Saturday, November 14, 2026
Donald "Don" Robert Larson, aged 82, peacefully passed away on February 3, 2024, after a brief illness with Alzheimer’s, which was hastened by a fall and leg fracture. He was born on January 22, 1942, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Mr. Harry and Edna Larson. Don proudly served in the Navy from 1959 to 1965, stationed on the flight deck of the USS Enterprise. Following his honorable discharge, he pursued higher education and graduated from the University of Minnesota. He went on to establish thriving clothing stores in Brainerd, Minnesota. Among his various accolades, Don was once voted among the top five sexiest men in Brainerd and held the title of Yo-Yo Champion. However, Don’s greatest achievement was undoubtedly his enduring marriage to his beloved wife, Kathy, whom he cherished for 58 years. Don had a zest for life and a diverse range of interests, including golf, bowling, gambling, cruises, canasta, movies, FOX News, and, above all, fishing. He shared his passion for fishing with his grandchildren, teaching them the art of fileting a fish, navigating a boat, and staking out the best fishing spots. Don’s love for fishing knew no bounds. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy; loving children, Kristine and Scott (Ashley); and adoring grandchildren, Brandon (Meghan), Kassy (Zach), Sam, Andrew, and Benjamin. A Catholic Mass to celebrate Don's life will be held on February 16, 2024, at 11:00 AM at San Marco Catholic Church. A Celebration of Life post-service will be at Steven’s Landing Pool. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Marco Dementia Respite (MDR). Though Don may be gone from our sight, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In the boundless waters of heaven, we pray Don now casts his line with the same persistence and hard work that defined his life here on earth. May he rest in peace and enjoy forever angling for the most magnificent catch.
2/15/2024 Coastal Breeze News
