Bertha E. Larson

Funeral services for Bertha E. Larson of Morris, MN, formerly of Donnelly, will be held Friday, January 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Kongsvinger Lutheran Church, rural Donnelly, with Reverend Rochelle Anderson officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris and for one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Kongsvinger Lutheran Cemetery, rural Donnelly.

Bertha Evaline Lois Leo was born on January 16, 1922, in Donnelly Township, Stevens County, Minnesota, to Robert and Luella (Wilts) Leo. She was a proud graduate of Herman High School. On March 16, 1941, Bertha was married to Arden Larson of Donnelly. They farmed and raised their six children near Donnelly. As Arden’s retirement neared in the 1970’s, they built a new home in Donnelly where Bertha lived until she moved into West Central Homes in Morris at the age of 98. In 2021, she moved to The Legacy in Morris where she lived until her death.

Bertha was a longtime member of Kongsvinger Lutheran Church and served on many committees and circles at the church as well as a member of KLCW and a Sunday school teacher. Bertha was also a 4-H leader for many years and volunteered at the Stevens County Hospital Gift Shop. She loved to travel and was the consummate shopper. Most of all, she cherished her family. Her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the great-great-grandchildren brought her so much joy. Bertha will always be remembered for her homemade doughnuts. 

Bertha died peacefully on Christmas morning, with family at her side. She was 102 years old.

Bertha is survived by her children: Donald (Algene) of Donnelly, Janice (Roger) Halverson of Minneapolis, Gayle (Phil) Dalseth of Mendota Heights, Jody (Jeff) Loher of Donnelly, and Jon (Bev) of Herman; daughter-in-law, Corrine (Larry) Larson of Moorhead; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Bertha was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Arden (d.1989); son, Elroy ‘Butch’ (d.2002); grandson, Steve Larson (d.2016); and one sister, Dorothy Jergenson and her husband, Alfred.

Suggested memorials may be made to Kongsvinger Cemetery Fund or Glacial Ridge Hospice.

Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris, MN are in the care of arrangements for Bertha.