Dennis Charles Larsen

To watch a recording of the service, please use the link: https://youtu.be/R55LjhSFfIM 

Dennis Charles Larsen, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at Villa St. Vincent surrounded by family and friends at the age of 87. Born on January 18, 1939, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, Dennis lived a full and vibrant life characterized by warmth, humor, and an unyielding spirit.

Dennis was the cherished son of Charles and Agnes (Johnson) Larsen. He bravely served his country as a paratrooper in the 52nd Airborne of the US Army from 1956 to 1958, during which time he earned his GED, showcasing his determination and love for learning. His military service was the beginning of a life marked by hard work and ingenuity.

A man of many talents, Dennis was known for his skills as a handyman, always eager to understand how things worked and could be improved upon. He could be referred to as a reverse engineer. For over 50 years, he owned and operated his own tower business, building structures and installing antennas with precision and care. In his younger years, he ran a snow removal and towing business and, more recently, could be found bringing his warmth and charm to his role at Walmart in Crookston.

Dennis’s life was rich with hobbies that brought him joy and connection. He had a passion for collecting things and figuring out how they worked, a testament to his inquisitive nature. He enjoyed occasional trips to the casino, and in his youth, he found thrill and camaraderie in hunting, fishing, and racing sprint and stock cars. His quick wit and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone he met, making him a beloved figure in the community.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Agnes, his daughter Ann Larsen, his son Dale Larsen, his grandson David Larsen II, his sister Katherine Balsen, his brothers Gerald and Gordon Larsen, his sister-in-law Patricia Larsen, and his ex-wife Velma Thomas. His memory is lovingly carried forward by his surviving family: his son David (Yvonne) Larsen, his granddaughters Laura Chaussee and Emily (Logan) Ferry, his great-grandchildren Emmalynne Chaussee and William James Ferry, his twin brother Donald Larsen, his sister-in-law Eunice Larsen, his cousin Janet Kuhl, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends, as well as his longtime friend and companion, Maria Moronez, who held a special place in his heart.

A service to honor Dennis’s life will be held on October 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the University Lutheran Church, located at 2122 University Avenue, Grand Forks, ND.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the caregivers at Villa St. Vincent, HIA Hospice, and Veterans Affairs Community Care Network for their compassionate care and support during Dennis’s final days. As we bid farewell to Dennis, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. May he rest in peace, forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a donation in memory of Dennis to the All Saints Catholic Schools Network of Grand Forks.