Lawrence Joseph Alfson

Lawrence Joseph Alfson, age 104, of Litchfield, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home, where he continued to live independently until his final days. A funeral service will be held at the Litchfield United Methodist Church on Sunday December 28, 2025, at 1:00pm. A visitation will be held from 12:00-1:00PM prior to the service.

Lawrence was born on March 30, 1921, in Cyrus, Minnesota and lived a life marked by faith, family, and hard work.

On July 26, 1941, Lawrence married Bernice Florence Ness, also of Cyrus. Shortly after, Lawrence served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. While he was away, Bernice and their son, Ron returned to Cyrus. After the war, the couple reunited in Minneapolis, later settling in a home they built in Roseville, where children Arlen and Janice were born. In 1955, they built a home in Lauderdale, welcoming daughter Sheryle and creating a family home for nearly 40 years. Lawrence and Bernice later enjoyed time in Glenwood and eventually built their dream home on Lake Ripley, where they spent nine wonderful years together until Bernice’s passing in 2009. Lawrence remained there for the rest of his life.

Lawrence graduated high school and began his career at North Star Mills before joining Minneapolis-Moline Power Company on August 28, 1941. After his military service, he returned to Minneapolis-Moline, where he worked for nearly 40 years, retiring as plant superintendent. He later worked as a sales representative for Heartland Industries.

Lawrence lived life to the fullest. He loved cats, built two homes with his own hands, and was instrumental in founding Camp Shamineau Bible Camp, where he served on its board as well as on the Evangelical Free Church Board. Since living in Litchfield, Lawrence and Bernice attended the Litchfield United Methodist Church. Even at age 100, he was mowing seven lawns and enjoyed driving his golf cart around the neighborhood. He loved rides around the lake and trips to the Litchfield airport to watch planes. A gifted pianist and singer, Lawrence played by ear and cherished Christian music, especially the Gaithers and programs on the Seventh-day Adventist Channel. He and Bernice shared a love for camping and traveled extensively in their motor home after retirement.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his beloved wife Bernice; parents Maude and Joseph Alfson; sister Leona Gildseth (Bennie), brother Manfred Alfson (Evelyn), and sisters Grace Solvie (Edgar); and Marcella Hansen (Arne). He is survived by his children Ron (Paula), Janice (Dan), Arlen (Debby), and Sheryle (Dean); eight grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the family to support Lawrence’s favorite charities.