Loretta Ann Larson

Loretta Ann (Schulte) Larson
March 11, 1936 – July 30, 2025

Loretta Ann Larson, age 89, of Geddes, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at Platte Care Center with Avera Hospice care, after a life well-lived and full of love, laughter, and service.

Born a twin to her sister Luella on March 11, 1936, Loretta was the daughter of John and Emma (Kubal) Schulte. She grew up in Geddes and graduated from Geddes High School in 1953. Shortly after graduation, she married the love of her life, Enoch Larson, on June 16, 1953. Together, they raised a lively household of five sons. While living in Stickney, SD, they welcomed Steven, Michael, and Robert. After relocating back to Geddes, Ronald and Kevin completed their family.

Loretta was truly the definition of a proud "boy mom," wholeheartedly devoted to her sons and, later, to their families. She juggled the responsibilities of motherhood with a variety of roles over the years-serving as the family's unofficial accountant, working at the Geddes Grocery Store, and spending 17 years at Fort Randall Casino. Yet it was the outdoors where Loretta's heart thrived. She loved life on the farm and took great pride in keeping her yard in pristine condition. She also dedicated countless hours to helping maintain the Geddes Cemetery, mowing and caring for the grounds alongside friends. Her tireless work ethic, deep appreciation for nature, and love of staying active defined much of who she was. Inside the home, Loretta had a natural talent for painting and wallpapering, finding budget-friendly, creative ways to refresh a space and make it feel welcoming.

After Enoch's passing, Loretta found companionship and love again when she married Dale Larson on August 28, 1999. Their years together brought renewed purpose and comfort, surrounded by family, friends, and the town she so dearly loved.

A woman of deep faith, Loretta was an active member of St. Ann Catholic Church, where she taught catechism for many years and participated in the Altar Society. She was also involved in the Civic Club and served on her township's election board for many years. Loretta was the kind of person who brought energy into every room-always ready to play cards, swap stories, and tell it to you straight. Her quick wit, love for laughter, and honest nature made her unforgettable. She had an uncanny memory, especially for birthdays, and kept the tradition of baking angel food cake for every birthday she could.

Loretta made her home at Twilight Vista for the last four years, where her sharp one-liners and playful spirit kept everyone on their toes. In her final months, she transitioned to Platte Care Center under the attentive care of Avera Hospice.

Loretta is survived by her twin sister, Luella Parthenay (Washougal, WA); her sons Steven (Cherry) Larson of Mt. Vernon, SD; Ronald (Dianne) Larson of Sioux Falls, SD; and Kevin (Lisa) Larson of Erie, PA; daughter-in-law Susan Larson of Harrisburg, SD; and stepchildren Owen Larson (Casper, WY), Leonard Larson (Casper, WY), and Amanda Scott (Lake Andes, SD).

She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Susan Schulte (Geddes, SD), Linda Dodds (White Lake, SD), and Phyllis Wallin (Paullina, IA); 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Enoch and Dale; sons, Michael and Robert; stepson, Brian Larson; siblings Mary Ann (Ray) Winders, Lawrence (Cleo) Schulte, Frank (Norma) Schulte, Margaret (John) Preuss, Jim Schulte; brother-in-law Jack Parthenay; and great-grandson Austen Jones.

Loretta's vibrant personality, generous heart, and deep love for her family and community will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.

Mass of Christian Burial for Loretta Larson, age 89, of Geddes, SD, will be held on Friday August 8, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St Ann Catholic Church in Geddes, SD. Burial will follow in St Ann Cemetery, Geddes, SD. The Rosary will be said at 9:30AM that morning with visitation to follow until service time.