"Like so much of what he did during his extraordinary life, my father had a plan and was in command throughout this journey," said his son Eric Larson in a statement. "The outpouring of love and best wishes from his friends around the world has been a great source of strength for the family. For my dad, family always came first, and we were blessed to be able to be by his side." Larson is survived by his wife Bonnie Ann Larson, their merged family of six children, eleven grandchildren and his brother, David.

Larson, a native of Minneapolis, spent 26 years with the Taubman Co. He joined the company in 1974, was elected president and chief operating office in 1978, chief executive officer in 1988 and vice chairman of Taubman Centers Inc. and chairman of the Taubman Realty Group in 1990. He retired from active management responsibilities at Taubman in December 1988 and as vice chairman and director in May 2000.

Robert S. Taubman, chairman, president and CEO of Taubman Centers, said on behalf of his company he expresses condolences. "Bob Larson was a cherished friend, colleague and distinguished citizen of Detroit. He will be remembered for his extraordinary contributions to our company, the real estate industry and our community," Taubman says.