Phyllis Marie Larson

Phyllis Marie Larson

August 20, 1942 – March 26, 2025

Phyllis Marie Larson, 82, of Sterling, CO, passed away on March 26, 2025, in Denver. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Phyllis brought joy to those around her with her boundless energy and love for life.

Born on August 20, 1942, in Mandan, ND, to Wenzel and Minnie Cermak, Phyllis graduated from Mandan Senior High School in 1961. On September 22, 1962, she married the love of her life, Donnell “Don” Larson, in Mandan, and together they built a beautiful life, raising their family in Sterling, CO. After Don’s passing, Phyllis relocated to Castle Rock, CO, but always carried Sterling and its community in her heart.

For 35 years, Phyllis dedicated herself to the Sterling Public School system, working in various roles including school secretary and librarian. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and participated in numerous social organizations, including the Extension Club Rainbow of Happiness, Jaycetts, Beta Sigma Phi, and the Red Hat Society Club of Sterling.

Phyllis had an unstoppable spirit. Her grandchildren love reminiscing about all of their outings with her.

She cherished time with family, especially during the holidays—Christmas was her favorite season, filled with shopping, baking, and making memories. She had a passion for card games, family reunions, and traveling, particularly with her sister, Marilyn.

A devoted sports fan, she never missed an opportunity to cheer on her children and grandchildren at their events.

Phyllis is survived by her children, Darren (Emily) Larson, Craig (Karen) Larson, and Tanya Jones; grandchildren Carter Larson (Kristy), Grant Nieland (Kellyn), Tyler Nieland, Amanda Lionas (Nick), Melissa Lussier (Tim), Makenna Larson, Mitchell Larson, Bella Jones, and Sophie Jones; and great-grandchildren Scotty and Eleni Lionas, Summer and Millie deNagy, Hayes, Sloane, and Van Nieland. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don, and her parents, Wenzel and Minnie Cermak.

A service and inurnment will be held at a later date at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, ND, where Phyllis will be laid to rest beside Don.

Phyllis’s kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed but forever cherished.