Mary “Mary Jo” J. Larson, 95, Escanaba, passed away peacefully early Monday morning May 12, 2025 in the memory care unit of Lakeview Assisted Living in Gladstone, with her loving family by her side. She was born on December 15, 1929 in Gladstone, MI, daughter of the late Earl and Thelma (Christoff) Closs. On February 25, 1949 she married the late Clifford “Cliff” Larson at All Saints Church in Gladstone.
Mary Jo graduated in 1947 from Gladstone High School and was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Wells. She enjoyed reading, gardening in her flower garden and spending time with her family. Mary Jo always maximized others while minimizing herself. Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth”. (MT 5:5).
She is survived by four children: Alan (Connie) Larson, Beverly (Rick) Smith, Cathy (Jim Roe) Gereau and Diane (Joe) Mayville, grandsons: Nicolas (Heather) Larson and Gregory (Samantha) Larson, Peirce, Riley and Dawson Mayville, granddaughter: Kate (Branden) Wellman, great-granddaughters: Tessa and Jocelyn Larson, great-grandsons: Sebastian and Tristan Deno and Jerret Gordon, as well as nieces and nephews.
Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 60 years, a grandson: Reid Mayville, and brothers: Earl and David.
Friends may call from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Friday May 16, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Wells. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:30 on Friday at church with Fr. Rick Courier officiating. Burial will follow Mass in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery. A luncheon will then be held in the church parish hall.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Home is assisting the Larson family.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to her family.
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"I have many fond memories of Mary Jo while spending time with the Mayville's camping and at family gatherings. She was always up for a walk, games, a good meal, and a good laugh. She loved spending time with family more than anything. My condolences to her family, she will certainly be missed."
-Kathy DuPont -
"Alan, Beverly, Cathy and Diane, ."
-Marian VanDrese -
"Alan, Beverly, Cathy and Diane, my condolences to all of you. Cliff and Mary Jo were our neighbors for many years in Soo Hill. I miss my life up there. I am also a resident at Lakeview in Gladstone. Len died Dec 19 2023. I came here in July last year. I am going to be 90 the end of the month. "
-Marian VanDrese -
"Al, Bev, Kate my condolences. Sounds like she was a wonderful woman with energy in her day. My sympathy on your loss."
-Kim Havinga -
"So enjoyed getting to know Mary and taking care of her. She will be missed."
-Chirs mcclinchy
