Roy Joseph Larson

ROCHESTER:Roy Joseph Larson, age 85, of Rochester passed away on Wednesday, October 5. Roy was born in Benson, Minnesota on July 2, 1926. He graduated from Benson High School in 1944. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II (Pacific Theatre). He was a graduate of the University Minnesota Institute of Technology (B.S. Civil Engineering) in 1950. On June 2, 1951 he married Louise R. Nistler from Eden Valley, Minnesota.They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.Survivors include his wife Louise, sons Robert J. (Ann Newgard-Larson) Larson from Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Ronald G. (Beatrice) Larson from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Jerry (Darlene) Larson from Rochester, Minnesota, David (Denise) from Durham, North Carolina; eight grandchildren, Brad, Rachel, Emily, Steve, Andrew, Libby, Eric, and Katie; one sister, Anne Miller of St. Cloud, Minnesota and one brother Lawrence (MaryAnn) Larson of Benson, MN. Roy was preceded in death by his son Steven W. Larson and two sisters,Delphine (Dolly) Groh,and Harriet Miller. Roy was employed by the State of Minnesota Department of Transportation for 38 years. He served as Assistant District Engineer of District 4 at Detroit Lakes, Minnesota and the last 13 years as District Engineer of District 6 (headquartered in Rochester, Minnesota). He retired in June of 1987.Roy was a member of the following organizations: National Society of Professional Engineers and State Society Southeast Minnesota Chapter, Minnesota Surveyors and Engineering Society, American Legion, Elks Club, and National Rifle Association. Roy enjoyed fishing and hunting. Roy and Louise enjoyed travel as well as visiting their family and friends. They spent many memorable summers at their lake place in Northern Minnesota. They also spent a number of winters in Mesa, Arizona. They enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren (Brad, Rachel, Emily, Steve, Andrew, Libby, Eric, and Katie). Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 8 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home,5421 Royal Place, NW, Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 9 at 2 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home with Father Joseph Fogal and Pastor Ann Newgard-Larson co-officiating.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Salvation Army or Channel 1 Food Bank. www.ranfranzandvinefh.com