Don Larsen

Donald P. Larsen, 88, of Waukon, IA passed away on Friday, July 21, 2023, at Northgate Manor in Waukon. Per Don's wishes, a small family graveside service at Old West Paint Creek Cemetery and a celebration of life are planned at a later date. Martin - Grau Funeral Home in Waukon is handling the arrangements.

Donald Palmer Larsen was born April 25, 1935, to Herbert Palmer and Clara (Olson) Larsen. He was born at the home farm on Sherman Ridge, Jefferson Township, rural Waukon, IA. His birth certificate was never signed, which caused interesting issues later in life when filing for social security. Don was baptized and confirmed at Old West Paint Creek Lutheran Church in rural Waukon. He attended Jefferson #1 School then graduated from Waukon High School in 1953.

Don met Sharon Harms at the Rainbow Gardens dance hall in Waterville, IA. They were married on May 24, 1958, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA, and said "I do" at 1:50 PM. They had a picnic at the church after the ceremony and a shivaree proceeded that night at the home farm. Don and Sharon had nine children.

Don worked at the Waterville Creamery and hauled can and bulk milk for many years. He also farmed and worked at Pladsen's garage and Quillin's grocery in later years toward retirement. Don was a proud Norwegian and loved lutefisk and lefse. He loved telling Ole and Lena jokes and sharing amazing facts and stories about the town of Rossville, IA. Don was also a big fan of the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Survivors include his nine children: Pam (Mike) Robson of Coon Valley, WI, Bryan (Mary) Larsen of Washburn, IA, Sue (Randy) Loken of Mindoro, WI, Scott (Karla) Larsen of Livingston, WI, Todd Larsen of Lansing, IA, Bruce (Janet) Larsen of Lansing, IA, Chad (Pamela) Larsen of St. Robert, MO, Shelly (Steve) Johnson of Holmen, WI, and John Larsen of DeWitt, IA; 31 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Betty Larsen of Waukon; and brother-in-law David (Carol) Harms of Johns Creek, GA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Sharon, who passed away in 2011; brothers Vic and Carl Larsen; sisters Bernice Snitker and Janet Snitker; infant great-granddaughter Eileithyia Whitney; and many more brothers-in law and sisters-in-law.