Donald Larson

Donald E. Larson, age 80, of Winona, passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 20, 2020, at Lake Winona Manor, Winona MN, after a recent diagnosis of cancer.

Donald E. Larson was born September 16, 1939 in Winona to Donald and Margaret (Jasnoch) Larson. He attended Winona schools and enlisted in the U.S. army from November 5, 1958, until February 20, 1962. He met Karen Chartier and knew after one blind date that he was going to marry her. They were married on June 6, 1964, in Winona.  Karen preceded him in death on February 17, 2001.

Donnie had many different careers throughout his life. He worked summers while in high school with his father for Winona Monument Company. His first bartending job was at the Oasis on 5th Street. He had fond memories of this first job and loved all the people. He then went on to own K's Korral Nodine and The Bucket in Dodge, WI. Don was employed at Winona Monument Company, ORC Industries in Winona and most recently until last summer at RTP. Throughout these careers he met many people who became dear friends.

Donnie enjoyed all sports, The Minnesota Twins, The Gophers, and especially the Green Bay Packers. They still speak of trips to Green Bay in their Packers bus. All four of Donnie's children love the Packers and could be heard reminiscing about the last game. This love for sports has been passed on to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren too. Most of us enjoyed a Minnesota Twins game in September to celebrate Donnie's 80th birthday. Donnie also enjoyed the many trips he took with his siblings, including train rides and casino bus trips. Donnie also enjoyed his weekly trips to Black River Falls with his buddies.

Donnie is survived by his four children: Mark (Cammie) Larson of Eau Claire, WI, Tracy Larson of Winona, Scott (Anne) Larson of Utica, MN, and Stephanie (Phil Haney) of Winona. Donnie is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Derek and Lauren Larson, Dustin (Stephanie) Larson, Tyler Larson, Devon Larson, Payton Palmquist and Kara Palmquist, Dominic Redden, Hailey and Karlie Larson. Donnie is also survived by 2 great-grandchildren, Michael and Ahlexa Larson. Donnie is also survived by 12 siblings: Judy Lockwood, Goodview; Robert (Diane) Larson, Goodview; Bruce (Shirleen) Larson, Goodview; Sandy (Robert) Stroinski, Winona; Susie (Robert) Block, Winona; David (Mary) Larson, Leonardtown, MD; Kathy (Robert) Hazelton, La Crescent, MN; Gary (GiGi) Larson, Goodview; Debby (John) Guenther, Rollingstone; Cindy (Roland) Boland, Winona; Cheri (AI Heaser) Tentis, Altura; and Randy Larson, Winona. Donnie is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended families. He is also survived by in-laws Darell Russeau, Terry (Kristi) Sand, and Donna Chartier. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen; parents; sister, Donna Huwald; mother-in-law: Florence Sand; in-laws: Norven Lockwood, Pete Tentis, Gary Huwald, Marcia Russeau, and Ronald Chartier.

The family would like to thank all the staff at Winona Health, Lake Winona Manor and Winona Hospice. The love and support during this past month was greatly appreciated.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11:30 AM on Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home.  Chaplain Ronia Frelund will officiate.  The American Legion Leon J. Wetzel Post 9 of Winona will provide military honors at the funeral home following the service.  A luncheon and reception will be held at the Winona Red Men’s Club, 176 West Third Street.  A private family burial will be held in the spring.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Donnie’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.