Obituary

Carl Henry Larson passed away May 28, 2025, at Edgewater Retirement Community in West Des Moines, Iowa. He is survived by his wife, Dixie; his daughter Ann (Gloria Garcia) Larson; son, Tom (Alejandro Aguilera) Larson, Steve (Carol Mason) Mather, Alison (Todd) Cate, 4 grandsons and 5 great-grandchildren. Further survived by 5 nieces and nephews and their families.

Carl was born December 13, 1926, in Sioux City, Iowa. He graduated from Central High School in Sioux City in 1944. He was then drafted into the US Army during WWII. Carl served in the 6th Infantry Division in the Philippines and completed his tour at MacArthur’s Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. After the war, he pursued his education in colleges and universities in Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. He earned Bachelor, Masters and Doctorate degrees in Education. His career in education spanned numerous towns and cities in northwest Iowa. He was a basketball coach, English teacher, School Superintendent and Education Department Head. Carl completed his working career as Vice President at Iowa Central Community College.

From Carl’s early adulthood, and throughout his life, he had a passion for the arts. He composed countless poems, wrote plays and researched and completed history books. He shared his wisdom through commencement addresses, church lessons and social club presentations. Carl loved writing and learning his whole life. Retirement interests included three-dimensional art, playing bridge, golfing, reading, and enjoying University of Iowa sports. Carl also served on college, hospital, and condominium association boards.

Family and friends were a priority for Carl. He imparted advice to us and was always a keen listener. A visit with Carl always involved a good conversation while working on the latest crossword puzzle. His compassion for humanity was a trait admired by those around him. Travelling, cooking and entertaining with his wife Dixie filled his days.

A service for family and friends will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa on June 16, 2025. Visitation begins at 9:00 am, with service at 10:00 am. A private graveside service will follow at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. To view the livestream of the service please visit: https://wdm.lutheranchurchofhope.org/funeral-livestream/

Memorial contributions can be made to The Salvation Army. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com

Dad, your love is felt by all of us. We love you!

Arrangements by Iles Dunn's Chapel

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