Russell Eugene Larson

Russell E. Larson, 93, of Iola, passed away Tuesday, May 21st, at Iola Living Assistance, Wisconsin. Russell was born in Harrison Township, Wisconsin on February 24, 1926, a son of the late Marie (Olson) and Henry Larson. He attended Harrison Center School. Later the family moved to Alban Township in Portage County, where he attended Rosholt High School. At age 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy and was assigned to Landing Craft Support (LCS #35) . During his military career he visited many countries; China, Japan, South America , etc. and was at Iwo Jima during that famous battle and saw the rising of the American flag from the ship. At that time he turned 19. From there it was on to Okinawa, which he thought was more fierce than Iwo Jima. He was honorably discharged in May 1946, with the Asiatic Pacific campaign Medal (2 Bronze Stars), W.W.II Victory medal, Philippine Ribbon 2 Bronze Stars, etc. In March 1947, he joined the United States Merchant Marines as a Licensed Merchant Marine Officer-(3rd mate). He later returned to Rosholt and then to Elkhorn as a "Milk Tester". He met his wife "Gerry" in Elkhorn. He married Geraldine Waltman on Nov. 8, 1952 at the First Ev. Lutheran Church in Elkhorn, They celebrated their 66th anniversary Nov. 8, 2018. Russell and Gerry farmed in the Elkhorn area until 1972, they discontinued farming and started "Russell Larson Realty". Russell built a large home in Tucson, AZ. where they spent winter months. In October 1988 Russ and Gerry retired to Iola to be closer to family. He was active with the Iola Old Car Show and the Northland Lutefisk Supper. Russell spent many hours in his shed working on motors and restoring a 1985 Lincoln and afternoon coffee with his neighbor Ken Olson. In 2014, he took the "Honor Flight" to Washington DC. For the past several years, he spent time in South Dakota pheasant hunting, and visiting his grandson, Craig and family. He is survived by his Wife: Geraldine LarsonSons: Ole (Friend: Julaine Haroldson) Larson of Rosholt,Eric (Darlene) Larson of Waupaca,Grandsons: Nels, Han, Craig, and Cole Larson, Granddaughter: Kari and 8 great grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. He was preceded in death by 3 sisters: Leila Thompson, Mildred Jacobson, Jean Gunderson, and 3 brothers: Herbert, Raymond and Gordon. The Funeral Service for Russell will be held at Northland Lutheran Church, Iola, Wisconsin, at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 24th, with Reverend Dan Somers officiating. Visitation will be held Friday 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. at the church Interment will be in Northland Lutheran Cemetery in the Town of Harrison, Waupaca County, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be given to Northland Lutheran Church in memory of Russell. Register Book and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.voiefuneralhome.com Voie Funeral Home120 S. Main St.Iola, WI. 54945715-445-2560