Ronald Larson

Ronald Charles Larson, 64, of Machesney Park, IL, passed away surrounded by family on February 16, 2025. Ronald was born on October 19, 1960, in Rockford, IL, son of Richard Charles Larson and Betty Lou (Mallicoat) Larson. He graduated from Hononegah High School in Rockton, IL, in 1979, where he played football. He was known to his teammates as "Moose." He married the love of his life, Becky, on September 5, 1981. Ronald was an avid gardener who loved to grow both flowers and vegetables. He was a faithful Chicago Bears fan, but was an even bigger fan of his grandchildren. He loved cheering them on at all of their sporting events and was always the loudest one in attendance. Ronald loved his grandchildren, and was affectionately known to them as "Goofy Grandpa." He loved being outdoors, spending time with his daughter at his grandkids sporting events and really enjoyed his son's cooking. Throughout his life he had boats, snowmobiles, campers, and was especially proud of his outdoor kitchen that he built himself. He also enjoyed his fish ponds and aquariums. He was a hard working family man. He was especially proud of being an excavator and being able to fix just about anything. His proudest career accomplishment was assisting the firefighters with battling the Wagon Wheel Lodge Resort fire. He had a love for cars and trucks, especially his 1971 Malibu. Ronald was a funny, caring and loving person, whose smile was the brightest in the room. He will be missed.

Ronald is survived by his wife Rebecca (Becky) of 43 years; his children Tifany (Gene) Murath; Casey Larson; grandchildren; Austin Murath; Hailey Murath; and Alexis Murath. He is also survived by his sister, Sue (Jeff) Green as well as several aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; and Ronald's dog Oreo. He is predeceased by his parents Richard Charles Larson, Betty Lou (Mallicoat) Larson; and grandson Braden Murath.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Ronald on March 1, 2025, at Life Church 5910 Elevator Rd, Roscoe, IL, 61073 in the Kids Life Gym from 12pm-4pm.There will be a short service at 12pm, followed by an open house until 4pm. Special thanks to Pastor Jeremy for his loving assistance to the family. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com