Grace Katherine Larson

Grace Katherine Larson

Grace Katherine Larson, 90, of Fort Scott, passed away Friday afternoon, Aug. 5, 2016 surrounded by family at Mercy Hospital. She was born June 27, 1926 in Sarcoxie, Mo., the daughter of Ben Logan and Ella Mae (Daffron) Shaffer. She married Alfred Lee "Swede" Larson April 11, 1947 in Joplin, Mo. He preceded her in death on March 2, 2006.

Grace attended public schools in Sarcoxie, Mo., and graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1944. She and Alfred moved to Baxter Springs in 1948 from Sarcoxie, and then to Fort Scott in 1959. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Fort Scott, and a member of the Faith Chapter No. 334 Order of the Eastern Star in Carl Junction, Mo.

Grace was a homemaker, active member of the Fort Scott community, and engaged in the upbringing of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Grace valued lifelong learning and was best known for her infectious laugh, giving spirit and caring for her fellow residents and the staff at Medicalodges in Fort Scott which resulted in her being nicknamed "Dr. Larson."

Grace is survived by two sons, Keith Larson and wife, Lois of Windsor, Mo., and Curtis Larson and wife, Cindy of Panama City, Fla.; a brother, Glen Shaffer and wife, Phyllis of Neosho, Mo.; three granddaughters, Jenna Wainwright and husband, Darren, Meagan Larson and Dr. Tosha Larson and wife Carmen Mills; three great-grandchildren, Madison "Madi" Larson, Grant Semler, and Kristen Wainwright; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband, Alfred "Swede," she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Urban and Norman "Lee" Shaffer, and a grandson, Corey Larson.

A private family graveside service will be held at Fort Scott National Cemetery with Rev. Steve Cole Officiating. Per Grace's wishes, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grace K. Larson Scholarship Fund at the Fort Scott Community College. Donations may be sent to, or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall St., P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guest book at konantz-cheney.com.