Calvin Larson

Calvin "Cal" Lee Larson, 85, of Fergus Falls, formerly of Sandstone and Lake Kabetogama, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Riverfront on Main in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota.

Cal was born on July 23, 1940, in Cloquet to Melvin and Inez Larson. He spent his early years near Lake Kabetogama, where his father served as a game warden, instilling in Cal a lifelong love of the outdoors. At age 15, he moved with his family to Sandstone, MN, where he attended high school and quickly became known for his athletic ability, especially on the baseball field.

A talented southpaw, Cal excelled in baseball throughout high school and continued playing for many years afterward. He pitched for the Fergus Falls Red Sox amateur team during the 1960s and 1970s. Then, as a drafted pitcher for Alexandria, MN, he achieved one of the highlights of his athletic career by throwing a no-hitter in the 1967 Minnesota State Amateur Baseball Tournament. In recognition of his accomplishments and contributions to local athletics, Cal will be a 2026 inductee into the Fergus Falls Sports Hall of Fame in August,

While attending Sandstone High School, Cal caught the eye, and eventually the heart, of the school's prettiest cheerleader, Cheri Olson. The two were married in 1961 and shared 64 loving years together. Cal and Cheri began their married life in Minneapolis, where Cal worked for Swanberg-Scheefe Buick. Following the birth of the couple's first daughter, Lisa, the couple moved to Fergus Falls, where Cal worked, alongside his father-in-law, as an appliance repairman for General Supply Co. After welcoming their second daughter, LeeAnn, Cal began what would become a 28-year career with the City of Fergus Falls, eventually serving as Assistant Public Works Director. He also proudly volunteered with the Fergus Falls Fire Department for 19 years.

Cal's love for the outdoors remained central throughout his life. He treasured time spent hunting and fishing with family and friends, especially the trips that brought him back to Lake Kabetogama. He was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings, and most importantly, the local Fergus Falls Otters, following the sporting events and activities of his grandchildren. In addition to baseball, Cal enjoyed golf, weightlifting, running, and staying active well into his later years.

Cal was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Larson; mother, Inez Fluegge; brother, Gary Larson; and sister, Shannah Larson Kuhlman. He is survived by his wife, Cheri Larson; sister, Sandie Larson Fahrenkamp; daughters Lisa (Chris) Johnson and LeeAnn Larson; grandchildren, Mick (Lisa) Johnson and Haily (Sam) Braun; and great-grandchildren Blake and Clay Johnson and Nova and Luna Braun.

Assistance provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com