In loving memory of

Larry E. Thorson
July 22, 1944 - May 25, 2008

HOUSTON, MINN. - Larry E. Thorson, 63, of Houston, Minn. died on Sunday, May 25, due to a farm accident on his farm.
Larry was born on July 22, 1944, in LaCrosse, Wis. to Tenart and Mildred (Benson) Thorson. He was raised in Houston and graduated from Houston High School in 1962. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War on the CVA USS Shangri-la. He attended Winona Technical College and worked two years for John Deere in Waterloo, Iowa. He worked for UPS for five years. Larry was a partner in ownership of the Kentucky Fried Chicken in Winona. He married Linda Lemke. They were later divorced. On November 25, 1978, he married Peggy Erkel. Larry was a graduate of the Minnesota State Trooper Academy. He worked as a Minnesota State Trooper for over 28 years. Larry served as a personal body guard for Minnesota Gov. Rudy Perpich. He lived in Lakeville and LeCenter, Minn. prior to moving back to Houston in 1997. He retired from the Minnesota State Patrol in 1998. After his retirement, Larry and Peggy ran their own antique shop in Houston. Larry also worked as a school bus driver for the Houston Public Schools. He was a member of the Houston American Legion and a life member of the Police and Peace Officers Assoc. Larry was a man of great Christian faith, always putting God and family first.
He is survived by his wife Peggy; mother, Mildred Gaustad of Houston; four children: Kenneth (Amy Kelly) Thorson of Houston, Erica (Kyle Lee) Thorson of Rathdrum, Idaho, Dolores Thorson of Houston, and Scott Thorson of Houston; one brother, Ted (Betty) Thorson of Houston; two sisters: Nancy (Ray Bobson) Deshayes of Eagle, Colorado, and Evonne (Richard) Snow of Houston.
Larry was preceded in death by his father, Tenart Thorson; stepfather, Clifton Gaustad; and by his mother and father-in-law, Kenneth and Dolores Erkel.
The funeral service for Larry will be at 12:00 noon on Saturday, May 31, at his farm (8404 County 4, Houston) with funeral celebrant Daryl Thompson officiating. Burial will be in the Yucatan Cemetery in rural Houston with military honors by the Arnet - Sheldon American Legion Post of Houston. Friends may call from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday at Hoff Funeral Homes - Houston Chapel and one hour prior to the service at the farm on Saturday.
Please feel free to leave a memory of Larry, sign his online guestbook and view Larry's Tribute Video at www.hofffuneral.com


Tribute video can be found at: http://videos.lifetributes.com/18973

Tributes

Kenny Thorson wrote on Jul 2, 2018:

"FUCK YOU PEGGY ERKEL!!!!!!!"

Rachel Bjerke wrote on Jun 26, 2008:

"My parents, Melvin and Allison Christian (now Conrad) were good friends with Larry's brother Ted and his wife Betty while I was growing up. We lived in Yucatan for about 5 years, I remember spending time with Mildred and playing at the home farm with Summer and Adam. A few years ago my good friend Ali and I stopped by the home farm to do some antique shopping, where we met Peggy. We had a joyous visit! We looked through the antiques and then were invited into her home to visit and have a winecooler on a hot summers day. It is a great memory. Peggy, you are a wonderful strong woman. I am so sorry for your loss and have been thinking about and praying for you and your family. About 2 years ago our daughter Clara Jane was stillborn at 37 weeks. Our loss, pain, and anger were tremedous. She was our first child, and she was so beautiful. As time has gone by we slowly heal, our hearts will forever remain heavy, and days like her Birthday, due date, etc. are difficult. But we think of her everyday, we talk about her constantly, and I cannot wait to be with her again! That is the glorious part of life, although our loved ones may not be on this earth with us, we WILL be with them again, forever!! I read in the paper that your son made the dean's list at college, you must be very proud of him and your family. Take Care and God Bless. Rachel Bjerke (Christian)"

Kathy Wegner-Greve wrote on Jun 7, 2008:

"Dolores-I heard at work what happened and my heart just broke for you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy "

Derrold and Marilyn Dahl wrote on Jun 6, 2008:

"There are no adequate words for this wonderful friend. What can one say about this dear person who has "been there" from kids, poodles, Baptisms, and laughter to serious illness and tears. He "was there" for us and countless other people. You were blessed to have him as husband and father. We have been blessed by Larry and your family's friendship. Please know we are here for you and you are loved!"

Corey, Craig and Chris Domas wrote on Jun 5, 2008:

"Larry was a wonderful co-worker and a great friend to our Mother Jean Domas. He will be missed by all of us. Corey, Craig and Chris"

Corey, Craig and Chris Domas wrote on Jun 5, 2008:

"Larry was a wonderful co-worker and a great friend to our Mother Jean Domas. He will be missed by all of us. Corey, Craig and Chris"

Cliff and Sue Hrdlicka wrote on Jun 4, 2008:

"Peggy and Family.We would like to extend our sympathy to you and your family.Peggy, our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time.It is not easy to lose the ones we love but they are always with us. May god bless you!"

GREG , CHRIS & LORRAINE FACTOR wrote on Jun 4, 2008:

"WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE FUN TIME WE HAD IN LAS VEGAS WITH YOU AND LARRY. WE WILL KEEP HIM AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR PRAYERS"

Wayne and Barb Krohn wrote on Jun 4, 2008:

"Dear Peg, We share your loss. So sorry to hear about Larry's unexpected passing and accident. We want you to know we are keeping you and the kids tucked close in prayer and in our thoughts daily. May God bless and keep you all. Sincerely, Wayne and Barb Krohn"

Sue Myers Bennett wrote on Jun 3, 2008:

"Peggy, I can't express how sad I was to hear of Larrys' passing. I want you to know that our prayers and thought are with you. You are so blessed to have your children, family and friends for support. We are thinking of you. Delta Love Sue"

Sue Myers Bennett wrote on Jun 3, 2008:

"Peggy, I can't express how sad I was to hear of Larrys' passing. I want you to know that our prayers and thought are with you. You are so blessed to have your children, family and friends for support. We are thinking of you. Delta Love Sue"

Connie (Krenik) Schwab wrote on Jun 2, 2008:

"Peggy and family, I was sitting here trying to think of some comforting words to say to you, but somehow they just wouldn't be enough to ease your heart. I wish that I would have been able to meet your husband, from all that I have read and the wonderful video tribute that I watched, it is clear to me what a kind and loving husband and father he was. Please know Peggy, that I will be thinking of you in the days to come. Draw strength from your family and friends and know that he is in God's loving arms. Take care my friend! All our prayers Dennis & Connie (Krenik) Schwab & family"

DAVID BUSSE wrote on May 31, 2008:

"SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT LARRY AND YOUR LOSE"

Ron & Claudia Niemeyer ,Keith, Lisa & Rhonda, Nate wrote on May 31, 2008:

"Peggy, We were very sad to hear about Larry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hang tight to God's hand. May the LORD be with you. The Niemeyers"

SHARI RAE SMITH QUAST wrote on May 31, 2008:

"PEGGY AND FAMILY SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT LARRY PASSING AWAY AND HIS FARM ACCIDENT. JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU. MAY YOUR FAITH KEEP YOU STRONG. SINCERELY, SHARI RAE"

Peggy Erkel-Thorson (Mrs. Larry E. Thorson) wrote on May 30, 2008:

"I am so grateful to all of your wonderful tributes, sympathy and words of encouragement..... Most of all I feel your prayers and love for Larry. He would say thank you, thank you thank you.......He loved Jesus Christ our Savior and is now one of his helpers and guardian Angel's. The communities where we have lived and our friends have poured out their love, and have helped our family so much over the years and have helped us celebrate our joys to date....All of our childrenā??s Baptism', First Communions, Confirmations, graduations, birthdays and now his final celebration and return of his Soul to God Almighty his creator. Thank you all for your kind words, prayers, memories. The Children and I will need you all more then ever as Larry was our rock and above all with God the Father, his Son, and the Holy Spirit at his side and mine we are doing okay. Old friends, new friends and everyone in between you are so appreciated. Thankyou to Larry's family and relatives and The Community of Houston, Le Center, Lakeville, Burnsville, The Burnsville Police Department(Public Safety Dept.), The Minnesota State Patrol, Bloomington PD, Richfield PD, Mpls PD, St. Paul PD, Eagan PD, Apple Valley PD.........freinds from far and near who stoppped in and all of our antique customers/freinds.........I could go on and on......we loved you all, all such important parts of our lives....... Peggy and family (Ken, Erica, Dolores Scott, Sandy Dog and Mary Dog)"

Rod and Kathy (Thorson) Meyers wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy and family, Rod and I were so sorry to hear about Larry. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you . So many memories I have of Larry and the time spent at the farm when we were young -- playing in the barn, watching cows giving birth, taking lunch to the men working in the fields. Hiking back in the valley to find calves...to many to write about...Rod and I send our love to you Peg and the children ...May God bless...Kathy"

Nikki Johann (Flatten) wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Please accept my deepest condolences in this tragic event. Peggy has always been one of the nicest and patient people I know and we all are better people for knowing Larry. I have fond memories of Evonne & her family throughout the years and of school with Adam, Kenny and the girls. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call. Nikki"

Dr. and Mrs. George L. Lemon wrote on May 30, 2008:

"LARRY THORSON WAS ALWAYS A GOOD, GOOD PERSON,,,,AS HIS AUNT BERNICE I THANK YOU FOR THE WONDERFUL LINE IN THE OBITUARY. '' LARRY IS A GOOD CHRISTIAN MAN AND HE ALWAYS PUT GOD AND FAMILY FIRST.'' HE ALWAYS SEEMED TO LISTEN FOR THE INTENT AND HEART OF GOD....AND NOW THAT HE IS PROMOTED TO GLORY.I KNOW HIS SOUL WILL REST IN PEACE WITH HIS GOD. WE LOVE YOU, LARRY. . AUNT BERNICE AND UNCLE GEORGE LEMON"

Susie Grabinger (Hrdlichka) wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy I am so sorry to hear about Larry, keep your faith as I know you will and time will comfort you and your heart will hold him forever! My thoughts and prayers are with you! Love, Susie"

Amber Eide (Benson) wrote on May 30, 2008:

"So sorry to hear of your loss. I graduated high school with Summer and know the rest of the family very well. Every Halloween I stop with my 3 girls to see Mildred at the Apartments. I didn't know Larry and his family well. However my deepest sympathy is with you ALL at this very hard time."

Brenda (Bosacker) Kotasek & Bonnie Phillips wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy, We want to send our deepest sympathy and let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Brenda & Bonnie"

Ed & Kim Janda wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy and Family, Sorry to hear about Larry's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our deepest sympathy, Ed & Kim Janda "

Ralph F.Anderson wrote on May 30, 2008:

""

Jim Selly wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy- So very sorry to hear about Larry, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Cherish your memories, and keep them in your heart."

Jim & Lynn Selly wrote on May 30, 2008:

"Peggy- So very sorry to hear about Larry, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Cherish your memories, and keep them in your heart. Jim & Lynn"

Luke wrote on May 29, 2008:

"I am so deeply sorry for your loss; but keep your head high and your heart strong, for your family and friends..."

Gary & Cathy Huber wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy and family, Just wanted you to know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time, Larry will surely be missed by us all. Keep the faith and remember time will heal all. Hope to see you soon, Big hugs of comfort and care sent your way. Cathy & Gary"

Sharon Sexe wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy and family; My deepest sympathy to you and your family in the unfortunate and sudden loss of Larry. I'm sure he will missed. My prayers are with you."

Nadine & Joe Sturlaugson wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dear Peggy and family We were so saddened to hear the news of Larry's death. We are old neighbors from Countrywood Estates and have many wonderful memories of times with Larry. We plan to be at the service on Saturday, but if we don't make it please know that our thoughts & prayers go out to you and to all who knew and loved Larry. Love, Nadine & Joe Sturlaugson Love, Nadine & Joe Sturlaugson"

Ginny Havel Naujokas wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dearest Peggy, I just received my Le Center Leader and saw the news of you dear husband,Larry, tucked in the notices. It has been many years since you and I have had some real connection time. Please know my heart is filled with sorrow and sympathy... I remember how shocking and sad it was when your Daddy passed. I also remember how your dear and precious mother brought such a comfort to me when my mother died so unexpectedly. They were such great friends. May Jesus the Savior wrap you and your family in His tender and loving arms. May He hold you tightly and give you peace as each new day brings challenges. May he bless you and protect you in all things. JOHN3:16 This is your promise and mine that we will be together one day with those we love... them that believe on Christ Jesus as their savior. My love to you Peggy,,,,,, Ginny Havel Naujokas The tribute video is beautiful.... If was a comfort to watch the life of such a fine man unfold."

John P. Wheaton wrote on May 29, 2008:

"you will be missed very much by your entire family. May god bless your family."

Dave and Judy Bock wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy, our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time. We will sadly miss Larry and our outings to the farm and Little Miami. We had such good times together. We will always be here for you and your family. Love to you always, Dave and Judy"

Annette, Debbie, Mary, & Jeremy wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy our hearts go out to you and your family. You are a very special lady and if we can do anything for you let us know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Our deepest sympathy, Treasurer's Office!"

Susan Lemon Williams wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy and family, Aunt Mildred, Evonne, Ted, Nancy and families -- We were so sorry to hear about Larry. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with and for you all. What fond memories we have of Larry and the time spent w/the Thorsons in Houston as we were growing up! -- playing in the barn, taking hay rides, singing "Swamp Fox" and lots of other songs out in the front yard, picnics, family meals together. Then to have Larry and Peggy's family at our home in Nashville - what fun watching Larry interact w/his children and wife - and getting a glimpse into that family. We will continue to pray for you - for God's peace that surpasses all understand to keep your hearts and minds in Him. In His love -- Dana and Susan (Lemon) Williams, Megan, Kirsten, Bethany, Erin (Williams) and Patrick Tate"

Collette Lynch wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dolores and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know your family however I completley understand the pain and deep sadness you are experiencing after the loss of my parents both at young ages. I remember sitting with Dolores on Christmas at work as she spoke so highly of her father. Dolores told me how her father was staying with her at her appartment and then taking her back home for the holiday after she completed her scheduled work days. I thought what a cool relationship she must have with her father and truely understood how wonderful it is to have a great realationship with your parents. As I heard her speak I remember being so happy for her as I was experiencing my first Christmas after my fathers death. Remember those close times your shared, visists you had and advice you recieved from your father as you move on. There will be may sad days and I wish I could take some of that sadness away, however that is part of the healing. If you ever need to talk feel free to look me up. I will pray for you and your family. God bless you at such a difficult time. Collette Lynch "

Larry Meyer wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dear Peggy and Family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God Bless each of you during this time and the days ahead. God Bless, Larry"

Lisa Aldinger wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I was very sorry to hear of your loss. Please take care of yourself and your children. With deepest sympathy, Lisa Aldinger"

Ellie Trautman wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy, I can't convey how very sorry I am for you & your family. When a loved one's death is expected or unexpected, it's always hard to not want them here on earth instead of in heaven with our Lord. Please know that you & your family are in my prayers. "

Evie Bartsch wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy, Was so sad to hear of the sudden death of Larry. I know you are in lots of pain but know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He was a special guy. Evie Tell Vonne I wish I was there for her as she was for me when I lost my brother, but distance and circumstance make that impossible. My sympathy to all of you. Evie"

Dawn Mason wrote on May 29, 2008:

""

Dawn Mason wrote on May 29, 2008:

"My most sincere sympathies for the loss of your loved one. May God carry you though."

Marsha O'Malley wrote on May 29, 2008:

"You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of Larry. So sorry to hear of his accident. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids. Need someone to talk to-call me. Love,Marsha O"

Diane Bennett wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peg- I've just heard of your loss and would like you to know that you are in my thougths and prayers. Please reach out to all of those who love and think of you - all of us would love to offer our support. Love, Diane"

Jim & Connie Westall wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dear Peggy & Family: Thinking of you Peggy and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I will call you next week and let me know if you need anything at all. Connie Westall"

Jim & Connie Westall wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dear Peggy & Family: Thinking of you Peggy and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I will call you next week and let me know if you need anything at all. Connie Westall"

Jacque Noy wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Pegi, I am so heartsick for you and your family with the tragic loss of Larry. I want you to know that we are thinking of you and surrounding you in prayer and the comfort of the Lord. I have very fond memories of spending time together when our kids were young. Much love, Jacque"

Sandy Loken wrote on May 29, 2008:

"I'm truly sorry about Larry's accident. I wish that I could do more for you and your kids. I wish I could take the pain away, but God is taking care of Larry now, and they are both watching over all of you. I will continue to pray for you and your family. God Bless, and stay in touch!! p.s. When God closes one door he always opens another!! Love, Sandy"

Kim Laflamme wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Dear Doodie, Peggy, Scott and Erika - I'm very sorry to hear about this tragic lost. I wish I could be there with you, but i will for sure think about you. I got the chance to notice how wonderful Larry was, and how much you love him. I am peaying for all of you, including Ken too. You will have my best thoughts for you this weekend, and the for the following days. Stay strong. I miss you very much. Love, KIM"

Sharon Tweito Aldrich wrote on May 29, 2008:

"May the Lord give you His comfort and peace knowing because of Jesus we will see Larry again: to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Our prayers surround you. The everlasting arms that hold Larry today hold each of you as well. Hugs to you all and especially to Aunt Mildred and Ted. Sharon, Jon Craig, Rachel, Aaron, Philip, Timothy, and Benjamin Aldrich"

Michael Crnobrna wrote on May 29, 2008:

"Peggy, I am so very sad for you and your family. The Minnesota State Trooper who fell in love with you, the Burnsville Public Safety Officer. It is a heart-warming story. I first met Larry when I was a young officer. He was the lone dog-watch trooper in our area. He immediately earned my respect as the knowledgeable, dedicated and caring trooper he was. I cannot imagine the pain of your loss. Although I cannot be with you during these difficult days, my heart is with you and your family. Your old friend and co-worker, Mike Crnobrna"

Ken & Aletta Peterson wrote on May 29, 2008:

"We would just like to give you our sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you the strength to get through this terrible accident. Thank you for all you have done for Amy. I know losing her mother and father was very hard on her. God bless you for being her family."

Joanne {Houge} Marcus wrote on May 29, 2008:

"To Ted and family, my sincere sympathy to you all on a very "sudden and tragic" accident, I can honestly say I Know what you are feeling, I lost a daughter at age 16 to a drowning and my husband to a trucking accident. Just keep your faith, Larry is with the Lord and watching over you. Ted, you have been such a good friend to my brother Jon, I wanted to reach out to you. Peace to you, Joanne {Houge} Marcus"

Mary Bliesmer wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Family and Friends of Larry Thorson, you have my deepest sympathy. What a sudden end to a very fulfilling life! Take comfort in the love that will be shown to you. Sincerely, Mary Bliesmer Chairperson, School of Nursing MN State University, Mankato"

Brenda (Unnasch) Miller wrote on May 28, 2008:

"My sympathy to all of you. May you find strength and peace in the coming days and years."

Sheila Brookins and Ron Ebert wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy we are so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful friend and loved one to you. Please take comfort in that he is there for you every hour and every day. We are praying for you and your family. We are sorry we cannot attend the services. Ron has to work and I will be in Milwaukee. Love Ron and Sheila"

Bob and Ann Sund wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy, I'm so sorry to hear about Larry. I just want to let you know that I can't make it on Friday, but I will see you on Sat. Please know that all our Prayers and Love are with you and the kids. See you soon. Love Annie"

Glenda Meixell wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy, I have a long-time friend that graduated from Houston in 1963. She knew I had worked with you and let me know your sad news this morning. I have let a few people around here know and we are all so very saddened by this news. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God be with you and your family. Glenda"

Marlene Hunt wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy, My heart feels your pain - I ask God to send you peace and blessings in kowing your husband is home with God. May you feel God's angels hug you at night and always when you have tears of sadness. May God Bless you and your family - Hugs, Marlene Hunt "

Krista Boston wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy. I was so sorry to hear this news. A mutual old friend of ours alerted me by email. Please take care of yourself and your children and my thoughts are very much with you."

Hope Braatz wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Dolores, Scott and family my thoughts and prayers are with you and I want to let you know how sorry I am for this tragic loss in your life. I am here for all of you if you need anything. I never got to meet Larry but even though I never got to meet him he did so much for me and I just want to let you know he touched my heart very deeply."

Bill Schultz wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy, God has a special place in heaven for us farmers and I'm sure Larry is enjoying that right now. You lifted me up in prayer and friendship many times during the formation and growth of First Call Minnesota and you need to know that right now you are being remembered in my prayers. May God bring you peace and celebration for a victory won by His son for Larry. Bill Schultz"

Richard Berg wrote on May 28, 2008:

"We are sorry to hear of the sudden loss of Larry. Our prayers are with you and your family during this very hard time in your lives. Shirley and Dick Berg"

Colleen and Blair Bergjord wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time in your life. Always remember the good times and soon your tears will be replaced with a smile. Take care of each other and hugs to you all..love Colleen and Blair"

Ellen Erkel wrote on May 28, 2008:

"Peggy and Family, My heart bleeds for you. This tragic accidents brings back many memories associated with your father's death. You have strong arms and I know you can carry on. I will have you in my prayers and thoughts. I wish I could be at your side to give you a big hug. Remember that I am here for you so don't be afraid to call on me. May God bless you with his gracious love and peace. God Bless! Ellen Erkel"

Dennis Adrian wrote on May 28, 2008:

"When I joined the state patrol in 1971 Larry was my first field training officer- we became friends but haven't been in touch in many years- I knew Peggy as a Burnsville police officer and remember both as very nice people- I will pray for Larry's soul and for Peggy. May God bless and give you both consolation."

Sharon (Johnson) Carlson wrote on May 28, 2008:

"I was so sorry to hear of Larry's death. You have my deepest sympathy in your loss. Larry has gained his place in Heaven. Thanks be to our Lord Jesus Christ. My prayers will be for your comfort. Sharon Carlson"