Gerald L. Larson, 83 of Aledo, Illinois, passed away Saturday, April 25, 2026, at MercyOne Genesis Aledo Medical Center. Per his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and there will be no services at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mercer County Family YMCA. Online condolences can be left at www.fippingerfuneralhome.com.
Gerry was born on November 6, 1942, to Berton E. and Lily M. Kohtola Larson in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in the Quad Cities and proudly served in the United States Army, training at Fort Leonard Wood to be later stationed in South Korea. Gerry married Vickie D. Hoskins on January 12, 1973, at Keithsburg Christian Church in Keithsburg, Illinois. He farmed in the Mercer County area for many years and worked at General Grind and Machine before retiring.
Gerry had strong faith and enjoyed listening to Shepherd’s Chapel Church services. He was an ornery but efficient and innovative problem solver finding ways to complete everything on his own even when everyone else thought it was an impossibility. He enjoyed helping others and getting the job done. His work ethics were not only superior but undeniable no matter what task stood in his path. You could find Gerry sharpening the blades on his reel lawn mower just waiting to go cut his grass preferably every day. When the grass was growing Gerry was going. If one of his neighbors was struggling Gerry grabbed the reel mower and crossed the street without hesitation or question. He had to be active daily following his personal routine. He took his dog “Autumn” to the Aledo Cemetery to walk hills daily, sometimes multiple times, no matter the weather or temperature. Not only did he visit daily for the sake of exercise for himself and his loyal companion but to also find an excuse to shoot the breeze with his good buddy Ed Dellitt. He was passionate about lifting weights with age playing no role in his physical mindset. After a morning of following his routine you could find Gerry at Ariana’s ordering his favorite meals, enjoying a freshly baked cake made by his wife at home, or the Little Debbie aisle at Walmart or Mercer Market. Gerry loved to eat and the only thing greater than his active mindset was his sweet tooth.
Those left to cherish his memory include his devoted wife of 53 years, Vickie Larson of Aledo; children, Jeff Larson of Eldridge, Iowa, Matt Larson of Oak Run, Illinois, and Missy (Darren) Harrison of Seaton, Illinois; grandchildren, Austin (Katie), Hunter, Ella, and Lilly; great grandchild, Evie; father in-law, Gene Hoskins; sisters-in-law, Linda Hoskins, Sondra Hoskins, and Susan (Hoskins) Chase and her husband Dennis; several nieces and nephews; and his dog and best friend, Autumn.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ron; sister, Carol; mother-in-law, Darlene; and brother-in-law, Jack.