James R. Larson

James “Jim” Ray Larson, 75, of Whitehall, died Friday, July 31, 2026, at Pigeon Falls Health Care Center in Pigeon Falls.

Jim was born March 30, 1951, in Whitehall, to Wallace “Doc” and Grace (Hanson) Larson.

Jim worked all of his life. Starting at a young age of about five, he loaded his wagon with cow pies and fertilized the local banker’s yard in Pigeon Falls. The Larson family moved to Whitehall where Jim had a paper route. He delivered hundreds of papers a day on his bike in all of kinds of weather. He was very proud and dedicated to that job and every job he had after that.

During his high school days, Jim worked for Abner Thompson and Sid Peterson and also caddied for Pete Paulson for 25 cents. In his senior year, he worked nights at the Whitehall Packing Company.

Jim graduated from Whitehall Memorial High School in 1970, and married Patricia “Patti” Frei in 1972, who he met in the 1st. grade. Jim and Pat worked together, having three bars in ten years and owned and drove their trucks for thirty years. Jim finally retired in 2017. Up to his last day, he talked about driving truck.

Jim enjoyed going out and visiting with friends. Club Midway, Arctic Springs and Wason’s were his favorites, meeting lots of good people and being good friends with all.

Jim was one that would talk to everyone. Usually before he was done talking with them, he would know somebody that they knew or were related to.

“We had many fun times together. I could write a book. But it was always because we have so many good friends over the years. You rest now, Jim. We’ll take the wheel from here. Love you always.” ~ Patti.

Jim is survived by his wife, Pat; two nieces: Melody (Larson) Harding and Eric (Larson) Cooper; in-laws: Jim and Lou Ellen Frei, Joe Frei, Charlie and Bev Frei, Juli and Gary Nodby and Rick and Linda Frei; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a sister, Amy Larson; a brother, Greg Larson; a brother-in-law, George Frei; a nephew, Mark Frei; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Whitehall-Pigeon Rod and Gun Club, rural Whitehall.

Jack Funeral Home in Whitehall is assisting the family with arrangements.