Emma Larsen

1936 - 2025

Emma Lorraine Larsen passed away October 24, 2025 at Tabitha Assisted Living in Grand Island, Neb.

Lorraine, as she was known to family and friends, was born October 5, 1936 in the Badlands of South Dakota. Along with her parents, Joseph and Elsie Kudrna, siblings Frances Stensaas, Lorraine grew up on the ranch homesteaded by her grandparents in 1906.

Lorraine attended school in Imlay and held beloved memories of her teacher, Mrs. Murphy. After completing two elementary grades in one year, she graduated at 16 from Rapid City High School. She worked as a secretary at an insurance firm before meeting and marrying Kieth Larsen. They established their home on 71 Table and welcomed five children – Sharon (Craig) Nienhueser, Peggy (Mikel) Kroeger, Laura Mosby, Donna (Mike) Holleran, and Clifford Larsen. Keith and Lorraine moved the family to Castle Colorado in 1966. There Keith began what would become his life's work in carpentry and construction. They moved to Wauneta, Neb., in 1969, establishing Kielo Construction and later, Home Lumber. The lumberyard closed in 1985. They then moved to Smithville, Mo., in 1988 and ran 169 Liquor Store until 2005. For her retirement they returned to Nebraska, living briefly in Arlington before moving to Hastings.

Lorraine is preceded in death by her parents, husband; sister, Marge; and her brother-in-law, Edwin.

Survivors include her five children; siblings, Fran and Sonnie; brother-in-law, Gale Shellito; nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A family memorial service is being planned for Spring 2026. Apfel Funeral Home is assisting the family.