On November 17th, 1947 Bruce L. Larson was born to Arnold and Esther Larson. He grew up in the Luck/ Frederic area, and graduated from Frederic High School in 1965. Following his studies, he proudly served two terms in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, displaying a level of bravery and commitment that would define his character throughout his life. True to their Moto, “Seabees Can Build Just About Anything, Anywhere!” If you knew Bruce, that was him! There wasn't anything that he couldn't build or do!

Bruce's work ethic was evident at a young age. One of his first jobs was mowing lawns around Round Lake. He earned .25 cents per lawn that he mowed. This is where his passion for mowing lawns started. When he was 12 years old, he shot his first buck, and this was just the start of many bucks shot in his lifetime! He found peace and joy in working with his hands, whether it was mowing the lawn, cutting wood, or engaging in his favorite outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. These simple pleasures were a testament to his connection with nature and his appreciation for life's simple joys.

In July of 1968, he married Susan Peterson. Together they had three children, Scott, Holly, & Ross. They raised their children in the Cushing/ Luck area. Bruce worked for a short time at the Atlas feed mill, then for Allen Selander Construction, building many of the barns and farm related projects in the area. From there Bruce went on to farm with his friend Bill Mattson. There he lived at and managed Bill's farm north of Cushing. He milked around 65 cows, planted and harvested crops. He loved to farm. Bruce was in an accident that left him with a broken leg, causing his farming career to end. However, the friendship that he made with Bill & Terry Mattson lived on. His leg healed, and he was back to work! He was hired by EJM Pipe Services out of Lino Lakes, MN. (A Boring Company) He was with this company for 44 years until his retirement. He loved the work and the friendships that he developed that lasted a lifetime.

In 2016, Bruce married Kristi Melin from Grantsburg. (A Farmer's daughter that he built a barn for in 1969.) Bruce & Kristi built their home together near her family farm. Together they navigated life's challenges and joys, their bond unbreakable. They enjoyed being together, going on evening deer drives with their dog Izzy, mowing lawn together, and spending time with family and many friends.

Bruce will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest, who overcame adversity with grace, and who always put others before himself. He could always be relied upon for a kind word or helping hand. Bruce's story is one of a life well-lived, a life filled with purpose, and passion. His creative mind was never at rest, always conjuring up new projects and ideas. His friendly smile and warm greeting were the hallmarks of a man who valued relationships and community. Above all else, Bruce was loving --- a love that he extended to his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing his path.

Bruce was diagnosed with stage 4 lung and liver cancer. He did chemo for 8 months and then decided to stop treatment and enjoy his remaining time with his family and friends. Bruce passed away peacefully early in the morning on June 27th, 2024 with his loving wife Kristi and his loyal dog Izzy by his side.

Special Thank You, to St. Croix Hospice for helping us give Bruce the best care we could give him.

Private Service held with Military Honors at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI. Bruce will be laid to rest with the other soldiers as he requested.

A Celebration of a Life well lived will be held on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 at The Cushing Community Center from 11am - 3pm.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings; the mother of his children Susan Larson; and his beloved dogs Fritz and Abby. He leaves to celebrate his life: his loving wife Kristi; beloved dog Izzy; his children Scott (Chanta), Holly (Devlyn), and Ross (Sarah); his grandchildren Devyn (Tessa), Payton (Andrea), Cashton, Gavyn (Sadie), Jackson, Weston, Jameson, and Madison; his great-grandson Crew Hunter Ellefson; 7 siblings; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Last Update: Jul 15, 2024 8:55 am CDT