Bobby Larson

Bobby D. Larson, 80, died Tuesday, April 29, in Topeka.
Bob was born in Salina Dec. 7, 1927, to Charles D. and Verneda P. Larson. He grew up in Abilene, graduating from Abilene High School in 1945. That same August, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, going on active duty in March 1946. He served in the Army of the Occupation in Germany with the 346th Engineer Service Company and was discharged in March 1947.
After his discharge, Bob entered Washburn University of Topeka, where he met Barbara Oldweiler of Mayetta. They were married Oct. 2, 1950, four days before Bob re-entered active duty service for the Korean War. He served with Company E, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division and was wounded in action at Konjiam-Ni, Korea, on Feb. 15, 1951, for which he was awarded the Purple Heart medal.
After his discharge in August 1951, Bob completed his education at Washburn University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1955.
He joined Kansas Power and Light in Topeka in 1948, working in the warehouse. He was employed by KP&L for 35 years, retiring in 1983.
Bob was a member of the Highland Park United Methodist Church, American Legion Capital Post #1 and a life member of VFW Post 1650.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons David and his wife, Karen; and Stephen and his wife, Rebecca and five grandchildren.
Visitation will be at Penwell-Gable Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 2. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at Highland Park United Methodist Church, 2914 SE Michigan, followed by a graveside service at Mayetta Cemetery.