Harry Lester Larson, 84, of McGregor, passed away Sunday, June 28, 2026, at the Great River Care Center in McGregor. Harry was born Dec. 18, 1941, to Leonard and Thelma (Moen) Larson in Waukon. He graduated from Waukon High School with the Class of 1960 before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy.
On Nov. 22, 1963, Harry married the love of his life, Dorene Becker, at Giard United Methodist Church in Giard. They moved to California while Harry served in the Navy. While in California, their first son was born. In 1965, they moved back to Iowa, where they raised their family of four children and built a life rooted in hard work, faith and love.
Harry dedicated more than 32 years to farming, a way of life he deeply cherished. He also faithfully served his community as a bus driver for the MFL MarMac School District for 24 years and as a shuttle bus driver for the casino for 18 years. No matter where Harry worked, he was known for his dependable nature, friendly smile and willingness to visit with everyone he met.
Above all else, Harry’s greatest joy in life was his family. He held a special bond with Dorene, and together they created many happy memories, especially while dancing together over the years. It was in the simple things—family-gatherings, conversations and time spent with loved ones—that Harry found true happiness. He deeply valued his time with his grandchildren, whether it was playing cards, fishing, dancing, attending their activities or simply enjoying time together and catching up. These moments meant the world to him.
Harry leaves behind his four children, Darren (Jo) Larson of McGregor, Wendy (Kirk) Sadilek of Cedar Rapids, Todd (Kara) Larson of McGregor and Tina (Glen) Gordon of Waterloo, Wis.; 12 grandchildren, Cody (Chanice) Larson, Chris (Ayla)Larson, Derek Larson, Tristen Scallon, Jonah Scallon, Taylor Scallon (fiancé Ian), Jacob Sadilek, Peyton Sadilek (fiancé Caleb), Nick Larson, Spencer Larson, Sydney Gordon and Mackenzie Gordon; two great-grandchildren, Bowen and Layken Larson; and a special friend, Alyce Klocke.
Extended family includes Lorraine Shoemaker, Markeata Schuler, Anna Marie Ewing, Mert Phipps, Daryl (Ellen) Larson and David (Linda) Larson; Beverly Parizek and Joyce (Tom) Huinker; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.
Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorene, Leonard and Thelma Larson, Frederick and Florence Becker, Millie (Bob) Daniels, Jan (Bob) Lein, Thelma (Lester) Sampson, Gladys (Graydon) Howe, Larry Shoemaker, Adeline (Bob) Jensen, Jerry Ewing, Darlene Klein, Clark (Janet) Larson and Leland Parizek.
A visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, at Leonard-Grau Funeral Home in Monona.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10, at Giard United Methodist Church in Giard, with Rev. Linda Hauschild officiating. A viewing will be held prior to the service; however, there will be no visitation with the family.
Burial with military honors will follow at Giard Cemetery in Giard.
A celebration and meal will follow the burial at Todd’s farm, where Harry made his home, at 28113 Highway 18, McGregor. The meal will be served beginning at 3:30 p.m., with a time of celebration to follow.
Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of McGregor is assisting the family with arrangements.
