Before a North Dakota lawmaker was killed in Utah plane crash, he told his sister: ‘Stay safe’

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“Prior to Tragic Utah Plane Crash, North Dakota Lawmaker Conveys Heartfelt Message to Deploying Sister”

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a North Dakota lawmaker, State Senator Doug Larsen, and his family met with a devastating fate when their single-engine Piper Cherokee aircraft crashed in Utah. This tragedy unfolded just hours after Senator Larsen bid farewell to his sister, Peggy Steimel, who was about to embark on a year-long overseas deployment with the Arizona National Guard.

The poignant farewell between Doug Larsen, a former Black Hawk helicopter pilot in the North Dakota National Guard, and his sister Peggy was etched in her memory. As he hugged her tightly, he offered the heartfelt advice, “Stay safe.” Little did they know that these would be their final words to each other.

The ill-fated flight marked the first time that Doug Larsen, his wife Amy, and their two young sons, Christian and Everett, had taken to the skies in their Piper Cherokee to visit Peggy in Scottsdale, Arizona. A tragic twist of fate would cut short their journey home.

The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Canyonlands Airfield near Moab, Utah, following a routine refueling stop. Senator Larsen was at the controls of the plane, according to the Grand County Sheriff’s Office. The National Transportation Safety Board is actively investigating the incident, with a preliminary report anticipated in two weeks.

Federal Aviation Administration records revealed that Senator Larsen’s Piper Cherokee, a Piper PA-28-140, had been meticulously maintained, with its airworthiness certificate renewed through 2030. The Cherokee model is renowned for its widespread use in general aviation, and Senator Larsen had acquired the aircraft to gain flying experience toward obtaining his commercial pilot’s license.

Close friend Joe Faller, who served alongside Senator Larsen in the Guard, recalled their recent flight together. During their journey, Senator Larsen’s passion for aviation was palpable as he eagerly shared details about the plane and their flight path. It was a testament to his commitment to safety that he meticulously checked every aspect of the aircraft before taking off, as confirmed by Danielle Hilzendeger, another of Doug Larsen’s sisters.

In the wake of this tragedy, Peggy Steimel shared poignant memories of a joyful family weekend together, filled with cherished moments. From a family photo shoot to swimming in the pool, savoring local cuisine, and playing baseball, they reveled in each other’s company. Little did they know that they were preparing for a farewell to Peggy, not to Doug, Amy, and the boys.

Senator Doug Larsen had dedicated 29 years of his life to the North Dakota Army National Guard, serving as a Black Hawk helicopter pilot. His substantial 1,776 total military flight hours underscored his deep commitment to his military service.

Close friend and fellow pilot Jim Roers revealed that Senator Larsen had recently achieved his commercial pilot’s license and had even received job offers from commuter airlines, with dreams of eventually flying for a major airline. An FAA record confirmed that a pilot with a similar name and flight experience had obtained a commercial pilot certificate on September 15.

In the North Dakota statehouse, fellow lawmakers paid tribute to Senator Larsen’s legacy. Rep. Paul Thomas and Sen. Cole Conley, who entered the Legislature alongside Senator Larsen in 2020, fondly remembered their early days together. They praised his National Guard career and his unwavering dedication to public service.

Doug Larsen’s warmth extended beyond the political arena. He was known for hosting gatherings and cooking for Senate caucus meetings, exemplifying his camaraderie. He even offered to assist Sen. Cole Conley when his car broke down, showcasing his selflessness.

Senator Doug Larsen, who represented Mandan, chaired a Senate panel responsible for legislation related to industry and business. His military service was also exemplary, earning him accolades such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Service Star, and Army Aviator Badge.

As North Dakota mourns the loss of a dedicated lawmaker, businessman, and military hero, the Republican Party will appoint a successor to complete Senator Larsen’s term, extending through November 2024. This decision will be made with the utmost respect, following the funeral services for Senator Doug Larsen, whose Senate seat is slated for election next year.

[Reporting by Ahmed in Minneapolis. Contributions to this report by Big Big News writer Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis.]

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• Utah Plane Crash
• Senator Doug Larsen
• Arizona National Guard
• National Transportation Safety Board
• North Dakota Army National Guard
• Piper Cherokee Aircraft
• Commercial Pilot License
• Republican Party