Roger L. Larson

Roger L. Larson, age 87, died on Friday, May 23rd, 2025, at Brook Ridge Independent Living, Pharr, TX. Roger was born October 30, 1937, in Eau Claire, WI, to MH and Dorothy Miller Larson. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from the University of Wisconsin and his Doctor of Philosophy Degree from St. Thomas University in Minnesota. Roger and his family moved to McAllen in 1967. He was dedicated to the field of education. He had been a principal in Pharr for several years and then a principal at the following McAllen Elementary Schools – Alvarez, Austin, Navarro, Rayburn and Milam. As one parent stated, “Every now and then one comes across a rare individual who has touched many different lives. Mr. Larson is that individual. His compassion, love, intuitiveness, and genuine interest in helping students has been proven over and over. Everyone at these schools has been blessed to have known this wonderful man. He will be missed.” Upon retirement Roger taught educations courses at UT Pan American and was also a supervisor in the Alternative Certification Program at the university. Roger also spent a year as Headmaster of St. Martha’s Catholic School in Kingwood, TX. Roger was active in ATPE and other professional organizations. He was a third-degree knight in the Knights of Columbus and was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. He loved working in his gardens, traveling, and spending time with the grandkids. He could fix almost anything around the house. Roger was preceded in death by his brothers, Tom, Richard, Don, and Dale Steven and his sister, Dorothy Vanney. Roger is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen, two sons, Todd (Rosie) of McAllen, Timothy(Christy) of New Braunfels; six grandchildren – Michael A. Larson, San Marcos, TX, Johnathan P. Larson of Eugene, OR, Cristina Guerra De La Rosa (Rallie) of Edinburg, Julian (Barbara) Guerra of San Antonio; Alyssa M. Larson, New Braunfels, and Luna C. Larson, Acworth, GA; three great grandchildren (Viviana and Lilian De La Rosa and Jesse Guerra), and one sister, Janet (Dave) Taleff, of Lake Holcomb, WI. The family would like to thank Amediysis Hospice for the love and tender care they provided for Roger during his time with them. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM on Sunday, June 1st, at Kreidler Funeral Home with a recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 2nd at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church (chapel) in McAllen. There will be a private family entombment service at Roselawn Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Palm Valley Association of Retired School Personnel, c/o Terri Salinas, treasurer, 1913 Mynah, McAllen, TX 78504 or a charity of choice.

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Roger L. Larson

May 23, 2025