Eugene "Gene" L. Larson

Eugene “Gene” Leo Larson, age 75, of Hastings, passed away March 4, 2016 in Cottage Grove MN at White Pines Memory Care Facility from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. He was surrounded by his wife and children. Gene was born Sept. 30, 1940 in Wilton, ND. After high school he attended college and studied Art. Soon after he enlisted in the Army and spent his time as a paratrooper and Medic for the 101st Airborne. He married Judy in 1967 and together they raised two children, Kim and Kory and lived in Hastings MN. Gene enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing and his favorite place to be was Birch Ridge Resort on Leech Lake, MN. He enjoyed tinkering in the garage and he was quick to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Some may remember him best as he drove through town in his Minnegasco Truck, waving and stopping in to say hello to anyone he saw on his route. He was quick with a smile and a joke. Gene was a hard and dedicated worker, a kind and giving man, a dedicated father and friend. He was preceded in death by his father, Jess Larson; his mother, Vivian Larson; and his sister, Janice Schuller. Gene is survived by his wife, Judy Larson; daughter, Kim (Victor) Idrovo and son, Kory Larson; three grandsons, Kale and Conner Larson, and Myles Idrovo. A memorial service, officiated by Pastor Doug Duin, will be held on Thursday (3/10) at 11:00 AM at Our Saviour’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 400 W. 9th St. in Hastings. A visitation will be held on Wednesday (3/9) from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Wise Family Funeral Home, 400 Spring St., Hastings, and one hour prior to the service at church. Military Honors provided by Hastings VFW Post 1210. A special thank you to Jeanice Meier who not only cared for him, but became a loving friend who gave him life and purpose until the end. You will forever be our Angel on Earth. To Juli Wall from Morning Glory Home Care who provided loving guidance along the way and sent us Jeanice. To the staff at White Pines who saw the man he was through the disease and helped him transition to his home away from home. To Annie Blide and staff from Intrepid Hospice Care for their gentle support. Know that we appreciated the love and care you provided to this man that will forever be missed. If people are interested in making a donation in memory of Gene, please do so to the Alzheimer’s Association. The Wise Family Funeral Home is serving the family. Visit www.wisefamilyfh.com to view the memorial video and sign the online tribute page.