Rudy Larson

Former Troy resident Rudolph "Rudy" F. Larson, 77, died Tuesday, March 13, 2007, at Spokane Veterans Home after a lengthy illness.

He was born Nov. 20, 1929, in Fergus Falls, Minn., to John and Irene Larson.

Rudy was raised with five siblings in Troy, graduating from Troy High School in 1950. He played football, basketball and ran track for the Troy Trojans and was a Golden Gloves boxer.

Rudy joined the Army in 1951 and served in Japan.

He graduated from Eastern Washington University in Cheney with a degree in education.

Rudy taught industrial arts at Argonne Junior High, which he retired from. He had lasting friendships with many students until his death.

Rudy lived on Lake Couer d'Alene until his retirement. He enjoyed being near the water, and boating and fishing with friends and family.

Upon retiring, Rudy moved to LaConner, Wash., where he lived on his boat. He later moved to Hartstene Island, where the "fishing was to be much better."

He enjoyed fishing with his buddy Sam, boating, his John Deere tractor, tinkering in his shed, spending time with friends, traveling to Alaska to fish with family, and his annual trip to Mexico where he made many friends.

Rudy's illness brought him to Spokane two years ago to be closer to family.

He will be fondly remembered for his twinkling eyes, infectious laugh and his teasing ways. His nieces and nephews would squeal with delight upon his arrival at family functions. He loved the challenge of a good game of cards.

His daughter and two granddaughters were the joys of his life. He was very proud of his granddaughters and followed their activities faithfully.

Rudy was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Neil Larson; and his brother, Jackie Larson.

He is survived by his daughter, Laurie Zinke, and her husband, Dave, and granddaughters, Elizabeth "Libby" and Lacey Zinke, all in Missoula; sisters Marie Magneson, and Dorothy Morrison and her husband, Bud, all in Spokane, Marlene Challinor in Missoula and Kathy Mally in Juneau; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial reception will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 1, at Associated General Contractors Building, 4935 E. Trent, Spokane.

Friends may make memorial contributions to West Valley Cares, which is a fund assisting needy students at West Valley High School. Make checks payable to "West Valley Cares" and send to Spokane Teachers Credit Union, South Hill Branch, 820 E. 29th Ave., Spokane, WA 99223.