Laura Mae Larson - Dosdall

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Mae Larson - Dosdall, who left this world peacefully on February 20, 2025, at the age of 99½. Born on August 4, 1925, in Starbuck, Minnesota. Laura was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, devoted homemaker, and cherished friend to many. Laura was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church in rural Starbuck by Reverend G.O. Forde, marking the beginning of her lifelong journey of faith. She graduated from Starbuck High School, followed by her education at the St. Cloud School of Cosmetology. 

On December 18, 1948, Laura married the love of her life, Elmo L. Larson, at her parents’ home. Three children were born to this union, Ronnie, Bruce, and Steve. Together, they created a life on their farm in Urness Township, seven miles north of Kensington, where they lived happily for nearly 50 years. Laura and Elmo loved to go dancing and they frequented many local dance halls with friends. Together they embraced life and enjoyed many trips to basketball games and tournaments to watch their grandsons, often traveling with Lani’s parents.

Laura was deeply involved in her faith community at West Moe Lutheran Church in Brandon, where she not only taught Sunday school but also served on the board of the ALCW. Her commitment to her community extended beyond the church; she held positions on the Farmers Union Board and the West Central Community Action Board. Professionally, Laura wore many hats. She worked as a beautician at Myrtle's Beauty Shop in Kensington, a teacher’s aide at Holmes City Schools, and was the site manager at the Hoffman Nutrition Center for Lutheran Social Services for 17 years, retiring in 1997. She also kept busy working at Andes Tower Hill Ski Resort and Ron's Warehouse.

Following Elmo's passing, Laura found companionship with Orlyn (Ole) Dosdall, marrying him on September 5, 1998, at West Moe Lutheran Church. They divided their time between the farm, Mesa, AZ, and Monarch, MT during the winters. Since 2003, she/they made their home at Hawthorne Estates in Alexandria. Laura had a green thumb and loved to garden and maintained a bountiful vegetable garden that she and Elmo proudly tended. Canning brought her joy, just as much as cooking for family and friends did. Everyone who tasted her legendary meatballs knows that no one could create them quite like Laura. Her Christmas treats, from perfectly made rosettes to mouthwatering lefse, were a testament to her culinary talent. Laura was an avid card shark, playing often and usually winning at Whist. She also loved bingo, marbles and any other competitive activity which she continued to do until she died.

Those who knew Laura appreciated her warm nature; she always had a smile and a welcoming spirit that made everyone feel at ease. Happiness, kindness, patience and occasional feistiness were the cornerstones of her character, leaving a lasting imprint on all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Laura is preceded in death by her parents, son Bruce (1989), husband Elmo (1994), husband Ole (2015), brothers Robert (Bob) and Odell and many close neighbors and friends.

She is survived by sons Ron (Lani) of St. Francis, MN and Steve of Kensington, MN, daughter-in-law Pam Larson of Kensington, sister-in-law Cecelia Ronnei of Alexandria. Grandchildren Brady (Isatu) Larson, Jay (Mary) Larson, Rory (Ericka) Larson, Jennifer (Mike) Randt, and Jacob Larson. Eight great grandchildren: Drew, Jack, Kimberlie, Rose, Kai, Roman, Alexander (AJ), and Ryan. Many nieces and nephews. Special friends Audrey Larum, Vi Roers, and Marion Frisell.

Special thank you to Knute Nelson Hospice, Knute Nelson Gables staff, Dr. Paul Kietzmann, frequent in-home caregivers, and friends at Hawthorne Estates.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 1:30 pm at West Moe Lutheran Church in Moe Township, Minnesota with Duane Lund officiating. Susan Peterson and Lynn Bruss will provide the music. 

A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday.

Interment will be in the church cemetery following the service.

Pallbearers will be Laura’s grandchildren: Brady, Jay, Rory, Jennifer, and Jacob

Honorary Pallbearers will be: David Benson, Bill Siira, Eugene Barsness, Ingvald Barsness, Paul Barsness, Ron Sletto, Lee Burkey, and Suzanne Burkey-Martin.