Larry K. Larson

Larry K. Larson, age 74, died at home on Wednesday, September 14, 2011, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was born December 11, 1936, in Neenah, Wisconsin, son of the late Emil and Viola (née: Krasin) Larson.

Larry attended a one-room schoolhouse in Potter, WI, and graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc. He attended Ripon College where he earned nine varsity letters in track, cross country and wrestling. He went on to receive his master's degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, where he met the love of his life, Judith A. Larsen. Larry went on to teach in Valders and Beloit before coming to Racine where he taught social studies and coached cross country and wrestling at Washington Park High School from 1962 through 1992.

On December 22, 1962, he married Judith Larsen. They became the proud parents of Matthew and Ann. Larry became interested in race walking and served as coach of the U.S. Race Walking Team, which competed in Eschborn, Germany. Athletics were always an important part of Larry’s life; among many sports-related achievements he created the first-ever high school sport history class and was honored to serve as a track official at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Larry was a devoted husband and father. He was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, where he served as deacon, worship assistant and lay minister. He also served as president of the Hoy Nature Club and Churchmen’s Club.

Larry is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Matthew and wife Jennifer; his cherished three grandchildren, Natasha and Michael Robles and Lucy Larson; his sister, Sharon (Bob) Hicks of Naples, FL; brother, Ron Larson of Las Vegas; sister-in-law, Mary Larson of Brillion; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Ann; and his brother, Richard.

A memorial service will be held Monday September 19, 2011, at 11 a.m. at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 322 Ohio St., with Reverend James Barsch officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Wisconsin Parkinson Association, Ripon College or Lutheran Church of the Resurrection have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888