Larry Stephens

Larry Stephens, 85, of Elbow Lake, MN, passed away on September 15, 2024, at Centra Care Hospital in St. Cloud, MN. 

Larry was born in Elbow Lake, Minnesota on September 3, 1939, to Louis and Pearl (Olson) Stephens. A graduate of Elbow Lake High School, Larry competed in various sports, and in 1961 married Gail Margaret Folken. Throughout his life, he worked diligently at the Federal Soil Conservation Service in Elbow Lake, taking soil samples before transferring to the Twin Cities until retirement. Larry and Gail returned to Elbow Lake after retirement, living their dream life on Pomme de Terre Lake. Larry was a dedicated member of the Elbow Lake community, involved in organizations such as the American Legion, The Wendell Lions, and serving on the Board of SWCD. Larry was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.

An avid outdoorsman, Larry found joy in hunting, fishing, and traveling to Florida with Gail during the winter months. Their love for Florida eventually led them to purchase a home in Gulfport, where they created lasting memories together.

Larry will be deeply missed by his wife, Gail Stephens of Elbow Lake; his daughters, Lynn (Cory) Stephens-Benson of Burnsville, MN and Missy Stephens of Farmington, MN; his grandchildren, Melissa, Samantha, Kristina, and Jacob; his seven great-grandchildren, as well as his sisters, Sherry (Carl) Deimling of Lakeland, Fl and Tammy Stephens of Mankato, MN, and his brother, Gene Stephens of Alexandria, MN along with numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Pearl Stephens, his sister June, and his brother Robert.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at United Lutheran Church in Elbow Lake, with visitation starting at 10:30 AM. 

Funeral arrangements are entrusted with the Erickson-Smith Funeral Home of Elbow Lake.