Darrel Larson

Darrel Irvin Larson, age 83 of Nelson, WI passed away at his home on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

Darrel was born on September 11, 1942, in Wabasha, Minnesota to Elmer and Ethel Larson. He was raised on the Markey Bluff in Nelson, Wisconsin where his lifelong connection to hard work and family. From an early age, he learned the value of helping others – whether in the fields or in daily life- a trait that would define him throughout his years.

He attended grade school in Deer Creek and graduated from Durand High School with the Class of 1960. On November 4, 1961, he married the love of his life and devoted partner of 64 ½ years, Darlene Hetrick, at Grace Lutheran Church in Nelson, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family, and shared a bond that served as an example to all who knew them.

Prior to opening his renowned shop, Darrel’s Repair, in 1974, Darrel worked in many trades that reflected his strong work ethic and wide range of skills. He spent time in a rock quarry, worked as a farmhand for Earl Hetrick, served as a mechanic at Yarlamik Chevrolet (now Paul Busch Auto), and contributed as a substation builder with Riverland Energy.

Darrel’s Repair became more than a business – it became a reflection of who he was. Known across several states for his remarkable ability to fix what others could not, Darrel earned a reputation as one of the finest mechanics of his time. The gears of his own mind were always in motion, even when sleeping. After late nights of working in his shop, he would go to bed only to wake up in a dream in which he would dream how to repair a car or piece of equipment that was puzzling him. He would head back to the shop, repair the item as he had dreamt, and continue to work into the early morning hours. His shop was meticulous, and when his sons worked beside him, they quickly learned that every tool had its place and every task deserved care and precision.

Yet what set Darrel apart even more than his skill was his integrity. He treated every customer with honesty and respect, often going out of his way to help those in need – finding affordable parts, giving away what he no longer needed, or taking on repairs that other had deemed impossible. He never complained, and he never turned away from someone who needed help.

Above all, Darrel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He lovingly referred to his three daughters as “his three squirrels”, and to his children he offered steady guidance and practical wisdom – often reminding them to marry someone who changes the oil, and to choose work they truly love.

Darrel served as President of Grace Lutheran Church for over thirty years, a reflection of his deep and steady faith. He believed that kindness, listening, and caring for others were the true measures of a good life.

Outside of work and church, Darrel enjoyed many simple joys - playing pool in leagues, tending to his garden, participating in antique tractor pulls, and serving as a pit man for his best friend of many years, Dave Rieck. Above all, he cherished dancing with Darlene, a joy that remained constant throughout their life together and brought happiness to all wo witnessed it.

Darrel will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Darlene; his children, Tamora (Todd) Bowen, Teresa (Al) Kaari, Terri (Randy) Johnson, Darrel Irvin ”Pete” (Debbie) Larson Jr., and Darin (Adrian) Larson; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Gracie (Ian) Billings and their children, Isaac, Evie, Max and Hazel; Mac (Ashley) Bowen and their children Nora and Nyla; Lexi (Jordan) Truell and their children Declan and Briar; Lucas Kaari; Vanessa (Nick) Stenstrup; Barry (Tiffany) Johnson and their children, Charley and Sydney; Heather (Peter) Groehler and their children Jessup, and Christave; Devon Larson; Olivia Larson; Sophia Larson, and Carter Larson; his sister, Carol Gander; and also by many dear friends who were like family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ethel Larson; his sisters; Lois Schlieker and Betty Evers; his brother, Don Larson.

A funeral service honoring Darrel’s life will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Grace Lutheran church in Nelson, Wisconsin, with Pastor David Peters officiating. Burial will follow at the Nelson Cemetery. A visitation will be held Thursday, June 18 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Talbot Family Funeral Home, Alma, Wisconsin and again one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.