Richard Larson

AURORA, Wis. - Richard "Rick" Larson, 64, of Aurora, died on Thursday, March 4, 2010, at his home. He was born on Aug. 14, 1945, in Iron Mountain, son of the late Howard and Ellen (Cantwell) Larson. He attended the Florence schools, graduating from Florence High School. He went on to tech school following graduation. Rick was a lifelong resident of Aurora. He was in an accident when he was 17 years old, which left him disabled. In spite of that disability, he led an active life, doing more than most. He was an award winning model railroad craftsman. He loved all sports, the Green Bay Packers, and was a movie buff. He enjoyed riding snowmobiles, three-wheelers, and even rigged a jeep with hand controls so he could go riding on logging roads. He was a talented carpenter and handyman. He enjoyed gardening, and was known to have planted many trees over the years. Rick could fix anything; he was very well read. There was a quote that was made by a family friend that really said it all about Rick, "The smartest man I know." Rick is survived by his brother, Robert Larson of Menasha, Wis.; sisters, Laurie (Jerry) Kempa of Crystal Falls, and Carol Larson of Aurora Rick took the role as Uncle very seriously, always being involved in their lives, it brought him great joy. He said that his nieces and nephews were like his children. He was especially close with Mike Gayan, Chris Gayan and Joel Grimmer. He is further survived by his nieces and nephews, Deanna Zeits, Erin Zeits, Kelsey Grimmer, Don (Pat) Larson Jr., Hester (Jon) Cowling, Heather Clifford, Robert Larson, and Matt Kempa; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; two brothers, Ronald and Donald; and by his grandparents, Richard and Alma Larson Graveside services will be held at Cemetery Park in early summer. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in his memory. Condolences may be expressed to the family of Richard "Rick" Larson online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com. The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.