Lyle Larson SR.

Lyle Larson Sr., of Appleton, passed away Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at Appleton Area Health at the age of 98.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St. John's Catholic Church in Appleton with Father Brian Mandel officiating. Burial will be Tuesday, July 1 at 2:30PM at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Willow River, MN.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.

Lyle Edward Larson was born on April 27, 1927, in Moose Lake, Minnesota, to Paul and Evelyn (Martinson) Larson. He attended and graduated from Moose Lake High School in 1945. After high school, Lyle enlisted in the United State Army serving during World War II.

On June 19, 1948, Lyle was united in marriage to Vera Mecl. Together they raised six children. On March 1, 1976, Lyle and Vera moved to Milan, Minnesota, where they continued to build a life centered around family and community.

Lyle was widely known for his exceptional musical talents. Whether playing the bass, organ, or keyboard, he performed entirely by ear, with remarkable skill. He spent many years playing polka music alongside his brother Howie, traveling extensively to perform at polka church services.

Beyond music, Lyle cherished time with his family—especially enjoying playing baseball and simply being together. In their later years, Lyle and Vera wintered in Texas, where they delighted in dancing and listening to live music.

Lyle is survived by his children, Bill (Babe) Larson of Willow River, Sue Streed of Milan, Lyle (Lisa) Larson of Big Bend, Bob (Denise) Larson of Sugarland, TX and Kathy Green of Crookston; son-in-law, Troy Bartolo of Anoka; 12 grandchildren; 25 + great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-granddaughter; sister-in-law, Eleanor Larson of Silver Bay; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vera in 2018; daughter, Mary Bartolo; grandsons, Paul Larson and Jason Larson; brother, Howie Larson; sisters, Edy Swenson and Millie Severson; and son-in-law, Greg Streed.