Obituaries

Raymond Allen Larsen

Photo of Raymond Allen Larsen
Mr. Raymond Allen Larsen, age 83 years, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away on Monday, March 19, 2018 at St. Joseph's Bluffs. Ray was born on April 13, 1934 in Springfield, Ill., the son of Frank Peter and Winniferd Madelyn Durkin Larsen. He was one of the five generational family members that were born on Friday the thirteenth. He was married on August 26, 1955 in Springfield, Ill., to Wanda Fern Parkes, who survives at the home. Ray was a 1952 graduate of Springfield High School in Springfield, Ill. After two years in Springfield Junior College and after marrying Wanda, he served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged as a Private First Class. Ray worked for Missouri Power and Light/Ameren UE for 30 years before retiring. He and his wife, Wanda, also own LarSigns Engraving which they started in 1979. This business is very well-known by all the schools and sports organizations in town. For many years LarSigns has been where all sports trophies were purchased. Both Ray and Wanda enjoyed getting to know many of the athletes, parents and coaches throughout the years. He was a 60 year member of First United Methodist Church. Ray had many interests including fishing, gardening, collecting trains, and swimming in his pool. However, he especially enjoyed supporting all his kids and grandkids at sporting events. He and Wanda were considered the "JC Mafia" by many of the adopted staff at Panera from 2006 to the present. Ray's motto in life was "livin's easy, life is tough". Survivors include: his wife, Wanda; two daughters, Chedelle Rae Lootens and her husband Rick of Elston, Mo. and Shea Elizabeth Larsen of Jefferson City, Mo.; three grandchildren, Mackenzie Lora Elizabeth Townsend, Connor Joseph Townsend and Tatum Brede Townsend; and one great-granddaughter, Charlie Rae Townsend-Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lora Wynn Larsen; and his brother, Pete Larsen. Visitation will be held at the First United Methodist Church from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 24, 2018. A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Daniel Hilty officiating. Those desiring may make memorial contributions designated to St. Joseph's Bluffs Reach Unit, 1306 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com

Published March 21, 2018