Mr. Edward A. "Ed" Larson

Mr. Edward A. “Ed” Larson, 78, of Rio, Illinois died 6:10 p.m. Monday, July 20, 2020 at his home. 

He was born March 12, 1942 in Galesburg, Illinois to Martin and Anne (Bloom) Larson.  He married Helen Rednour, August 13, 1960 in Rio.  His wife of almost 60 years survives. 

Also surviving is a son, Mark Larson of Woodhull, Illinois, three daughters, Lisa (and Gary) Nelson of Woodhull, DeAnne Larson of Cutler, Illinois, and Tracey (and Jason) Bailey of Galesburg, and four grandchildren, Nicole West, Steven Larson, David Larson, and Shelby Bailey.  He is preceded in death by his parents and a daughter-in-law, Kate Larson. 

Ed attended Alexis and AlWood schools.  He worked as an experimental research designer for International Harvester in Moline, Illinois for 21 years and retired in 1982.  He also worked on the family farm in the Woodhull area.  Ed was a volunteer for the Rio Fire Department for over 50 years.  He was a Rio Village Board Trustee for 37 years and was the street and water superintendent during that time.  He was a member of the Henry County Farm Bureau.  He was a “die hard” NASCAR fan where Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. were his favorite drivers.  He was a St. Louis Cardinals fan.  He enjoyed watching his grandchildren show livestock.  He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  They were his world. 

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2020 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel.  Funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the chapel with Pastor Maura McGrath-Nagle officiating.  Due to guidelines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and facemasks will be required.  Burial will be in Rio Baptist Cemetery, Rio.  Memorials may be made to the Rio Fire Department.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com. 

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