Daniel Ross Larsen

Daniel Ross Larsen, born Feb. 18, 1961, peacefully acquired his angel wings April 6, 2026, surrounded by his family while his favorite songs were played.

He was born in Villa Park, Ill. where he spent his days wrestling, participating in gymnastics, and assembling model cars. He loved summers up north water skiing and boating with his friends. The friendships he forged in his youth were truly lifelong. Dan attended Willowbrook High School, followed by DAVEA vocational school for welding.

Moving up north to Rhinelander, Thanksgiving weekend of 1988, he soon met the love of his life, Lynne, on Feb. 10, 1989. They married Nov. 30, 1990.

Together they raised four children and several fur-children. Dan dedicated his career to welding where he worked at Twist Drill for many years, followed by work with Buck Eckert and Eckert Wrecking, welding for Hodag Country Festival, landing at Musson Brothers in 2004 where he retired from in 2023. Dan was very creative and skilled in welding and wood working, crafting many projects and beloved pieces for his family and friends that will be cherished for years to come.

He enjoyed music, ice fishing, hunting, and collecting artistic knives. He could often be found working on brain teaser puzzles, searching through his favorite ISpy books, and cheering on the Packers with his mother in law, Norma, “Go Pack Go!” Dan valued family gatherings such as holidays and birthdays when everyone was together, and always looked forward to bringing home a real Christmas tree. He loved old movies and television shows, and all of his dogs through the years who are now wagging their excited tails as they reunite with him for eternity.

Most of all, Dan loved his family. Dan and Lynne often danced at home together, using music to express feelings that were stronger than words. With unwavering patience, Dan taught his children how to drive, how to shoot guns, to accept everyone, and to always help anyone in need — human or fur covered. He adored his grandchildren and loved being silly with them, dancing around the kitchen, playing games, letting them drive the family pontoon boat, and sneaking them candy.

While music couldn’t save his mortal soul, he did believe in rock ‘n’ roll…please honor Dan by listening to his favorite song;

“So bye-bye Miss American Pie. 

Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry.

Them good ol’ boys were drinkin’ whiskey and rye,

Singin’ this’ll be the day that I die…. this’ll be the day that I die.” - American Pie by Don McLean

Dan was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Larsen. Dogs: Shiloh, Gracie, Kima, Mia, Kia, and Joe.

He is survived by his wife, Lynne Larsen; mother, Sue Larsen; siblings, Karyn Hansen and Gary (Chris) Larsen; children, Amber Larsen, Ryan (Ashley) Larsen, Danielle (Eric) Walters-Larsen, and Ellie Larsen; grandchildren, KennaLynn, Trent, Garrett, Mallory; and many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, friends, and granddogs who will hold his memory close in their hearts.

A memorial luncheon will be held for Dan from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 26, 2026 at the Pelican Town Hall, located at 4093 County Highway P, Rhinelander, WI.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Oneida County Humane Society in his name.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.