Donald Larson

Jan. 9, 1937-Sept. 18, 2025

Donald Irvin Larson, 88, of Minot, ND, took on his heavenly wings on September 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with CLL and pancreatic cancer.

Don was born January 9, 1937, on the family farm, to Irvin and Selma (Pederson) Larson. He was the oldest of seven children and grew up near Minot. In his youth, he attended elementary school in a one-room schoolhouse, and later high school at Minot High. Following graduation, he attended Minot State University. Thereafter, he proudly served in the North Dakota National Guard.

Don was united in marriage to Shirley (Pollock) Larson in 1962. Together they welcomed two sons, Jeff and Steve, who were the source of his deepest pride. While raising their young family, Don farmed with his brother Duane. In his mid-20’s he earned his private pilot’s license and his commercial license shortly after that. He began working as a charter pilot for Pietsch Flying Service. Extending his distinguished and impactful career, he served nearly 25 years as President of Town & Country Credit Union, before transitioning into a career with Farmers Union Insurance.

Beyond his professional career, Don was exceedingly committed to his community and his lifelong passion for aviation. Don was an instrumental partner in the incorporation of the Dakota Territory Air Museum, where his passion and leadership have left an enduring legacy to the youth and public of the Minot area. His contributions to aviation were acknowledged by the receipt of the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in 2014, and induction into the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame in 2017.

Don was also a proud Lion, serving the Minot Lions Club for over 50 years. His dedication earned him numerous honors, including Lion of the Year, the Melvin Jones Fellow Award, and the Outstanding Service Award.

Family and friendships were central to Don’s life. He cherished his close, lifelong friendships with the Pietsch family; specifically, Warren and Jolene along with Kent and Marney. He valued countless others in both the Lions and aviation communities.

He is survived by his sons, Jeff (fiancée Carrie) and Steve (Jackie) Larson; grandchildren, Jace (Kim) Bush, Parker Bush (Josh Vannett), Taylor (Colten) Haider, and Keenan Best; great-grandchildren, Bailee Bechtold, Beau, Barrett, and Bennett Bush, and Cooper Haider; siblings, Janet (Bill) Nichol, Duane Larson, Marilyn Conery, and Lyle (Paulette) Larson; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Shirley Larson; sister, Marlene Skar; brother, Jerome, and sister-in law, Theresa.

Don lived a life of service, leadership, and love, leaving behind an example of faith, perseverance, and passion. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Dakota Territory Air Museum, Minot. A livestream of the service will be available on Don’s obituary page on the funeral home website.

Interment: Trinity Lutheran Cemetery- rural Minot.

Visitation: Wednesday September 24, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home- Minot.

Memorials are preferred to the Dakota Territory Air Museum.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com

Rest in peace Don. You will be forever cherished and remembered.

Published by The Minot Daily News, September 22, 2025.