John V. Larson

John V. Larson, 56, of rural Little York, Il died at 7:55 A.M. Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at his home.

He was born Nov. 27, 1956 in Monmouth, IL the son of Philip and Dixie (Murphy) Larson. John was raised and educated in rural Little York, graduating from Yorkwood High School in 1974 and attended the University of Iowa.

John worked as a parts salesman for Cavanaugh Motors in Monmouth, parts and service manager for McReede Motors in Keokuk, IA, manager at Big River Box in Keokuk and later for Jefferson Smurfit-Stone in Galesburg.

He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Monmouth. John was an avid Bears fan and loved to go fishing and boating on the Mississippi River. He was a gun collector and enjoyed working on the family farm.

Survivors include his parents, Philip and Dixie Larson of Little York; his son, Brian (Holly) Larson of Monmouth; his daughter, Mary Beth (Matt) Giddings of Kirkwood; grandchildren, Tyler Larson, Brianna Larson, Letticia Larson, Logan Larson, Mason Giddings and Mallory Giddings; sister, Jana (Scott) Blankenship of Dexter, MO; brothers, Jay (Teresa) Larson of Aledo, Josh (Tina) Larson of Keithsburg; nieces, nephews and his beloved cat, Al E. Cat.

He was preceded in death by his son, Dustin Larson; grandparents, John & Mildred Murphy, Vernon & Verna May Larson; great aunt and uncle, Ray & Alice Sterett.

Graveside services will be 11:30 A.M. Saturday, April 20, 2013 at Warren County Memorial Park, Monmouth. Visitation will be Saturday morning from 9:00-11:00 A.M. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 120 S. Sunnylane , Monmouth. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Diabetes Association or his grandchildren's education fund. Arrangements are being handled by McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, 309-734-6008.

To view John's Tribute Video please select the following link: