Francine Louise Larsen, 84, of Marion, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 21, 2018, at Winslow House Care Center in Marion, Iowa, surrounded by her loving family. Visitation: 5 – 7 p.m. Monday, March 26, 2018, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Marion. Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Marion, conducted by Father David O’Connor. Burial will follow at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.
Francine was born June 6, 1933, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Martin and Mirriam Berntsen. She was a 1951 graduate of Marion High School. On May 8, 1954, Francine married the love of her life, Walter Larsen, Jr. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, who lived life to the fullest. Francine enjoyed walking, shopping (Especially a good sale), spending time with her family, but most of all she loved to laugh!
Francine is survived by her children, Jean (Dennis) Gehring of Marion, Steve of Keokuk, and Christy (Jay) Willson of Marion; grandchildren, Tamara (John) Byers, Corrine (Chad) Wilson, Melissa (Chris) Cannon, Zach (Amanda) Willson, Amanda (Daniel) Spencer, and Gracie (Chris) Modrow; ten great-grandchildren; brother, Earl Berntsen of Webster City; sister, Patricia (John) Miller of Marion; special aunt, Bonnie; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Francine was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Walter Jr.; and daughter, Sandy.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Winslow House Care Center for the care they gave Francine.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Francine’s memory may be directed to Winslow House or Alzheimer’s Association.