Weldon Ernest Larson

Weldon E. Larson, age 99, of Willmar, passed away Saturday, May 24, at Bethesda Grand.

A celebration of Weldon's life will be from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, at Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. A private interment with military honors will be at Fairview Cemetery. www.petersonbrothers.com

Weldon "Whitey" Ernest Larson was born on August 14, 1925, in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of Lawrence and Mae (Stene) Larson. He grew up and received his education in the Willmar community and then began employment with the Burlington Northern Railroad. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War. After the service, Weldon returned to work on the railroad. He was united in marriage to Lois Johnson. They made their home in Minneapolis and were blessed with two sons, Lawrence and Michael. Lois passed away in 1986. Weldon was later married to Beulah Benson and they made their home in Willmar. Beulah passed away in 2015. Weldon loved music and singing. He enjoyed keeping busy doing handyman work around the home, visiting with his friends and coffee time with Lloyd and Butch at Sunrise Village.

He is survived by his son, Larry Larson; four stepchildren, Harry (and Colleen) Johnson, Tim (and Karen) Johnson, Kevin (and Sara) Johnson and Nancy (and Steve) Oates; ten grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren and one brother, Richard Larson, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Lois and Beulah; son, Michael; stepson, Nathan and several siblings.

The family would like to thank the Bethesda Hospice and staff for their excellent care.