Vesta R. Larson

Vesta went home to be with the Lord June 27th at the age of 87, after a three year decline in health with dementia. She was born on October 12, 1923, in Kewanee, Illinois, where she lived until moving to Arizona in 1957. She graduated from Kewanee High School in 1941 as Salutatorian and attended both Mammoth College and Arizona State University where she earned her Master’s Degree. Vesta was a dedicated teacher for over 25 years in the public school system, played the piano and hand bells, was an avid reader, volunteered in different capacities, faithfully served in her church, a lifetime member of the Kappa Delta sorority and enjoyed outings with Walk-About Arizona. She traveled the United States, Europe, Israel, Mexico, Panama and the Caribbean Islands. However, her love for God and love for her family were her primary focus in life.

Vesta is survived by two daughters (and sons-in-"love"): Cinda (Richard) Lasinski and Gail (Jon) Kelsey; four grandchildren (and Spouses): Jason (Allison) Livensparger, Richard (Kirsten) Lasinski, Stacey Livensparger, David (Heather) Lasinski; and six great-grandchildren (a seventh due in October 2011). Vesta is also survived by a nephew, E. Grant Loum, of Johnson City, Tennessee (who was raised as her brother), and by many other nieces and nephews. Vesta was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Goldie Rodgers, two half-brothers and a half-sister.

Memorial service will be held on Friday, July 1 at 3:00 p.m. at Friendship Village, 2625 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, Arizona. A graveside service will be held later in Kewanee, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Vesta's name to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Arrangements under the direction of Carr-Tenney Mortuary, Tempe, AZ.