Josephine “Pena” C. Larson, 89, of Gladwin, MI, passed away on November 29, 2023. She was born on November 25, 1934, to Giovanni and Julia Petitti in Michigan. Pena was united in marriage to Raymond Larson of Ishpeming on May 18, 1956, sharing 65 years together until his passing in 2021.
Pena lived in many Michigan communities over the years (Flint, Cheboygan, Sault Ste. Marie, Saginaw) before settling in Gladwin in 1968.
Pena was passionate about her work in nursing. She worked in labor and delivery and ER at Midland Hospital as a nurse for many years, before transitioning to working at doctor’s offices. She was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church, Gladwin, devoting her time and energy over the years to the church’s quilting group and women’s alter service.
Everyone who knew Pena knew how much she loved to make handmade cards, and anticipated each new creation that she would send for birthdays and other holidays. She enjoyed cooking, and her friends and family looked forward to the various Italian, “Yooper” and dessert dishes she made over the years, especially her delicious cinnamon rolls. She and her husband Ray enjoyed traveling both within the US and abroad.
Pena will be fondly remembered by her children: Denise (Bob) Malosh of Commerce Township, Mark (Venita) Larson of Glennie, and David (Jennifer) Larson of Dearborn; grandchildren: Savannah, Allison (Allen), Ryan (Michelle), Eligh, Kent (Josh), Dominique, and Adrian (Brooke); and great-grandchildren: Damien, Eleanor, Henry, Vincent, and Santiago.
Pena is survived by her younger sister, Geraldine “Gerry” Baker, inlaws Kenneth and Betty Larson, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Joseph, Jimmy, Geno and Jenny, and her beloved husband, Ray.
Memorial services honoring Pena will be conducted by Pastor Emily Olsen on Friday, December 8, 2023, 12:00 P.M. at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Gladwin. The family will receive friends from 11 am until the time of service at the church. Interment will take place at the Christ the King Lutheran Columbarium. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin. www.hall-kokotovich funeral home.com.
