Mr. Lorne Albert Larson of Red Deer, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Regional Hospital on May 18, 2026, at the age of 88 years. Lorne was born on February 3, 1938, to Lawrence (Lars) Vanner Larson and Annie Rebecca (Steed) Larson. His parents married in 1935 and settled on a small homestead in the Alhambra area. The district had been known as Horseguard until 1914 when the arrival of the railroad brought the new name. Lars and Annie cleared the land by hand and built a small working farm that supported their young family. Lorne was the second of three sons Marlyn Emil 1936 to 1936, lived only five months and Aldrich Leslie 1941 to 2002. It is not known whether Lorne was born at home or in a hospital. Given the time-period and the distance to Rocky Mountain House, which was about 24 kilometers away and a four-to-five-hour trip by horseback, it is likely that he was born on the farm.

Lorne’s birth was difficult, and he suffered oxygen deprivation that affected his development. It became clear early in his life that he would face lifelong cognitive challenges and would not be able to live independently. In the early 1940s, children with developmental delays were often kept out of public schools, and Lorne was not permitted to attend with the other children. He spent his childhood at home, helping where he could and remaining close to his parents.

Lorne’s mother passed away suddenly while he was still young. This left him in the care of his father and his younger brother, Aldrich. When Aldrich left home at sixteen to work on the rigs, Lorne and his father moved into Rocky Mountain House to live with his grandmother, known to the family as Granny Larson.

After his father passed away, Lorne’s guardianship and care was transferred to the province. He later moved to Red Deer, where he joined a supportive home environment with caregivers and peers who understood his needs. This move became one of the most positive turning points in his life. In Red Deer, Lorne was encouraged to learn new skills, build friendships, and experience a level of independence that had not been possible earlier. With the help of dedicated caregivers, he found meaningful work and gained a sense of pride and purpose. Lorne is lovingly remembered by his niece Bonny (Larson) Funke and her husband Lee Funke, along with their two sons Braedyn and Connor. He is also survived by his nephew Leslie Larson and his wife Sonya Larson, along with their children Jonah and Hannah. Also left to morn his loss is his best friend Rose, his roommates and the rest of his friends through Etana. His family and friends remember him with affection, respect, and gratitude for the gentle presence he brought into their lives.

Lorne’s life was shaped by resilience, quiet strength, and the steady support of those who cared for him. His journey reflects both the challenges of his era and the lasting impact of compassion and community. A Celebration of Lorne’s Life will be held at Parkland Funeral Home, 6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer, Alberta on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Cremation entrusted to Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, Red Deer, Alberta. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

“Caring Community Compassion Since 1999”

6287 – 67A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

• Date : 2026-06-05
• Location : Parkland Funeral Home (Red Deer) www.parklandfuneralhome.com 403.340.4040