Judith Ellen (Klein) Larson, 75

After an 8-year battle with Alzheimer’s and a courageous struggle with COVID-19, Judith Ellen (Klein) Larson, age 75, of New Prague, died peacefully with her beloved daughters at her side on Sunday, August 2, 2020 at Mala Strana Rehabilitation Center and Assisted Living.  Judy was born May 5, 1945 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Phillip and Natalie (Galinski) Klein.  She was raised on the family farm, graduated from Brandon High School and later went on to the Minnesota School of Business.  Despite only living 7 miles apart, Judy did not meet the love of her life, Ron Larson, until both lived in the Twin Cities after high school.  They married in Urbank, MN on September 11, 1965 and made their home in Richfield, where Judy cemented her legacy as the best mother in the world while being a homemaker.  They bought a hobby farm in rural New Prague in 1980 in order to cultivate their love of horses.  After the move, Judy went to work at Chart Industries in various roles and at the time of her retirement after 35 years, she served as their International Customer Service Representative.  She was a member of the Sand Creek Riders Saddle Club and Ron and Judy passed on their love of horses to their daughters.  All 3 girls showed horses and Judy was their biggest fan, cheering at every event.  She reveled in everything family, children and grandchildren’s events, trips with the kids, family dinners, and time spent together.  She was always quick to say I love you and was always ready with a hug.  She was the best cook, famous for pork chops that have yet to be replicated.  She was an avid reader and loved Nascar; her favorite driver was Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  Judy’s greatest legacy was her kindness and soft-spoken demeanor; she was loved by everyone who met her, from her colleagues at Chart to the people she touched in her final years at Mala Strana Rehabilitation Center and Assisted Living.  Her beautiful blue eyes and her gentle smile will be missed by all who knew her.

Judy is survived by her 3 daughters, Jody (Jess) Janecek of Mounds View, Kimberly (Joe) Janecek of Blaine, Heather (Kevin) Seurer of Elko New Market; grandchildren, Matthew (Amanda), Joshua, Lucas, Tyler, Samantha, Emma, Audrey, & Caroline; great-grandson, Wyatt; brother, Richard (Denise) Klein of Carlos, MN.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald on March 5, 2017 and her parents.

Due to COVID-19, a private family service will be held at a later date in Urbank, MN.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation to the Alzheimer’s Association is preferred.  https://act.alz.org/site/Donation2?df_id=39209&mfc_pref=T&39209.donation=form1