Joan B. Larson

Joan B. Larson, a beloved matriarch whose heart was as vast as her devotion to family, passed away on January 18, 2026, in South Sioux City, Nebraska. Born on August 8, 1931, in Homer, Nebraska, she graced the world for 94 remarkable years. Joan's life was richly woven with love, laughter, and a deep faith that grounded her through life’s journey. Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the Dakota City United Methodist Church with Reverend Julie Raridan officiating. Interment will be at a later date. Visitation, with the family present, will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday morning. Mohr & Becker-Hunt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Joan’s career took her through various cherished roles, from working at the Red Rooster Cafe inside the downtown Younkers store in Sioux City, Iowa, to assisting in the lunchroom at Dakota City Public School, and engaging in ATV research in Dakota City, Nebraska. It was through these experiences that she exemplified a steadfast work ethic and a warm spirit, touching the lives of many within her community.

Education played a fundamental role in her life. Joan graduated from Dakota City High School, proudly setting the stage for a life filled with engagements and contributions that greatly impacted those around her. A devoted member of the Dakota City United Methodist Church since 1941, she immersed herself in her faith, participating in activities that enriched her spirit and those of others. Her proudest accomplishments included singing beautifully in the church choir, teaching Sunday School, leading Bible studies, and serving as a Den-Mother for the Cub Scouts. Joan's commitment to her church and community was evident in her active role in the Prayer Chain, offering prayers and support to those in need.

Family was always at the center of Joan's world. She married her beloved husband Murray Larson in 1953, and together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and music. Joan was devoted to her children—son Steven Larson, son David Larson, and daughter Linda (Ray) Sencenbaugh—often attending their activities and sporting events with a twinkle in her eye and pride swelling in her heart. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, Eric (Ashley) Larson and Corby (Samantha) Larson, and was an adoring great-grandmother to five—Noah, Kloee, Levi, Charlie, and Lola. The memories made during holidays, birthdays, and vacations stand as a testament to the love and joy she brought into their lives. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Jean Krause and Anne Danielson.

Joan’s love for family extended beyond her immediate relatives; she enjoyed many family reunions where she treasured the time spent with her extended family. The joy she found in these gatherings reflected her profound love for connection, understanding, and shared histories. She often reminisced about singing with her mother during her growing years, a cherished memory that highlighted not only her love for music but also the bonds that defined her youth.

Though Joan now joins her husband Murray, who passed away in 2012, as well as her dearly departed parents Edmond and Lura (Goodsell) Krause, brother Ronald Krause, and sisters-in-law Janie Armstrong and Mary Omdahl, and brother-in-law Curtis Larson, her legacy of kindness, faith, and love will forever resonate in the hearts of those left behind.

Joan B. Larson lived her life with grace and sincerity, a true devotee of her family and faith. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she loved and those who loved her.