Bonnie Lou Larsen

Bonnie Lou Goin was born in Albany, Oregon on January 27, 1932. Bonnie and her family lived on the Goin Farm in Jefferson, Oregon. The farm was settled by Bonnie’s ancestors when they traveled on the Oregon Trail. Bonnie enjoyed working on the farm, driving the tractor and enjoying the homemade ice cream that her mother made for the farm restaurant.

When Bonnie was nine, she, her mother, sister Veva and brother Vernon moved to Portland. Every summer as a child, Bonnie, Vernon and Veva returned to the farm with their Dad. Also, at the farm were Bonnie’s other siblings, Julia, Marty, Weltha and Sterling.

Bonnie attended Girl’s Polytech and Grant High Schools and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1950. Bonnie enjoyed signing in the choir. She was an accomplished seamstress and her first job out of high school was for the White Stag Garment Company.

In 1951, Bonnie was set up for a blind date by her close friend Betty with a spirited young man named Bud Larsen. With a quick courtship of six weeks, Bud would ask her often, “What would you say if I asked you to marry me?” to which she replied, “Ask me and find out.” And so he did. And she said yes.

On November 23, 1950, a rainy Thanksgiving Day, Bud and Bonnie were married. They honeymooned at Lake Chelan, Washington. In 1951, Bud and Bonnie welcomed their daughter Linda. Shortly after, Bud left for the Korean War. He returned in 1952 and one year later they welcomed Leola in 1953, followed by Laurie in 1955, Lester in 1956, Lyle in 1957, Lance in 1960 and Lisa in 1962. During their marriage, Bonnie and Bud enjoyed playing cards, sports, camping and enjoying the outdoors.

By early 1961, the Larsens had moved to a home on three acres in rural Washington County. Bonnie kept good care of her family by sewing, gardening, canning, cooking and baking. Some of her family’s favorites were divinity, spaghetti, dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls and butterscotch squares. During this time, she also participated in the Beaverton School District Mother’s Volleyball League.

In 1974, Bud and Bonnie moved to Prineville, Oregon. Bonnie enjoyed the sunny days, walking, crocheting, volleyball and crafting.

Bud and Bonnie were blessed between 1975 and 1994 to welcome 22 grandchildren into their lives. They spent many days enjoying vacations, special events, parties, sports and family time with their much-loved grandchildren.

Bud passed away suddenly on December 21, 1999. Bonnie moved to the Portland area one year later.

When she moved to Portland, she attended Oregon City Christian Church regularly. She traveled on multiple vacations with her children’s families, attended Curves and Tai Chi for exercise.

Bonnie was blessed to see all 22 grandchildren grow to adulthood. She also has been blessed to welcome 17 great grandchildren.

What will be remembered most of Bonnie is her kind heart, quick wit and creative spirit.

Her family takes comfort that she will be home with her Savior for Christmas.

Bonnie will be privately laid to rest in Skyline Memorial Gardens.