Ralph E. Larson

Ralph Edward Larson, 87, passed away Oct. 6, 2016, in Blue Springs, Mo. after a lengthy illness. He was born March 9, 1929, in Rockford Ill. son of Carl V. Larson and Blenda C. (Grenberg). Survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sylvia Anne Larson (nee Wengert). They were married at Salem Lutheran Church on July 24, 1951. Ralph graduated from Rockford East High School, Class of 1947. During high school, he worked at National Lock until he joined the Army, serving during the Korean War. Upon discharge as a Corporal, he returned to National Lock, where he retired after 43 years of service.

Ralph was a member of Timothy Lutheran Church in Blue Springs, Mo. He was a former member of Alpine Lutheran Church and Salem Lutheran Church in Rockford. Ralph enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, golfing, fishing, camping, and playing games. He was also an avid do-it yourselfer, handy with tools, from a hammer to a chainsaw. Using these skills, he built his lake house in the Hayward, Wis., area, which his family enjoyed for many years.

Predeceased by parents; and sister, Bernice Svigel.

Survived by wife, Sylvia; daughter, Sherri McNaughton (Ron) of Blue Springs, Mo.; son, Brian Larson (Kathleen Kurtz) of Rockford, Ill; daughter Nancy Golemba (Nick) of Inverness, Ill; six grandchildren, Laurie Petty (Matt) of Lee’s Summit, Mo., Jill McNaughton of Warrensburg, Mo., Rebecca Rice , and Jennifer McNaughton both of Kansas City, Mo., Anne Rice of Denver, Colo., and Evan Larson of Rockford, Ill.; three great- grandchildren; Mirabella, Kai, and Ayla Petty of Lee’s Summit, Mo.

Visitation is at 9 a.m. and service at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, Ill.