E. L. Power

Gary Lee Larson, a devoted and beloved husband, father and friend, an accomplished football player, businessman, RV'er, traveler, and the enjoyable guy everyone loved to be around, died on Friday, June 2, 2017, in Palm Desert, California.

 

Gary was born in St. Cloud, Minnesota on February 20, 1944, graduated from Bloomington High School, proudly entered the Marine Corps, and served in Vietnam. 

 

Gary recently celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary with his love of his life, Carolyn (surviving).  Throughout their fifty years of marriage, they traveled to nearly every state in their motorhome, along with many travels overseas. Many of these travels were done together or with their beloved friends in their camping group, the Rovin Rogues.  Everywhere they went on their adventures they made acquaintances or friends, and along the way, they picked up a few memories or an animal or two which would become a part of the family.  Gary was a spiritual man, where Carol and he hosted a Bible study class for over 20 years which created a deeper understanding of God and developed many friendships. 

 

Gary was an active, funny, and loving father and grandfather.  He is survived by his son Joshua (Anna) Larson and his daughter Amanda (Timothy) Swanson.  His grandchildren, Eric Larson, Alyssa Larson, and Amelia Swanson and stepgrandson’s James and Ari.  He is survived by his brother Jeffery (Debbie) Larson, and many nieces, nephews and other family members.   Gary's father and mother, Alfred and Genevieve Larson and brother Bruce Larson preceded his death.   

 

Gary was the go-to guy about everything, as he dabbled and expressed interest in pretty much everything mechanical, electrical, outdoors, woodworking, landscaping, computers, religion, Science Fiction, business, politics, brewing beer, sports, and most importantly he provided intellectual, emotional insight to family and friends going through tough and happy times. 

 

Anyone who knew Gary, knew he had a life-long love affair with many unique items such as hats, and animals, but one item was his favorite which was his love affair with peanut butter.  Peanut butter and saltine crackers, tomato soup with a dollop of peanut butter, peanut butter on hot dogs, and he would even travel with peanut butter to foreign countries because he was unsure they would have it there.  

 

Funeral will be held at Risen Savior Catholic Church, Burnsville, MN on June 27, 2017 at 11:00 am, with visitation starting at 10:00 am.  Lunch to follow.  Risen Savior Catholic Church, 1501 County Rd 42 E, Burnsville, MN 55306.

 

Interment will be at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery with immediate family.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Vietnam Veterans or your local American Legion.