Yvonne Evelyn Larsen

WINONAYvonne E Larsen, 65, joined her Heavenly Father on Monday, February 17, 2014 surrounded by her family. Yvonne was born February 21, 1948 to La Mae and Edward Becker in Winona. She graduated from Winona Senior High in 1966. She married the love of her life, Wayne Larsen, on October 8, 1966 and resided in Witoka until last year. Together, they raised 4 children. Yvonne worked at Ruth's Restaurant, Asco, cleaning houses, and for the City of Winona until her illness. She was also very involved in the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program for many years. She was also a member of the Elks Club. Yvonne, known to so many as Ma Larsen, will be remembered for her kind heart and willingness to go above and beyond for those she loved. Many people have been touched by this amazing woman. To her, family was not just her own flesh and blood, it was anyone that she came in contact with; if you knew her, you were her family. Her constant revolving door at home, her car always warm, and her hand out to those in need are just some of the qualities that made her who she was. She will always be remembered for cooking and baking, which has warmed the hearts of so many. Her motto when cooking was to always make enough food in case the neighbors stop by. She loved reading, especially cookbooks. Christmas time was so special to her. Driving around looking at lights, singing carols, and her holiday baking all made it special. She loved attending Houston Hurricane Sporting Events. Her constant smile and sense of humor could brighten the day. Even through her pain and struggles these last few years, she always made time for her family.Yvonne is survived by her husband of 48 years, Wayne; sons, Scott Larsen, Brian Larsen, Jasson Larsen; daughter, Heidi (Jason) Carrier; grandchildren, Gracie Larsen, Damon Carrier, Landon Carrier, and Ellasyn Carrier; brothers, David (Brenda) Becker and Dennis Sr. (Donna Becker); mother-in-law, Jane Soppa; nieces and nephews, Dawn (John) Brueske, Autumn Nyagaya, Andrew Becker, Dennis Jr., Edward (Tracy) Becker, Donald (Marge) Brown, Robert (Lisa) Brown, Michael and Emily Kutchara; as well as her husband's family.She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Lori Kutchara; father-in-law, Everett Larsen; and special pet, Bandit.Pallbearers are Tim Larsen, Corey Larsen, Gregory Larsen, Heath Larsen, Michael Kutchara, Dennis Becker Jr., and Edward Becker. Honorary pallbearers will be the loves of her life, her grandchildren.Please join the family in remembering her life at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Winona. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service. The family wishes you all to join after the service at Witoka Tavern for a luncheon to enjoy some of her favorite foods.We did not say goodbye, we said, until we meet again. Your heart lives on inside all whom you have touched. We love you, Mom!The family wishes to thank Winona Health nurses, staff, aides, and providers who have taken care of mom these last few years. A huge thank you to Dr. Katrina Hammel for all her support and caring words during this difficult time. What an amazing person she is.