Lee Richard Larson, 75, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, after a courageous battle with complications following his throat cancer treatment. He was born October 29, 1950, in Alexandria, MN, to Doris and Quentin (Bud) Larson. Lee grew up in Graceville, MN and graduated from Southwest Minnesota State University. Growing up in western Minnesota where his father was a small-town pharmacist, Lee was attracted to the healthcare field at an early age. As a result, he completed a Master of Divinity at the Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, CA, and eventually went on to receive his Masters in Public Health Administration from the University of Minnesota. He and his first wife JoAnne Nonnemacher had one son, Karl. They shared a deep love of sports and spending time together outdoors. After JoAnne passed away in 2003, Lee married Sheryl Ramstad on December 22, 2006.

Lee retired from his position as president of the Benedictine Health System Foundation and senior vice president of community engagement and innovation for Benedictine Health System in 2020 due to health reasons. Lee had served Benedictine since 1998 providing expertise, leadership, and knowledge to the ministry. He was known for his skill in building and maintaining an engaged staff dedicated to serving older adults. Lee represented Benedictine as a board member, while also serving as the president for the Catholic Health Association of Minnesota. He was also on the LeadingAge Foundation Board of Directors and St. Catherine’s University Advisory Board. 

Lee was an avid arrowhead collector and keenly interested in the Indigenous culture. He wrote poetry, read extensively, and deeply valued his family and friendships. His kindness to everyone and gentle soul created countless friendships, many of which have lasted a lifetime. Lee enjoyed spending time on Lake Ida in Alexandria where he loved to fish, work outdoors, and visit with his Cozy Nook neighbors. Faith was integral to who Lee was, and he participated in several Bible study groups. He blessed many with his words of wisdom. 

Preceded in death by his parents, Doris (Dyke) and Quentin Larson. Survived by his beloved wife Sheryl Ramstad, his son Karl Larson, his sister Laurel French (Ted) of Rapid City, SD, his step-children Sarah Kmetz, Charles Hvass, and Kristina Hvass; his uncle Milo Larson (Marge) of Pelican Rapids, MN; and six grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour before at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria. A luncheon will immediately follow. Memorials preferred to the Runestone Museum Foundation, 206 Broadway St., Alexandria 56308-1417 or Calvary Lutheran Church, 605 Douglas St., Alexandria 56308.