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.
