Wilma Eloise Larson

Wilma (Billie) Larson was born Wilma Eloise Lawrence on October 30, 1929, to Hilda (Huset) Lawrence and William Lawrence, in Dallas, Wisconsin. She died at her home in Corvallis, Oregon, on Thursday, May 22, 2014. Billie is survived by her husband of over 63 years, Milton Larson; her children Greg (Stefanie), Arne, and Linda (Bill Pelto); her sister Marian (Tom) Smith; her grandchildren Joshua (Cait), Eric, Hannah, and Kaia; in-laws and “outlaws” Sonja Rasmussen, Peggy Carrick, Winnie Kerner, Joan Pelto; and many other loving friends and relatives. She was preceded in death by her son Steve. Billie and her three sisters grew up in Chetek, Wisconsin. The family moved to Bremerton, Washington when she was in her teens, and then on to Portland, Oregon a few years later. She met Milton Larson when he returned from active military service in 1946; they married September 9, 1950 at Central Lutheran Church in Portland. She and Milt lived in Corvallis, Connecticut, and California while he pursued his studies. They moved to North Dakota and Ohio for Milt’s work, but were always drawn back to Oregon. They returned to Corvallis permanently in 1969. Billie had a wonderful way with children, both her own and others. When her children were old enough, she went back to school at Oregon State University, and received her bachelors degree in elementary education in 1974. She was passionate about teaching and worked at both Mountain View and Harding Elementary Schools in Corvallis. She also received her masters degree and a reading specialization. Billie, along with Milt, was a long-time, active member of Grace Lutheran Church in Corvallis. The church and her family were the centers of her life, and she gave her energies enthusiastically and joyfully to both. She was known for her ever-ready smile. At various times in her life, she enjoyed painting, reading, games, word-play, singing in the church choir, hiking, and traveling. There will be a service to celebrate Billie’s life on Saturday, May 31, at 1:30 pm, at Grace Lutheran Church. Memorial donations in her honor can be made to Benton Hospice Service or Grace Lutheran Church.

Tributes

Wilma Eloise Larson

October 30, 1929 - May 22, 2014