Clifford ‘Cliff’ Larson

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ESCANABA - Clifford "Cliff" Larson, 82, Escanaba, passed away Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, after a courageous battle with kidney disease and diabetes, at Christian Park Healthcare Center with his family by his side.

He was born on Nov. 20, 1926, to the late Carl and Beaulah (Petersen) Larson in Escanaba.

On Feb. 25, 1949, he married the former Mary Jo Closs of Gladstone.

He joined the U.S. Maritime Service in 1944 until 1945 and then returned to Escanaba High School where he graduated from in 1946. He later served his country in the United States Army and spent time in Japan.

Cliff was a member of the American Legion Post 82, Salvation Army, Mead Management Club and was a Boy scout Leader.

Some of his past times were hunting, fishing, camping and he was an avid softball player, but his family, especially his grandchildren, his faith, helping others and spending time in his garden is what made Cliff the happiest.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years; four children, Alan (Connie) Larson, Beverly (Rick) Smith, Cathy Larson and Diane (Joe) Mayville; two brothers, Glen (Ruth) Larson and Stanley (Jan) Larson; one sister, Hazel Porath; one brother-in-law, Major Bob Johnson; six grandchildren, Nic (Heather) Larson, Greg Larson, Kate Lasnoski and Pierce, Riley and Dawson Mayville; one great-granddaughter, Tessa Larson, and her mother, Julie Larson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, David and Paul Larson; one sister, Anna May Johnson; and one grandson, Reid Mayville.

Friends may call from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6, at the Salvation Army Church (3001 5th Ave. S., Escanaba) with Delta County Veterans Council rites at 5:15.

A funeral service to celebrate Cliff Larson's life will follow military rites at 5:30 p.m. on Friday at the Salvation Army Church with Major Bill Cox officiating. A luncheon will follow services at the church.

Burial will take place in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery.

The Allo Funeral Homes of Escanaba and Spalding is assisting the Larson family with arrangements. Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to the Larson family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, his family requests donations be made to the Salvation Army of Escanaba. His family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff at Christian Park Health Care Center.