LeRoy Larson passed away December 25, 2020 at the age of 81. A Celebration of Life service was held on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 11 a.m. A recording of the service is available at the following link: LeRoy Larson Funeral Service (Passcode: B?E&2Mw% ). Cards can be shared with LeRoy’s family c/o Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation (104 First Street West, Jordan, MN 55352)
Memorials can be sent on behalf of LeRoy Larson to: American Swedish Institute, Attn: Development Office, 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55407
On September 4, 1939, Harry & Gena (Sherva) Larson celebrated the birth of their son, LeRoy Wilbur Larson. LeRoy was raised in Clearwater County, and he grew up playing old-time Scandinavian music. LeRoy always had an artist’s heart, and he was able to pursue his lifelong passion for music.
After graduating from high school, LeRoy attended Bemidji State. He later completed his Master’s degree at Indiana University and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. While at Bemidji, LeRoy met Dian Peterson. The two were married and blessed with three wonderful children, Laura, Beret and Erik. They divorced in 1976.
Professionally, LeRoy had many significant accomplishments. His first career was as a music educator in Climax and La Crescent, Minnesota, directing band and choir. He also directed a local show choir. After completing his studies, LeRoy focused his career on being a musician, composer, musicologist, folklorist and record producer. LeRoy founded LeRoy’s River Minstrels , and the Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble . Both groups were known for giving performances that were entertaining, skillful and educational. For over 25 years, the ensemble performed at festivals, dances, concerts, parties and on radio and television programs. LeRoy was proud to receive a Minnesota Music Award on behalf of the Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble in 1989. The time he spent with his fellow musicians were some of his most cherished times.
During his time with the ensemble, LeRoy met his second wife, Dione Post. They loved to travel, with some of their favorite spots being Hawaii and Florida. Married for over 30 years, LeRoy and Dione divorced in 2014.
LeRoy’s passion was music. He passed this love on to his children. When he wasn’t pursuing his passion for music, LeRoy wrote poems and even published a few books of his poetry. He also enjoyed downhill skiing, genealogy and telling jokes. LeRoy had a great sense of humor, and he loved to laugh! LeRoy was also mechanical, refurbishing a 1947 Ford Coupe and restoring it to its original glory.
The last 20 years of his life, LeRoy enjoyed working as a substitute teacher in Stillwater. He loved spending time at his home in Lakeland Shores and enjoyed being on the river. In recent years, LeRoy moved into McKenna Crossing in Prior Lake to be closer to his children and grandchildren.
Over the years, LeRoy truly lived the artists’ lifestyle and loved sharing his musical gifts with others.
LeRoy will be remembered and kept in the hearts of his second wife, Dione Post; first wife, Dian Erickson and their children, Laura Larson, Beret (Dave) Skroch and Erik (Angie) Erickson; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; brother, David (Mona) Larson.
Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation proudly serves the Larson family. www.BallardSunderFuneral.com
