Obituary of Keith R. Larson

Keith R. Larson Sr., 89, passed away in his home on Saturday, January 15 surrounded by family. Keith was born August 12, 1921 in Niles, Michigan to Anna (Rau) and Edward Larson. He was the fourth of five children. On November 10, 1945, after returning from service overseas, Keith married Eva (Brown) Larson who survives. He was the proud father of four children: Keith "Jack" Jr. (Diane), Edward (Marge), Margaret and Larry (Jeanine). He was blessed with six grandchildren: Cassandra Ornelas, Stephen Larson, Geoff Dunnuck, Todd Dunnuck, Heather Reed and Amy Pierce and 10 great grandchildren. During WWII, he served his country proudly in North Africa, Italy, England and France as a member of the 15th Troop Carrier Squadron of the Army Air Corp. For many years, Keith and Eva were active participants in the reunion group of the 15th and have retained those friendships up to present day. Many of Keith's fondest memories were of travels back to England with his Army buddies to revisit areas where they served and to reminisce about the efforts that made them all part of the greatest generation. Keith worked as a Service Parts Manager at Tyler Refrigeration for 30 years, retiring in 1976. After retirement, he remained active volunteering over 6000 hours at Pawating Hospital and gaining status as a Lifetime Member of the Hospital Auxiliary. He also generously volunteered his time with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society and the Knights of Columbus in Niles including serving as Grand Knight of Council 708. Keith was a founding member of St. Mark Catholic Church in Niles and over the years served as an usher, lector and choir member. His interests included square dancing, needlepoint and reading. Keith was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Duane, Vernon ("Squirmy") and Don Larson and sister, Marge Meyers. As a final act of generosity, Keith donated his body to science. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Keith's memory to The Brian Parker Foundation 2469 Lone Elm Lane, Niles MI 49120 A rosary service, led by family friends Ed and Alice Drada, will be held on Thursday, January 20 at 5:30pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Street, Niles, Michigan. A time of visitation with the family will follow from 6-7:30pm. The family thanks those who reached out with compassion and prayers. They especially appreciate the efforts of the staff of West Woods of Niles for the care they provided, Drs. George Kolettis and Christopher Strayhorn for their help and encouragement and the staff of Lakeland Hospice for the support they provided during Keith's final days.