Irene "Jo" Joann Larson

 It is with great respect and fond remembrance that we celebrate the life of Irene Joann Larson, née Johnson, who passed away peacefully in Lakewood, Colorado, on February 28, 2025. Born on September 17, 1929, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Jo lived a life marked by kindness, humor, ambition, and honesty. Jo embarked on her educational journey at a remarkably young age. She began schooling in a one-room schoolhouse and swiftly advanced, graduating from Cedar County High School in Hartington, Nebraska, at the age of 15. Her dedication to learning led her to the University of Nebraska, where she earned a teaching degree and became a proud member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. After an initial career in teaching that took her to Nebraska and Iowa, Jo returned to complete her Bachelor's degree. Jo devoted over 20 years to educating young minds as an elementary school teacher, with her career spanning across Iowa, Nebraska, and the Denver and Jefferson County schools. Her professional accomplishments were matched by her personal dedication to family, as she took a 12-year pause in her teaching career to raise her three beloved sons. In retirement, Jo found joy volunteering as a docent at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Her enthusiasm for learning and sharing knowledge never waned. Jo also cherished her time with the book clubs and bridge groups she was part of, where lifelong friendships were nurtured. Her social circle expanded further through her late husband Don’s civic and social group associations, filling her life with vibrant companionship and joy. Jo is lovingly remembered by her sons, Eric (Lori), Neil (Dana), and Lee, along with her cherished grandsons Ethan (Amanda), Sten (Jess), Zane (Zoe), Tor, and her great-grandson Bodin. Her family remembers her not only for her ambition and integrity but for the warmth and laughter she brought into their lives. A service to honor Jo's life will take place at Applewood Valley United Methodist Church, located at 2035 Ellis Street in Golden, Colorado, on Thursday, March 13, at 1:00 p.m. Flowers maybe sent to the church, and donations in her name may be made to the Action Center, located at 8745 W 14th Avenue in Lakewood, Colorado. In remembrance of a life well-lived, we celebrate the legacy of Irene Joann Larson, whose compassionate spirit, dedication to education, and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew her.