Robert Marshall Larsen

Robert (Bob) Marshall Larsen (80) of Coon Rapids passed away peacefully at home on October 28, 2023, with his loving family by his side. Bob was born July 11, 1943, to Willard and Fern (Papke) Larsen of Waseca. The third oldest of six children, Bob’s fondest boyhood memories included fishing, hunting, swimming, and playing sports. After graduating from Waseca High School in 1962, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served his country in the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge, Bob returned home and married his high school sweetheart, Cheryl Volling, on July 27, 1968. He graduated from Winona State College in 1971, and the couple eventually settled in Coon Rapids, where they raised three sons: Travis, Nathan, and Timothy. For many years, Bob managed the Coon Rapids Ice Arena – one of the filming sites for the 1992 hockey movie, The Mighty Ducks. Bob always smiled with great pride as he recalled hosting the film crew and meeting famous actors like Emilio Estevez. A friendly face throughout the community, Bob enjoyed coaching and attending youth sports as his boys grew up. Together, they faithfully cheered on their favorite Minnesota sports teams and could often be spotted playing driveway basketball late into the night. Bob’s loudest applause, however, was always reserved for his five grandsons and their many athletic and academic achievements. And as recently as last year, Bob was a star player in the annual Larsen Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl football game (although without a referee, the actual score is still up for debate). After retiring, Bob and Cheryl escaped the snow and spent many winters in warm and sunny Texas. The pair’s real happy place, though, was their Wisconsin lake home they planned and built alongside their sons. Bob especially cherished cabin time with family and his many memories teaching his grandsons how to hunt, fish, and steer the pontoon; and showing his granddaughters how to catch critters and strum a guitar. Bob will always be remembered for the love and kindness he shared with friends and family. When his time to meet Jesus came, he carried himself with tremendous humility, strength, and grace. Bob will be missed dearly by his wife, Cheryl; three sons: Travis (Lisa), Nate (Casey), and Tim (Erica); seven grandchildren: Brock, Quinn, Connor, Boden, Jacob, Emma, and Sophie; five siblings and their spouses, and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5 at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel. A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 6 at Coon Rapids United Methodist Church (with visitation one hour prior to the service). In remembrance of Bob’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Tributes

Robert Marshall Larsen

July 11, 1943 - October 28, 2023

Tributes

Robert Marshall Larsen

July 11, 1943 - October 28, 2023

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