Edina, MN - John Randolph Larson, age 79, of Edina, Minnesota, was born January 24, 1947, in Montevideo, Minnesota. He spent his life in Minnesota, where he built strong connections with family and friends and was known for his good judgement, steady presence, sense of humor, and storytelling abilities.

John grew up in Montevideo, where he was known as "Randy." He played football in high school and later attended the University of Minnesota, where he joined a fraternity and made lifelong friendships. After a few carefree college years, John decided to pursue law, transferring to Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he focused his studies and set the course for a successful legal career. He later earned his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law.

John built a distinguished career in law and finance. He served the State of Minnesota under Governor Rudy Perpich and later worked in both public service and private practice. Over the years he held leadership roles with several organizations and companies and was widely respected as a municipal bond attorney and trusted advisor. He concluded his career as Of Counsel with Messerli & Kramer P.A.

Outside of law, John was a member of The Minikahda Club in Minneapolis which became a second home where he built lasting friendships and professional relationships, and he later served as president. John played many prestigious courses all over the US and United Kingdom including St. Andrews and Augusta National.

John spent the last years of his life traveling and enjoying life with his companion, Trudy Halla. This included winters in Tonto Verde, Arizona and summers at Trudy's Wisconsin cabin as well as trips to Europe.

Most recently, John made his home at Friendship Village in Bloomington, where the wonderful staff cared for him as his Parkinson's disease progressed. His family will be forever grateful for Bridget and the many other staff members who cared for him with kindness and compassion.

John was preceded in death by beloved wife, Sandra Larson; her son, Andrew Dypwick; his parents, Harold and Alice Larson; brother, Hal Larson; sister, Sara Siegel.

He is survived by sister, Pamela (Martin) Murphy; sons, Derek Larson, Bret (Leslie) Larson, and Jeffrey Dypwick. John was a proud grandfather to Jagger and Lily Larson, Braelyn and Kyler Larson, and Fletcher and Ruby Dypwick, all of whom brought him tremendous joy and pride.

A celebration of John's life will be held from 2:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 17th at The Minikahda Club, 3205 Excelsior Blvd., Minneapolis.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or to the Evans Scholars Foundation.