Mary A. (Eikenes) Larsson

Mary Ann Larsson, 90, of Spring Park, MN passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024, at Presbyterian Homes of Spring Park.

She was born May 4, 1934, in Minot, ND, to David and Beryl (Graves) Eikenes.  Mary's early life was spent in the nurturing community of Warren, MN, where she graduated from high school in 1952. She continued her education at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Public School Music in 1956. Mary's passion for learning and helping others led her to further her education at St. Thomas University, where she obtained a degree in Counseling Psychology. Her commitment to her personal and professional growth was further underscored when she earned a Master's Degree while working at the 5 County Mental Health Center in Braham.

Mary's life was forever changed when she met, and fell in love with the love of her life, Kenton Larsson.  They were married August 10, 1957 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in her hometown. The young couple began their life together in Gibbon, MN, where their family blossomed with the births of their children Karen, Dan, and Cathy. Mary's dedication to her family was evident as she embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom until her children were older.

Mary's career as an educator began at McKinley Elementary in Davenport, Iowa, where she taught first grade for two years. After her time in the classroom, she focused on raising her family, supporting Kenton in his pastoral duties, and later contributing her skills and empathy as a counselor. The Larsson family's life was a testament to faith, love, and community as they moved from one parsonage to another, finally settling in Hector, MN, where the children grew to adulthood.

An avid lover of music, Mary was an active member of the Prime Time Singers at Cambridge Lutheran Church. Her musical talents and enthusiasm were shared with her family, leading to a household filled with the sounds of piano, trumpet, clarinet, flute, and song. This love of music extended to the family's enjoyment of camping trips and other outdoor activities. Even after Kenton's passing in 2006, Mary continued to embrace life, traveling, and making memories.

Mary's legacy is one of unwavering love and generosity. She touched the lives of many, whether through her kind words, her dedication to her students, or the comfort she provided as a counselor. Her thoughtful nature made her a beacon of light in the lives of those she encountered.

Mary's life was not only defined by her roles as an educator and counselor but also by the love she poured into her family. She is survived by her cherished children, Karen Larsson of St. Paul, Dan (Cristy) Larsson of Minnetrista, and Cathy (Stacy) Fleace of Worthington; her adored grandsons, Blake Larsson and Chase Larsson both of IA; and her dear sisters, Jeannie Orr of Plymouth, Cherry (Todd) Goshen of Fargo, ND, and Linda (Dale) Stinar of Fargo, ND, other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life Gathering 11AM, Saturday, November 16, 2024 at Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home with Graveside Service to follow at Cambridge Lutheran Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary A. (Eikenes) Larsson, please visit our floral store.