CO shooting victim, UW-Whitewater grad Larimer's body in Chicago

CHICAGO -- The body of 27-year-old John Larimer, a Navy officer and UW-Whitewater graduate killed in the Colorado movie massacre returned home to Illinois Thursday, July 26th.

Motorcyclists with the Illinois Old Guard were on hand when the body of Petty Officer Larimer landed at Chicago O'Hare International Airport. They escorted the hearse to the funeral home.

Larimer was stationed at Buckley Air Force Base in Colorado. The 27-year-old was shot and killed as he shielded his girlfriend from gunfire in the theater.

A public viewing for Larimer is scheduled for Friday with a private burial on Saturday.

Like his father and grandfather, Larimer chose to join the U.S. Navy. He was serving at his first post, said his father, Scott Larimer.

A Navy notification team officially informed the family in Crystal Lake, Illinois, around midnight Saturday, a statement from the family said.

"He was an outstanding shipmate, a valued member of our Navy team and an extremely dedicated sailor," said Cmdr. Jeffrey Jakuboski. "Sailors were really drawn to his calming demeanor and exceptional work ethic. He was also known as that quiet, extremely competent professional."

"He was doing extraordinarily well" and had a bright future ahead of him, Jakuboski said.

His unit, part of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command/U.S. 10th Fleet, was stationed at Buckley AFB. Larimer had been in the service for about one year. He had not seen combat.

"We send our thoughts and prayers out to the families of the other victims and those still recovering in the hospital," his family said. "We love you, John, and we will miss you always."

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