Gwendolyn Rosalie Larson

Services for Gwendolyn Rosalie Larson, 101, will be 2pm Saturday February 24, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church.

Gwendolyn Rosalie Larson, born on January 14, 1923, in Leoti, KS, passed away on February 16, 2024, in Lawrence, KS.

Gwen is survived by her devoted children, daughter Jill Larson-Bradney (Ed), son Warren “Mike” Larson (Georgia), four grandchildren, Michael (Janay), Amanda (Nate), Josh (Dawn) and Tyler (Lindsey) and five great-grandchildren (Gavin, Ashley, Carson Lauren and Karmann). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, E. L. “Bud” Larson.

A proud graduate of Salina High School in 1941. She met the love her life, Bud, when she and a friend had a flat tire and Bud stopped to help change the tire. Gwen was a “Rosie Riveter” during WWII in Cheyenne, Wyo. and Glendale, Calif.

After the war on August 7, 1946, she and Bud eloped to Abilene, KS. Bud borrowed $100 from a friend for them to spend a week in Kansas City. They stayed at the Aladdin Hotel and had Gwen’s favorite, Orange Julius’, during their stay. Bud brought back change from their stay!

She dedicated 20 years of her life as a Certified Physical Therapist Assistant. Her compassionate care touched the lives of many patients at Labette Health Hospital in Parsons, KS, and Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, KS.

Gwen was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Parsons, Wichita, and Lawrence, KS, where she found solace and community. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

Gwen was an avid sports fan and loved KU Football and Basketball and the KC Royals. She also watched many, many softball games while following her daughter.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will take place on Saturday, 2 PM February 24, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Lawrence, KS. Friends and family are invited to join in commemorating her legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests charitable donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church, Lawrence, KS, or St. Croix Hospice in Gwen’s honor.

The Larson family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Brandon Woods and St. Croix Hospice for their unwavering support during Gwen’s final days.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. For condolences and additional information, please contact the funeral home directly.

In honoring Gwen’s memory, let us remember her warmth, kindness, dedication, and the love she shared with all who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.

Messages & Condolences

From Evonne Cooper...

My story with Gwen goes way back to
1971 when I started as a PT aide at then St. Frances Hospital in Wichita. I graduated from PT school and returned to work there as a physical therapist for a year before marrying and moving to NE Kansas. What a pleasure it was to have known her. She was kind, gracious and fun. We had our serious times but also our fun times when we’d gather in the break room to gather for lunch followed by a good card game. Good memories and Gwen was part of them.

From kelley zimmerli...

i just loved roalie, waited on her at perkins for over 15 years, she was such a delight to see, she will so be missed, my heart is so broken and to the family… i pray for you at this most difficult time as i know how much she meant to you.

From Hannah Huggins (Criqui)...

Jill and Family, The loss of a family member is tough to bear. We were so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

From Ruby Kilmer...

So sorry to hear about your Mom’s passing Jill. We all had many good times together at ball games mostly. Besides your dad, you now have a new angel who will be taking care of you.

From Shelee Shafer...

Jill- I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. She was always such a great support for the softball teams. I’m not sure she ever missed a game. I enjoyed visiting with her at those games. May you treasure all those memories and that they comfort you in this tough time. Prayers for you and your family.

From Susie Hackathon...

I’m sorry for the loss of your mother. I know she will be missed. Remember that you will be with her again someday. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

From Deb Gurney...

I remember growing up and getting to celebrate some holidays and other family events with you. Always was glad to see you all. Gwen will be missed. My heart is with you!!!

From Debbie Walburn...

Jill and family – I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much your mother meant to all of you. She was always there supporting Jill and will continue to be there in support of all of you. I know that you will miss her greatly but know you will see her again and that she is happy being with her loving husband again. Many hugs.

From Sheila Warren....

I loved Gwen. Spending time with her was a delight. She took walks with me, spent time talking with me, and almost always participated in whatever I came up with . She loved her family with all of her heart. She is missed so much by all of us at Brandon Woods. Sending love to Jill& Ed, Mike & Georgia.

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