Orel Richard Larson

Richard (Orel) Larson passed away unexpectedly at Ecumen in Detroit Lakes on July 16, 2025, at the age of 92

Orel Richard Larson was born March 5, 1933, to Christian & Elizabeth (Lizzie Johnson) Larson at home in Audubon, MN. He attended school in Audubon until his family moved to Detroit Lakes where he graduated from Detroit Lakes High School class of 1952. Richard married Shirley (Vizenor) on April 14, 1954.

Richard is survived by his sister, Dolly Tovson, his children; Debbie (Glenn) Disse, Betty Disse, Dennis Larson, Paul (Patty) Larson, Jill Larson (Marc Blacknik) and Sherry (Rob) Kneifl, 23 grandchildren, 50 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Shirley, his son Ricky Lee Larson, his parents Christian & Lizzie Larson and his siblings: Carlyle (Myrtle) Larson, Caroline (Marvin)Sachs, Donovan (Ruth) Larson, Audrey (Howard/Al) Potter Anderson, Edith (Duane) Okeson, Dick Tovson (brother-in-law), Charles (Julie) Larson.

Richard loved being in his 18-wheeler. He was part of the “million-mile” club we’re certain. He drove for so many companies from the time he was 15, I believe he started driving milk truck in Audubon and continued driving for at least 75 more years. Richard hauled milk, beer, wheat, barley, corn, potatoes.

Every load was handled with care. Even in the last few months, he was “driving” his rig. Needing to go move his semi from the middle of the street where he was certain he had left it or waiting to get loaded or unloaded at the elevator.

Richard was known for “warming up” his semi, traveling down Highway 34 on the shoulder…. you always knew it was him.

Richard loved driving his 18-wheeler. He loved his wife & family. He loved his church and his Lord.

So Long!