Dean D Larsen

Dean DuWayne Larsen, 80, of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026. His Memorial Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 in the Reformed Church in Dell Rapids with a luncheon and fellowship to follow.

Dean was born on August 16, 1945, in Madison, South Dakota, to Marvin DuWayne and Florence (Kokomo) Larsen. He grew up grounded in faith, family, and small-town values that would shape the man he became. A 1963 graduate of Colman High School, Dean went on to attend General Beadle State Teachers College (now Dakota State University) in Madison, SD, where he earned his degree in Education with a minor in English.

On December 20, 1966, he married the love of his life, Pam Olson Larsen. For 59 years, their marriage was built on faith, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Dean wore many hats throughout his life - teacher, coach, and salesman - but the roles he cherished most were husband, dad, papa, and servant of his community. He was deeply proud of his children: Tracey Larsen of Sioux Falls; Spencer (Rachel) Larsen of Sioux Falls; Brooke (Jason) McDonald of Wentworth; beloved international student Melike Pelister of Turkey; and even his four-legged fur babies, Izzy and Birdie. He was preceded in death by his son Travis James (TJ) Larsen, his parents Marvin and Florence, his mother-in-law Ruth Olson whom he had a very special bond with, his dear brother-in-law Jeff (Cheryl) Olson of Watertown, SD.

Being "Papa" was one of Dean's greatest joys. He leaves behind six grandchildren - Lily, Sophie, and Sage Larsen; Chase, Ayla, and Jadyn McDonald - and one precious great-granddaughter, Violet Larsen. Papa never missed a game, a graduation, a program, or a milestone. He showed up - every time. He called. He checked in. He encouraged. He supported. His grandchildren knew without question that they were deeply loved.

Dean is also survived by his siblings, Bernie (Roxi) Larsen of Columbus, OH, and Dorothy (Jerry) Kardatzke of Columbus, OH. Along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Dean faced bladder and lymphoma cancer, along with other significant health challenges, with the same steady faith that defined his life. His trust in God carried him through long days and difficult seasons. He chose gratitude over bitterness and hope over fear. His strength was quiet but unwavering, rooted deeply in the faith he had built over a lifetime.

A man of strong and steady faith, Dean grew up in the Methodist Church and remained deeply committed to his walk with God throughout his life. He was one of the founders of The Lighthouse at the United Methodist Church in Dell Rapids and was active in Promise Keepers and The Walk to Emmaus for many years. In recent years, he attended Dell Rapids Reformed Church. His faith was not just something he spoke about - it was something he lived. He was proud of his relationship with God and often reminded those around him, "It's God's day."

Dean gave generously to his community. He served many years on the Dell Rapids City Council and later as mayor, leading with care and dedication. He was deeply involved with the Dell Rapids Golf Course and invested his time wherever he felt he could make a difference.

He loved to sing - in church and at weddings with his father and wherever there was a chance to lift his voice. During his college years, he participated in several musicals. He performed in community theater in Britton, SD, and directed and performed in The Last Supper for many years at the United Methodist Church in Dell Rapids. He enjoyed hunting with his son Spencer, friends, and other family members. He loved golfing, playing cards, going on walks, and attending every grandchild activity he possibly could. He loved visiting the Black Hills and enjoyed taking his convertible for a drive. He was a gifted storyteller, easily amused, quick to laugh, and known - lovingly - for being just a bit frugal.

After the unexpected passing of his father, Dean stepped up in quiet strength to care for his mother in any way she needed. In later years he showed the same diligent compassion for his mother-in-law, Ruth. That steady, sacrificial love defined him. He was patient. Generous. Loyal. Selfless. Caring and supportive beyond measure. He didn't just love his family - he showed it.

Dean lived a life marked by service, faith, humor, and devotion. Those who knew him were blessed - truly blessed - to have known him and to have been loved by him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to The Banquet and The Dougherty Hospice House

In accordance with Dean's long-held wishes, his body will be donated to the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine Body Donation Program following his passing, where it will be used in the medical school's cadaver laboratory to help train future doctors and healthcare professionals through hands-on study of human anatomy. This selfless gift supports vital medical education, allowing students to learn from real human anatomy in ways textbooks and models cannot before the remains are respectfully cremated and handled according to program guidelines.

Dean's legacy lives on in the stories that will continue to be told, the faith he passed down, and in the simple, powerful words he never failed to say: "Love you."

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