Ron Larson

Ronald Joseph Larson, age 84, of New Prague, died peacefully with his family at his side on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at St. Gertrude’s Health and Rehabilitation Center. Ron was born on the family farm near Brooten on July 9, 1940, to Walter and Bette (McDermond) Larson. Born at 1 ½ pounds, he was given a slim chance at survival, but he defied the odds and that determination would chart the rest of his life! He attended Brooten Country School and then made a career using his love of woodworking. He worked in the commercial industry, working on libraries, Cedar-Riverside Hospital, the Science Museum, Southdale Shopping Center, and even Casey’s cage at Como Zoo. While with his brother and his girlfriend, Ron met a young lady at Porky’s Drive-In/Diner in Minneapolis. It was truly love at first sight and he and Joan Weeks were married on May 12, 1962, in Zumbrota, MN. It was a marriage uniting two best friends and Joan’s death two years ago, was crushing for Ron.

Ron continued his woodworking after retiring from the industry, crafting such things as birdhouses, Christmas decorations and puzzles, and coming to the rescue of his children when things needed fixing or crafting; he loved to tinker! He was generous with both his time and his resources, donating to many charities, such as Disabled Vets, Boys Town, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. He loved animals and especially enjoyed watching Dr. Pol, Animal Vet on TV. Judge Judy was another favorite. Jaunts up to the cabin in Ottertail County always brought peace and respite and Ron insisted on taking his tools back and forth with him, because one never knew “when you might need something in the toolbox! And many times, he did! He always dressed in layers, no matter how warm the weather, and it always included overalls! In his earlier years, fishing and hunting filled his leisure time. Once the grandchildren and great-grandchildren came on the scene, Ron’s devotion was all-encompassing. They were the joy of his life. His calm, sweet nature made him a favorite and the kids knew who they could go to for cuddles and love.

Ron is survived by his children, Jamie (Dennis) Larson of Annandale, Tammie Silverstone (Chris) of New Prague, DiAnna Larson (Randy) of Prior Lake, Jason (Kelly) Larson of Jordan; 7 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, Bruce Larson of Waite Park; sister-in-law, Shirley Heurung of Eagan. He is preceded in death by his wife, Joan on November 28, 2022; brothers, Luverne, Douglas, & Terry; sister, Sandra Lallak.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Bruzek Funeral Home with Reverend Diane Goulson officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to service from 10-11 AM. Private family burial will occur at a later date at Zumbrota Cemetery.