Harold "Don" Larson

Memorial Services for Harold "Don" Larson will be conducted from the Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk, Nebraska on Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Bill Waterman, officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date.

Harold "Don" Larson, 84 years of age, of Funk, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at the Phelps Memorial Health Center in Holdrege. Don was born June 7, 1923 on a farm west of Holdrege in Phelps County, the eldest of four children of Harold Walter and Elsie Grace (Marion) Larson. He received his education at District #6 and District #26 in Phelps County. Don was active in 4-H, earning many purple and blue ribbons in county and state fairs. Following his education, Don engaged in farming and the labor of the land continued to be his passion his entire life.

On August 17, 1951 he was united in marriage to Merna (Awe) Koch at the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Holdrege and to this union four sons were born: Danny, Douglas, Dale and David. The family made their home on a farm north of Funk for several years before purchasing the original Victor Larson Homestead.

He enjoyed roller skating, tending to his horses, fishing and hunting. Don especially enjoyed fishing and camping with the family and loved the time spent with extended family at the Larson Family annual holiday camping, which they called "Kid's Day."

Don also enjoyed many friendship bonds formed through the years over a cup of coffee at the Coffee Cup Café in Funk. Don and Merna were members of The Grange, and enjoyed many trips throughout all 50 states and all the Providences of Canada.

Don joined Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Holdrege in 1952, where he active on the building committee. He then transferred his membership to Fridhem Lutheran Church in Funk, where he served on the church council.

Don leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Merna of Funk; three sons: Danny Larson and his wife, Diana of Funk, Dale Larson and his wife, Nancy of Funk and David Larson and his wife, Kathy of Cushing, Nebraska; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one sister; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded by his parents; one son, Douglas and two brothers: Dean and Daro Larson. He will be missed by his family and a host of friends.

There will be no visitation, the family is honoring Don's wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in his memory.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.