Wayne Larson

Wayne Arthur Larson, 77, of Rochester, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on April 13, 2019 at St. Marys Hospital. Wayne was born August 24, 1941 in Aberdeen, SD to William and Evelyn (Dame) Larson. He graduated from St. Louis Park High School then went on to receive his bachelors degree in electrical engineering from the University of Minnesota in 1963, followed by his masters in electrical engineering in 1965. Wayne began working at IBM as an electrical engineer. On December 19, 1970, Wayne married Ilona "Kitty" Rozsa at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Rochester. The couple resided in Country Club Manor where they made their first home and eldest son, Steven, joined the family in 1975. In 1976, the family welcomed daughter, Andrea. Then, in 1977, they moved to Oronoco Township. In 1980-1981 the family temporarily moved to Burlington, Vermont while Wayne furthered his education and career with IBM. Upon return to Rochester, the family once again expanded with the addition of son, Thomas, in 1982. In 1984 the family relocated to Endicott, New York, for a ten month assignment through Wayne's employment with IBM. After retiring from IBM, Wayne furthered his education again, receiving his masters in mathematics from Mankato State University in the spring of 1996. Wayne was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Wayne found great joy in volunteering at the RCTC Learning Center as a math tutor as well as volunteering his time to assist students at Hawthorne Elementary School. Wayne enjoyed creating hand carved wood projects and delighted family and friends with his creations. Wayne was a loving husband of 45 years, devoted friend to many and a father who provided his family with love, comfort and support unconditionally. Wayne will be remembered by many for his warm smile, welcoming hugs and for always making time to share his knowledge and self with those he loved. Wayne is survived by his children, Steve Larson of Milwaukee, WI, Andrea Baldwin of Des Moines, IA, Tom Larson of New Orleans, LA; grandchildren, Alexandra, Benjamin and Lawson. Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Kitty; brother, Gerald; sister, Lamae Jean, and by his parents, William and Evelyn. A memorial service to celebrate Wayne's life will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 26, 2019 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1884 22nd St. NW. Rochester with the Rev. Justin Chapman officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service. In lieu of memorial flowers the family requests donations be made to the St. Luke's Episcopal Church Capital Fund.