Larry A. Oleson

A Memorial Service for Larry A. Oleson, age 78, of Spirit Lake, will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 2:00pm at Crosswinds Church in Spirit Lake. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 1:00-2:00pm at the church. Interment will be at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Larry Albert Oleson, age 78, of Spirit Lake, Iowa, passed away at his home on May 22, 2025.

Larry was born on September 19, 1946, in Dunkerton, Iowa, to Albert and Annabelle (Brough) Oleson. A proud patriot, Larry enlisted in the United States Air Force on June 16, 1965, serving honorably until his discharge on February 19, 1969, having attained the rank of Sergeant.

Following his military service, Larry pursued higher education and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa. Over the years, he made his home in several Iowa communities, including Waterloo, Janesville, and Charles City, before settling in Spirit Lake in the summer of 2006.

On August 12, 1988, Larry was united in marriage to Patricia Estes, with whom he shared many years of love and companionship. Larry was a hard worker and entrepreneur, once owning a cookie bakery and later working as an associate at Walmart.

A man of faith and broad interests, Larry was a devoted member of Crosswinds Church in Spirit Lake. He was also a life member of the Model T Club of America and the Antique Automobile Club of America. Larry found great joy in antique cars, reading mystery novels, and volunteering with KJIA radio as an ambassador—often participating in parades with pride. He also had a passion for dancing, enjoying square, ballroom, and swing dance styles.

Larry’s warm spirit and zest for life will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Oleson; his sister, Janee Ann (Ron) Johnston, and nephews, Craig and Jon Root; his sister, Bette Jean (George) Infeldt, and niece, MaryAnn; stepson, William (Ann) Ruzicka and their children: Wiley, Bridget, and Faith; stepdaughter, Elizabeth (Quincy) McKinney and their children: Eric (Alex) Ruzicka and Matt McKinney; and great-grandchildren: Gianna, Colette, Dominic, and Isabelle Ruzicka. He is also survived by extended family members and friends.