Vernon J. "Butch" Larson Sr.

Vernon J. Larson, Sr.

Vernon J. "Butch" Larson, Sr., age 93, of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, surrounded by his adoring family.

Vernon was born in New Richmond, Wisconsin, to Axel and Josephine Larson, a place he called home for the majority of his life. Even in his later years, he cherished rides through New Richmond, delighting in both familiar landmarks and the changes taking place. In 1957, he met Marion Roettger, and after a brief courtship, they were married on December 14. He was instantly smitten, and together they built a life that grew to include eight children.

Hard work defined Vernon's life. From a young age, he learned the value of diligence and responsibility, beginning his working years in adolescence at the Friday Canning Company. Over the years, he acquired a wide range of skills, driving truck for Moore and Monlock, working at the Connolly Shoe Factory, the Arsenal, and eventually retiring from Andersen Windows. Retirement, however, did not suit him. True to his tireless nature, he joined Walmart in St. Croix Falls, where he worked 40 hours a week as a greeter until the age of 83, offering a smile and kind word to everyone who walked through the door. Inspired by his uncle, Alfred Larson, Vernon also graduated from the Worldwide College of Auctioneering on March 15, 1969, adding yet another way to serve his community.

Vernon found little need for leisure; his greatest fulfillment came from serving others. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps until 1953, when he was discharged to help care for his younger siblings following the death of his father. His sense of duty endured, and he later joined the National Guard, where he served as an active member of the Color Guard for many years, marching in countless parades.

If anything, surpassed Vernon's strong work ethic and patriotism, it was his genuine love for people-especially children. He had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen and welcomed, often drawing them in with corny jokes, silly rhymes, or heartfelt stories. He was frequently found playing Santa Claus, volunteering as an auctioneer for bake sales and fundraising events benefiting schools and child-centered organizations and serving faithfully as an Awana leader at Alliance Church of the Valley. Vernon knew no strangers and was a fierce defender of the marginalized, offering compassion freely and without hesitation.

While his passing leaves a deep void, Vernon's legacy of hard work, kindness, and service lives on in the countless lives he touched. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Marion; his children, Vern, Kathy (Dan) Herwick, Pam (Mike) Koch, Ken, Bill, Mike (Janis), Jodi (Brad) Kalpin, and Bobbi (Will) Michler; 24 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; his brother, Doug (Maryanne) Larson; many nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of friends who were blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, William Kuehl; brothers: Axel, Robert, Allen, and Tom; sisters: Marie, Bernice, Anna Marie, and Barbara.

Live stream will be available via acv.online.church.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the Alliance Church of the Valley in St. Croix Falls, WI. A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 pm, Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, Wisconsin and will continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Arrangements are with the Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, WI. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com.