Doris A. Larsen (nee: Leonard), 86, of Franksville died early Thursday morning, January 26, at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center.
Doris (affectionately known as Dolly or Dorrie) was a life-long resident of Franksville. She was born to Roy and Eleanor (Rammelt) Leonard on January 20, 1926. On April 12, 1947, she married Raymond Larsen at St. Louis Catholic Church in Caledonia.
As a young girl Doris worked at Hartmann Luggage for many years. She then worked as a postal clerk at the Franksville Post Office where she retired in 1987 after 38 years of service. Doris was a 4-H Leader, and a member of the St. Louis Christian Mothers Society.
Doris, and her husband, Raymond, traveled extensively throughout the United States with friends and family members. In 1972, they traveled to Hawaii to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. And, in their later years, they enjoyed many bus trips to Branson, Missouri; Florida; Louisiana; and other locations.
Even though she was in a wheelchair for the past two years, Doris was very active. She looked forward to weekly trips with her son, Jimmy, to, (as she would describe it) “beautiful, historical Downtown Greendale.” Her routine also included Sunday morning breakfast at Roosters and Friday afternoons at Katy’s Beauty Salon. She especially enjoyed monthly luncheon outings with her sisters. She loved ice cream and her “treats” at Culvers. She was extremely proud of her two beautiful grandchildren, Natalie and Christian.
Doris was proud to raise her three children: Jean (Jim) Garbo of Franksville, James of Greendale and John (Andrea) of Brookfield. She was also a loving grandmother to her twin grandchildren, Natalie and Christian Larsen of Brookfield. Also left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Jane (Gene) Egresi, Carol (Wayne) Egresi, Marlene Leonard, Patricia (Gary) Lueneberg and Barb (Joe) Vesbach; her brother, Charles (Shirley) Leonard and her brother-in-law Harold Hugunin along with many nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to her parents, Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond, who passed away on November 18, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Margery Hugunin and Joycelyn (Vernon) Berg, and her brothers and sisters-in-law, Roy (Marge) Leonard and Jack (Maggie) Leonard.
Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, January 30, 2012 at noon for the celebration of Doris’ life and funeral service. There will be a visitation prior to the service from 10:30 a.m. until noon. A private interment will take place next to her husband at St. Louis Cemetery in Caledonia. Memorials have been suggested to the Arthritis Foundation.
Doris’ family wishes to thank her wonderful caregivers and friends through Home Instead, April and Cindy. The family would also like to thank the wonderful staff in the Emergency Room and ICU units at Wheaton Franciscan-All Saints Medical Center and the South Shore Rescue Service. Thank you so very much for your care, kindness and comfort.
Marsha Gayle says
Dearest Larsen Family,
We share in your sadness in the loss of your wonderful Mother. She was a sweet and gentle woman, who always had a smile and spoke such kind words. I am so fortunate to have recently visited with her during my last trip to Wisconsin in December. She was her delightful self, gracious and loving. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. I came to know Mrs. Larsen, many, many years ago when my brother, Jim married her beautiful daughter, Jeanie. Condolences and Blessings to all of you.
Marsha Garbo Gayle
Janet & John Campbell says
We wish to say how sorry we are for your loss. Aunt Doris was a great lady and will be missed by all her family and friends. May God be with you all and comfort you in your time of need.