Larry Larson

LaVern (Larry) Dean Larson, born on November 18, 1949, passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025, in Kearney, Nebraska, surrounded by his loving family.

Larry was born and raised in Broken Bow, Nebraska, to Harold and Opal (Neth) Larson and graduated from Broken Bow High School in 1968. He then enrolled at the University of Nebraska at Kearney for 2 years before enlisting in the army in December of 1970, where he was stationed at Key West, Florida.

He married Cathy Jo (Cool) on November 28, 1970. Larry was the proud father of three daughters: Heather Jo, born in 1972, Angela Marie, born in 1977, and Allison Rae, born in 1979.

After the death of his father, in 1973, Larry received a hardship discharge from the Army to care for and manage his family’s farm south of Broken Bow, where he lived until the summer of 1979, at which time he moved the family to town. Larry was a hardworking man and was employed at International Dealership, Allis-Chalmers Dealership, Ford Dealership, and John Deere during the course of his working career. He retired from John Deere after 28 years, as parts manager.

His interests went far beyond just work, as he enjoyed a variety of activities such as woodworking, fly tying, shooting, photography, fishing, card playing, and reloading. He shared these interests with his grandchildren over the years, who were his greatest pride and joy. His dedication to his family was admired by all, as he spent time with all those that he could, from the Neth cousins, to sons-in-law, to his beloved grandchildren, and to the people that those he loved brought into their lives.

In the 80s, Larry was approached by an old friend by the name of Roy Stamp, who requested a favor. Larry agreed without hesitation or even knowledge of what he had agreed to, but it led to his and Cathy’s love of square dancing for over 25 years. This participation also led them to help organize the Tom and Jerry square dancing event that occurred every Labor Day Weekend in Broken Bow. Through the community of square dancing, deep and lasting friendships formed.

Larry is survived by his wife Cathy, Broken Bow, his three daughters, Heather(Andy) Schmidt, Broken Bow, Angela (Leland) Stump, Hampton, NE, Allison (Blaine) McDonald, Norfolk, NE his six grandchildren, step-grandchildren Luke and Delaney Schmidt, Idaho Falls, Idaho, grandchildren Emmaleigh, Korbin, Reis Stump, Hampton, Nolan McDonald, Norfolk and many, many cousins and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Opal Larson, in-laws, Harold and Bonnie Cool, and granddaughter Lexandra Lorene Larson.

His absence will be felt by many throughout his family and the community of Broken Bow, but his memory and cherished moments will forever live on through the lives that he has touched throughout his own.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Govier Brothers Chapel in Broken Bow. Burial will follow in the Broken Bow Cemetery with Military Honors. Memorials are suggested to 4-H Shooting Club or Prairie Pioneer Center. A visitation will be held on Friday, June 13th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Govier Brothers Mortuary. Govier Brothers Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Online words of remembrance or encouragement may be left at www.govierbrothers.com.

Memorials are suggested to 4-H Shooting Club or Prairie Pioneer Center