James Larson Obituary

James "Jim" Lloyd Larson, Newfolden, MN, age 75, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.
Funeral service will be 10:30 AM on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Westaker Free Lutheran Church, Newfolden, MN with Reverend Kevin Hall officiating. The Burial and Military Honors will follow the service at Westaker Cemetery, Newfolden, MN.
Visitation will be Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:30 PM at Westaker Free Lutheran Church, Newfolden, MN.
James Lloyd Larson was born November 6, 1949, in Thief River Falls, MN, the son of Lloyd P. and Linda (Gusa) Larson. He was baptized and confirmed at Nazareth Lutheran Church, Holt, MN. He attended Holt Grade School and Newfolden High School, graduating in 1967. He then attended AVTI in Thief River Falls, MN.
He served in the United States Army from January 1968-September 1970. Some of the bases where he served were Ft. Lewis, WA, Ft. Huachuca, AZ, Ft. Knox, KY and his last tour of duty was in Viet Nam until his honorable discharge on September 3, 1970.
On August 14, 1971, James was united in marriage to Carol J. Peterson at Nazareth Lutheran Church, Holt.
He was employed at Davidson Construction, Arctic Enterprises as Designer/Draftsman, Forsbergs Inc. as Chief Engineer and Arctic Cat Inc. as Project Engineer.
James was a member of the Westaker Church Council, a Trumpet of Truth Announcer, a member of the American Legion Post #427, VFW Post #2793, the DAV and North Central Chapter #7.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose love for laughter and storytelling brought joy to everyone around him. He had a special gift for humor-often spinning tall tales just to see how long it would take for others to catch on to his playful mischief. His infectious laugh and big sense of humor were ever-present, and he never hesitated to share his amusement with those nearby.
He was a proud supporter of his children's and grandchildren's activities. After each event, he could often be found deep in conversation, sharing stories and "solving all the world's problems" with friends and family.
Jim had a deep love for the outdoors, especially the mountains. Every summer, he and his beloved wife Carol and daughters would embark on road trips out west, carefully navigating routes that avoided big cities. Once there, he would spend hours exploring mountain trails, always on the lookout for the elusive grizzly bear.
He was the heart behind many cherished family traditions-from the ever-growing 4th of July fireworks display to the annual camping trip at Galilee Bible Camp, where laughter and storytelling around the campfire became treasured memories. Perhaps his most iconic tradition was his meticulously crafted outdoor Christmas light show. No one matched Jim's attention to detail-every bulb had its place, and every light shone with purpose.
Jim's legacy lives on in the traditions he created, the laughter he inspired, and the love he shared so freely.
He also enjoyed woodworking, bird watching, hunting, going to music concerts and festivals, especially gospel bluegrass.
Jim's love for the Lord was evident to all those around him. He filled many more roles at his church than those mentioned above and brought an enthusiasm to the congregation that earned him the title of the "amen guy." He was one of the first to welcome newcomers and was a blessing to the kids not only at church, but in the community. With coffee cup in hand, he spent much time talking to others and making those around him feel special and loved.
He is survived by his loving wife Carol Jean Larson, Newfolden, MN; children: Mary Larson, Newfolden, MN, Jennifer (Ricky) Semling, East Grand Forks, MN and Rachel (Joel) Nilles, Fargo, ND; grandchildren: Elizabeth Kezar, Nick Kezar, JJ, Zach, Elijah and Alex Semling, Jadon, Nathan and Joshua Nilles; great grandchildren: Aubrey Underdahl and Alba Maurstad; a brother: Mark (Diane) Larson, Middle River, MN.
Preceded in death by his parents, a brother Paul and grandparents.
Memorials will be given to American Legion Post #427, Trumpet of Truth and Galilee Lutheran Bible Camp Corporation.
Live link:
Funeral service 10:30 AM on Friday, July 18: https://youtube.com/live/1VXuy6IYklI
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