kirk Larsen, a steadfast leader, loyal friend, and devoted public servant who dedicated more than two decades of his life to serving the people he loved so deeply. His passing leaves a void not only in the hearts of his family and friends but also in the very fabric of the community he worked tirelessly to protect.
Mayor Larsen’s journey was defined by commitment, vision, and courage. For over 20 years, he faithfully served as the Mayor of Barnegat Light, guiding the township through times of growth, challenge, and change. He was a man who believed in preserving the character of his town, ensuring that Barnegat Light’s charm, beauty, and values would endure for generations to come.
One of the defining aspects of his leadership was his unwavering dedication to protecting his community from outside threats that he believed could alter its identity and natural environment. Mayor Larsen became widely recognized for his passionate opposition to offshore wind farms, a cause he championed with resolve. He stood firm, not only as a political figure but also as a protector of the traditions and way of life cherished by the residents of Barnegat Light. His voice carried both the strength of his convictions and the weight of a man who placed duty to his people above all else.
Beyond his leadership and advocacy, Kirk Larsen will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and personal touch. He was not just a mayor—he was a friend, a mentor, and a neighbor who never forgot the importance of listening to those he served. To many, he embodied the very essence of what it means to lead with both strength and compassion.
As we grieve this tremendous loss, we also honor the legacy he leaves behind. His two decades of service stand as a testament to the power of dedication and the difference one individual can make when they lead with heart, courage, and conviction. His memory will live on in the policies he shaped, the traditions he preserved, and the countless lives he touched throughout his years in office.
We extend our heartfelt prayers to his family, loved ones, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and respect from the community and in the knowledge that Kirk Larsen’s legacy will endure far beyond his years.
Mayor Kirk O. Larsen will be remembered not only as a leader but as a man who gave his life to the service of others. He will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten.