Richard Larson

WIND LAKE, WI Richard George Larson, 75, died on Friday, June 8 in his sleep at his home on the shores of Lake Waubeesee.  He is the beloved father of the late Kurt Larson of Wind Lake, WI; Hans Larson of Racine, WI; and Renya Larson of Brooklyn, NY.  He is also the beloved brother of William (Karen) Larson of Racine, WI and a cherished uncle, mentor, and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mabel Larson, son Kurt, and sisters Jean McDonnell and Marjorie Dawes of La Crosse, WI; and Barbara Craigmile of Columbia, MO.  Richard received a BS from La Crosse State College and a MA and PhD from Northwestern University.  From 1953 to 1955, he served in the US Army Combat Engineers in Germany, where he spent a year in Hanau painting murals on mess hall walls.   Richard dedicated his professional life to education.  He was a teacher, principal, and Assistant Director of Instruction for the Racine Unified School District from 1955 to 1957 and from 1959 to 1966.  From 1966 to 1990, he was Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at UW-M.  In 1962, Science Research Associates published his "Penskill" handwriting Program, which was used in elementary schools nationally.  Richard also wrote children's poetry and read it to over 45,000 students in 10 states.  He authored over 80 publications.   Richard filled his personal life with adventure and good company.  Those who knew him will cherish memories of fishing trips and campfires, houseboats and sandbars, poker games and football pools.  For a lifetime, Richard engaged us in both laughter and earnest conversation.  We will remember him for his exuberance and eccentricity, his intelligence and eloquence, his humor and creativity.  He leaves his spirit with us in his many works of art:  vignettes, essays, poems, drawings, paintings, and wood sculptures.   Later this summer, we will honor Richard with the joy and bounty that are his legacy. For information about his memorial celebration, please contact his family at his home: (262) 895-3765.   Mealy Funeral Home, Waterford, is assisting the family.  (262) 534-2233. www.mealyfuneralhome.com