Melvin Alfred Larson

Melvin Alfred Larson was born on November 19, 1917 in Artichoke Township, Big Stone County, the son of Michael and Minda (Stenstuen) Larson. Melvin was baptized and confirmed at Drywood Congregation. Melvin attended parochial school at the Artichoke Church and District 65 through the 8th grade. He walked to school with his friends along the route. After finishing his schooling, he began working with his dad on the family farm.

On June 9, 1940 Melvin was united in marriage to Alice Gronholz at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Shible Township. To this union they were blessed with a son, Merlyn. In the early years of their married life, they farmed in Swift County on a farmstead near Milan. In 1949 they moved to his parents’ farm in Artichoke Township where his family continues to farm today. Melvin held various jobs at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, including laying of the foundation and building of the church. As a couple, Melvin and Alice enjoyed many nights of dancing at the Foxwood in Appleton. One of their favorite pastimes was visiting friends in the Chokio and Milan area.

Melvin saw many changes in farming over the years; from shoeing horses to owning his first Allis Chalmers. He milked cows, raised hogs, chickens, and mink. His son Merlyn and daughter-in-law Nancy lived on the farm site alongside him and Alice. Their boys; Doug, Randy, and Brian were able to spend countless hours with their grandparents. Melvin enjoyed teaching them to hunt and trap. Because of his love of baseball, he would hit fly balls to them. They also played Annie-I-Over, marbles, cards, duck and goose, and many other games. Melvin and Alice attended all sporting and school events the boys were involved in. Oh, the memories we could include from the great-grandchildren!

Melvin and Alice farmed until their retirement in 1982. They then purchased a home in Appleton; Melvin stayed busy mowing lawns throughout the community, trimming bushes, and working at the ice rink. He also had a small garden and enjoyed woodworking projects. Melvin and Alice were married for over 60 years until Alice passed away on March 14, 2001.

Melvin made many friends during his 34 years in Appleton. He attended meals at the Nutrition Center where he played bingo, cards, and put together puzzles. It was there where he met Frances Bahl. It was a joy to watch their relationship grow; they were each other’s best friend. They enjoyed each other’s companionship and attended countless church and family gatherings together.

Melvin resided in his home until August of 2015 when his health deteriorated due to bone cancer and was moved to the Appleton Area Nursing Home.

He will always be remembered for his positive outlook on life and his funny and loving personality. His wit made him irresistibly charming. He may not have told us in words how to live, but he sure did show us. He valued kindness and honesty.

Melvin, a blessed husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2016 after reaching 98 years, 4 months, 19 days.  Melvin is survived by his son: Merlyn (Nancy) Larson of Correll; grandchildren:  Douglas (Amy) Larson of Appleton, Randall (Sashya) Larson of Morris, Brian Larson of Prior Lake:  great grandchildren; Chet (Nicole) of Ortonville, Stone Larson of Alexandria, Tanner Larson of Washington, CaliJo and Rylan Larson of Morris, Jordan Larson of Texas, Lexi and Braydan Larson of Prior Lake:  brother; Chester Larson of Appleton; sisters: Eleanor Anderson of Massachusetts and Gerta Saulsbury of Willmar. He is preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Minda; wife: Alice; sisters: Mildred VanWinkle and Luella Jagow; Sister-in-law Erna Larson; Brothers-in-law: Howard VanWinkle, Willard Anderson, Ken Saulsbury, and Clarence Jagow.


Blessed be the memory of Melvin Larson.