Edwin "Ed" Larson

To watch a recording of the service, please use the link: https://youtu.be/XAvK-f-0VIw 

Edwin "Ed" Larson, a treasured soul and devoted family man, passed away surrounded by family on August 30, 2024, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. 

Edwin Lynn Larson was the third of four children born to George William and Alice Elizabeth (Craft) Larson on April 3, 1945, in Grafton, ND. Ed's journey began in St. Thomas, ND, where he attended school and graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1963. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Shortly after enlisting in the military, he married the love of his life Barbara Kasprick on June 28th, 1964 in Grafton, ND. He served with distinction for four years. Ed's dedication and skill in repairing and maintaining the M2 Browning and .20-millimeter cannon on board the B-52 Stratofortress were sources of immense pride for him, culminating in his honorable discharge. Ed returned to his roots in ND where he and his beloved wife Barb embarked on a lifelong journey together in Grand Forks. From this union four children were born: Mark, Craig, Bill and Brent. 

Ed found fulfillment in his work at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company, dedicating over 30 years to the industry. Following his "first" retirement, he worked for Digi-Key and was later sought out by the University of North Dakota to assist with their tele-communication systems. His innate ability, exceptional talents and strong work ethic soon made him an irreplaceable asset. He continued working full-time until he finally retired for good in 2016. 

Ed was lovingly referred to as "the ultimate grandpa," a title that reflected his passion for family and deep-seated involvement in his grandchildren's lives. He never missed a school activity, and relished the moments spent cheering them on, sharing in their successes and offering support. Family gatherings were filled with laughter, stories and shared experiences, all of which Ed cherished immensely. Ed exemplified kindness, commitment and an unwavering devotion to his family and friends. 

His personal interests included hunting, fishing, reading, and spending time at the lake, pursuits that often-provided serene escapes and joyful moments with those he loved. 

Ed is survived by his loving wife Barb of 60 years; children; Mark (Jolene) Larson, Craig Larson (Cynthia Gardewine), William (Stacey) Larson and Brent (Teri) Larson; grandchildren: Sara (Dan) Pantalion, Evan, Lauryn, Zachary, Liam Larson and soon-to-be great-grandson Pantalion; step-grandchildren: Avery, Bella and Addy Osborn; and special friend, Dani Rae; siblings: Connie Knain, Karen Duncan and Doug Larson; along with many other nieces, nephews, family members and friends. 

Ed is preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, two brothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law. 

A Memorial Service is scheduled for 10:30am on Friday, September 6th at Zion United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. 

As we honor Ed Larson's life, let us remember him as a man of unwavering love and commitment, a mentor and guide to many, and a dedicated family man whose heart was always open to those he adored. His legacy will live on through the lives of his beloved family, ensuring that his warmth, humor, and love will endure in their memories.