Frankie Larsen

Frankie Francine Larsen, age 83, of Storm Lake, Iowa died December 13, 2010 at Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake. Frankie Francine Heikens was born January 11, 1927 in rural Everly, Iowa, the daughter of Ernest and Frances (Mett) Heikens. She was baptized and confirmed at the Evangelical United Brethren Church near Everly. Growing up on their family farm, Frankie attended a one-room country school through the 8th grade and then graduated from Everly High School in 1945. Following high school, she attended Iowa State University, and later graduated from what is now the University of Northern Iowa in 1947, where she received her teaching certificate. Frankie taught grade school in Sloan and Sioux Rapids, Iowa. Frankie met Donald Larsen on a blind date at the Cobblestone Inn in Storm Lake. They were married on July 30, 1950 at the Congregational Church in Sioux Rapids. Together, they were blessed with two sons, Steven and Bruce. The family spent its early years together in Sioux Rapids, Linn Grove, and Laurens before moving to Storm Lake in 1960. After retirement, Donald and Frankie appreciated spending time at their winter home in Tucson, Arizona. Frankie enjoyed reading, sewing, playing bridge, bird watching, tending to her flower and vegetable gardens, and many church activities. She was a volunteer at the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake. Frankie loved traveling the world with Donald, especially to Alaska, China, Europe, and Hawaii. Persons close to Frankie appreciated her sweet disposition and quiet dignity. She was a loving wife and mother whose family was at the center of her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 60 years, Donald Larsen of Storm Lake, Iowa; children, Steven Larsen of Tucson, Arizona and Bruce Larsen of Highland Park, Illinois; brother, Howard Heikens of Arlington, Texas; sister, Ellen (John) Shaw of Milford, Iowa; special family friend John Mandelbaum of Highland Park, Illinois; and extended family and friends. Frankie was preceded in death by her parents. Memorials may be directed to BVRMC Hospice and Parkinson's Disease Foundation.

Frankie Larsen

January 11, 1927 - December 13, 2010