Larry "Butch" Clausen

August 11, 1936 – April 23, 2025

Larry Dean Clausen, affectionately known as “Butch,” passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Omaha, Nebraska. Services will be held at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines on Friday, May 2. A visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at Resthaven Cemetery.

Butch was born on August 11, 1936, to Arthur and Grace (Davidson) Clausen on a farm in Madison County, Iowa. At around the age of four, he earned the nickname “Butch,” a name that stuck with him throughout his life.

He grew up cherishing time spent on the farm, especially with his close childhood friend Herbbie and many cousins during summers. He loved building things, collecting comic books, and had fond memories of leading the draft horses to the water tank. Butch also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing sports.

After graduating from Dexter Public School in 1954, he served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged after a short period of service. Upon returning home, he was introduced to Nadine Ford. They married soon after and built a life together, raising two children and spending the next 65 wonderful years side by side. Together, they created countless family memories, including many trips to Disney World and traveling across the United States, eventually visiting or passing through every state.

In his later years, Butch found joy in the simple things—watching westerns and murder mysteries, savoring ice cream, and spending time with his loved ones. He was a straightforward, honest man who valued family above all and held a deep-rooted faith.

Butch is survived by his children, Rod (Shelly) Clausen, and Renee Nestvedt; grandchildren, Megan (Josh) Siske, Jared (Kendal Wacholz) Clausen, Derrick Nestvedt, and Nicole Nestvedt; and great-grandchildren, Easton Brooks, Boston Siske, Leah Boyd, Jayden Juarez, and Mackenah Nestvedt, and great-great granddaughter, Geneva Gomez. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nadine; his brother, Robert (Marian) Morgan.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, 3223 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mclarenswesthavenchapel.com for the Clausen family.