The University of St. Thomas community mourns the loss of emeritus faculty member Norman W. Larson, age 90, who died peacefully at his home in Eagan on May 18. Larson taught writing, editing and press law in the Journalism and Mass Communication Department at St. Thomas for 32 years, from 1968 to 2000. He is survived by his son, Eric (’97, M.A. ’05) who has worked in St. Thomas’ technology divisions full-time since 1996. Larson is also survived by Eric’s wife, Ruth (’96, M.A. ‘00), and two granddaughters, graduating Candela (’25) and Chloe, an incoming St. Thomas first-year student.
At his retirement, one of Larson’s department colleagues remarked, “Mr. Larson is one of the most caring and compassionate professors I have ever met. He is so professional and yet, cares so much about each of his students." He maintained those connections through more than 1,000 friends on Facebook, where his bio read: “I always wanted to be a journalist. My aspiration was to work at the Minneapolis Tribune.” He fulfilled that dream when he worked at the Tribune from 1963 to 1967, prior to joining the St. Thomas faculty.
Per Larson's wishes, no services will be held. If so desired, memorials may be made to the Endowment Fund, St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral, 1701 5th St. NE, Minneapolis, 55413, or to donor’s choice.
