Avis E. Larson

Avis E. Larson, 94, of Lanesboro, passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Mayo Clinic St. Marys campus.

Avis Elaine Peterson was born March 28, 1928, in Amherst Township, Fillmore County, to Alfred and Esther (Johnson) Peterson. After attending Durkin Country School, she attended and graduated from Lanesboro High School in 1946.

Avis and Eugene Larson were married September 18, 1948. Together they made their home in Lanesboro where they raised their five children in Eugene’s childhood home. Eugene passed away in 2001.

Avis was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, working hard to ensure her family had everything they needed. Bethlehem Lutheran Church was an important part of her life, where she was active in Ladies Aid, sewing group, teaching Sunday School, helping with church dinners and funerals. She was also an active volunteer with Girl Scouts.  In addition, Avis enjoyed playing cards, a competitive game of Scrabble, quilting, reading and especially spending time with family and friends.

Avis is survived by her five children: Kathy (Jim) Schwanke, Cochrane, Wis.; David (Faye) Larson, Cresco, Iowa; Sharon (Walt) Alms, Austin, Minn.; Laura Larson, Blooming Prairie, Minn.; and Dan (Heather) Larson, Rushford, Minn.; 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and sister-in-law Rosella Peterson.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Eugene, brothers Percy (Lois), Gerald (Eleanor), and Roger Peterson and sisters Doris (Donald) Matson, Joyce (Stan) Jandro, Margaret Ann (Eddie) McConnell, an infant sister, and granddaughter Amy Malmin.

Funeral service for Avis will be 11 a.m. on Monday, January 23, 2023, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, in Lanesboro with Pastor Kerry Eversole officiating.  Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Lanesboro Cemetery.

Johnson-Riley Funeral Home is assisting the Larson family with arrangements.  Online condolences are welcome at rileyfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Bethlehem Lutheran Church.