Wayne David Larson

Wayne D. Larson, age 81 of Elmwood, WI, formerly of River Falls, WI, passed away November 25, 2020 at the Rochester Mayo Clinic – St. Mary’s Campus. Wayne was born April 29, 1939 to Viola & George Larson in River Falls, WI.  After graduating from River Falls High School, he enlisted in the United States military and served as an Army Ranger until he was honorably discharged.  Wayne went to college at University of Wisconsin – River Falls and the University of Minnesota.  In 1965, he was married to Bonnie Andrle, and they had 3 sons. Wayne worked as a Lab Tech in San Diego, at a fishery in Marquette, MI, drove cab in St. Paul, MN and worked at the Veterans’ Administration in Minneapolis until retirement.

Wayne was an avid pool player and crossword enthusiast. He enjoyed reading, traveling, and learning about history.   He also enjoyed visiting with others and made sure everyone was his pal.  Wayne was always dressed up and topped with his signature hat which made him well known around the area.  He became his grandson Sebastian’s biggest fan. He would go to all the meets and became known in the arenas as “Grandpa.”

Wayne is survived by his sister, Judy; his sons, Scott, Jeffrey and & Todd; grandchildren: Sebastian, Corey, Jordan, Kyler, Amanda and Nikki; great grandchildren: Lucy, Jace, Delilah, Theodore, Cooper and Jately; as well as nieces and nephews: Ramie, Angie, Mitchell, Renee & Randy.

Wayne was preceded in death by his brothers, Larry, Jimmy and Terry; mother, Viola; and his Father, George.

A memorial luncheon honoring Wayne will take place 1:30 – 3:00 pm Saturday, May 15, 2021 at the West Wind in River Falls.

Arrangements are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home of River Falls (715) 425-5644.  www.oconnellfuneralservices.com