Arnold Alfred Larson

Arnold “Bud” Larson, a dedicated public servant, loyal friend, avid outdoorsman, and beloved family man, passed away on July 14, 2026, in his hometown of Detroit Lakes at the age of 88.

Born on April 20, 1938, in Detroit Lakes, Arnold’s early life was shaped by a deep commitment to family, a sense of duty, and an enduring curiosity about the world around him. He graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1956 before embarking on a life path marked by service to both his country and his community.

Shortly after high school, Arnold entered military service with the United States Air Force in September 1956. He trained as a firefighter at Lowry AFB in Colorado in 1957, and served with the 72d Installations Squadron, Strategic Air Command, at Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico. Throughout his distinguished service until July 1960, he was recognized for his excellence and dedication, earning the Airman Achievement Award as Outstanding Airman and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award in November 1958. His military years remained a source of great pride throughout his life; the bonds forged and his devotion to duty became guiding principles in the years to follow.

Following his honorable discharge, Arnold pursued higher education at St. Cloud State University where he met his future wife and lifelong partner Judith Knutson in the fall of 1961. He graduated from St. Cloud State University in 1965 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. His academic path reflected his lifelong passion for understanding people and helping them lead better lives.

Arnold and Judith were married in 1963 at First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes, where they remained lifelong members. He served on the Church Council and enjoyed ushering for many years. In August of 1968 their son, Arnold "Morrie" Larson was born. They purchased a home together on Gary Avenue in Detroit Lakes where they spent their lives. He has one grandson, Jeff Larson, and always spoke of him with pride and love.

His passion for helping others found purpose in Arnold’s professional calling: social work. He began his career as a social worker in St. Cloud, serving from 1965 to 1967. In 1967, he returned to Becker County, embarking on an exceptional 36-year career as a social worker, retiring in 2003. During these decades, Arnold was a steadfast advocate and a source of comfort for countless individuals and families. His service to the county stands as a testament to his deep care for others and his unwavering belief in the power of compassionate support.

Arnold’s dedication extended beyond his profession. He was an active leader in the Boy Scouts, guiding Troop 646 for many years. As advancement chairman and later district advancement chairman, he nurtured generations of scouts, encouraging their growth and development. His efforts were recognized with the Boy Scouts of America District Award of Merit—a fitting honor for someone who gave so much back to youth in his community.

A proud member of the American Legion, Arnold served as both Commander and later District Adjutant. He also took a turn at managing the newsletter for the Legion, back before computers, which was a real chore and labor of love. The values instilled during his military career continued to guide his involvement, and he found camaraderie with fellow veterans throughout his life. In his later years, "Thursday Burger Night" at the Legion was a mainstay for Arnold and Judith, where he enjoyed visiting with friends and chatting with the staff.

Recreation and friendship were cherished pillars of Arnold’s days. He was a devoted member of the Detroit Lakes Sportsman Club, where he served as treasurer and was a long-standing participant in the trapshooting league, sharing many enjoyable outings with friends like Bernie Revering and Harry Johnston. Later, he found joy at pistol and rifle ranges, continually honing his skill, always in pursuit of accuracy and distance.

Arnold loved the northern Minnesota outdoors, especially in the crisp autumn air. Deer, duck, and goose hunting with good friends like Val Schaleben and Ike Harrington, brought him immense pleasure. He relished ultralight trout fishing in local lakes and streams in his younger years with his friend Dave Rogstad. Alongside his son and other friends, he spent winters cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

Retirement for Arnold was anything but idle. An avid bicyclist, he wore out two bicycles traversing the area, known for embarking on fifty-mile rides around the lakes—and always quick to remark on that infamous hill in Vergas. He also spent time traveling to gun shows and shops with friends Howard Fredine and John Hovdenes, building lasting memories and sharing stories along the way.

Collecting stamps and coins, reading widely—fiction, biographies, technical manuals (especially on firearms), and much more—Arnold’s intellectual curiosity never waned. His love of learning and reading was a passion that accompanied him throughout his life.

Those who knew Arnold remember his kindness and social spirit. He had a gift for making others feel comfortable, an open heart, and a willingness to listen and help. Whether through professional guidance, personal friendship, or simple acts of neighborliness, he touched many lives.

Arnold’s legacy lives on in his loving family: his devoted wife, Judith Larson; his son, Morrie Larson; his daughter-in-law, Veronica Larson; his grandson, Jeff Larson; his wife Georgina; and his great-granddaughter, Giovanna. He was preceded in death by his father, Arnold Larson; his mother, Verna Larson; and his sisters, Carol Coburn and Mary Anderson.

Visitation will be held at First Lutheran Church, 912 Lake Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the same location. Friends and family are invited to gather for a reception at the American Legion Post 15, 810 W Lake Dr, Detroit Lakes, MN.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family would encourage a donation to the Detroit Lakes Public Library or to your favorite charity be made in his name.