Leon was born April 3, 1919, in Decorah, IA, son of Martin and Anna (Sorenson) Larson. He graduated from Lone Rock, IA, High School in 1936. He enlisted in the Army in 1940, and was discharged in 1945. On August 8, 1948, he married RoseMarie Luedtke. Together they had one daughter, Dawn Marie.

In 1953 they moved to Rowan, IA, and operated a grocery store. And then in 1956 they moved to Rochester, MN, where he was employed by IBM, retiring in 1984. Before and after retirement from IBM he worked at Mayo Civic Auditorium as an usher for the entertainment performances and sporting events held there.

Leon was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, and served as an Elder for many years, and many other positions. He participated in and enjoyed sports of all kinds.

He was preceded in death by his wife, RoseMarie; his parents Martin and Anna; four brothers: Lloyd, Selmer, Arthur and Merton; and six sisters: Gladys (Everett) Gavle, Esther (Byron) Kruse, Myrtle (Arthur) Priebe, Ella (Norris) Otteson, Violet (Charles) Ramsey, and Madeline (Raymond) Priebe.

Living family members include his daughter, Dawn (Mark) Radtke; his sister Arlene (Ray) Thompson; and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral service for Leon will be at 11:00am on Friday, July 11, 2014 at Redeemer Lutheran Church with Pastor Adam Koglin officiating.  Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens in Rochester with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 92.  Visitation will be held from 9:30am to 11:00am on Friday at the church.

Memorials may be given to Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com