Larry D. Kjono

Larry D. Kjono Larry Dean Kjono, age 72, of Detroit Lakes, MN peacefully went home to the Lord on Sunday July 12th, 2026, under the care of HIA Hospice Heather’s House in Fargo, ND. He was surrounded by his loving family. Larry fought courageously for the last 14 months after a colon cancer diagnosis. Larry was born the 5th of seven children to Lillian (Bredeson) Kjono and Roy Kjono on September 20th, 1953, in Fergus Falls, MN. When Larry was 6 months old, the Kjono family relocated to Twin Valley, MN, where he grew up and graduated from Twin Valley High School with the class of 1971. Lifelong friendships were cultivated during those years. After high school, Larry served in the United States Army from 1972 – 1974. Larry then worked for Lindblom Construction in Fergus Falls, MN and Stall Construction in Mahnomen, MN. In September 1986, Larry attended the Detroit Lakes Technical College where he earned a degree as an Auto Body Tech. On September 16th, 1989, he was united in marriage to Kimberly (Boe) Kjono, whom he met while attending Detroit Lakes Technical College. They made their home in Detroit Lakes, and were blessed with two daughters, Tiffany and Trista. Larry worked hard and provided for his family in the auto body field for 28 years. He worked for Bill Schwartz Auto and Finest Auto Body, both of Detroit Lakes. He finished his auto body career at Pete’s Auto Body Shop in Pelican Rapids. After retirement, Larry couldn’t sit still and went back to work part-time for Midwest Rod & Custom in Lake Park and Lakes Finest Collision Center in Detroit Lakes for seven years. Many dear friends were made throughout his career. In his spare time, Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, tending to his flower gardens and anything that involved being outdoors. Larry had a strong love and appreciation for nature and instilled this love in his family. He and Kim took frequent day trips on his Yamaha Stratoliner and a big road trip to the California Redwoods in September 2019. Family trips were taken to Disney World, Montana, The Black Hills, and Colorado. Itasca State Park and Long Lake Campground in Clearwater County were both family favorites for camping, hiking, picnics, kayaking and cross-country skiing. Larry had a strong sense of community and was quick to make friends. From store employees to people passing by his yard, and even those he’d encounter on the lake while kayaking, he always had a friendly conversation to share. He enjoyed cooking and would share his famous deer stew, potato dumplings, and homemade soups with his friends and neighbors. He enjoyed the little things in life and didn’t sweat the small stuff. He had a strong faith and trust in God that carried him through life’s challenges. Larry loved and cherished his entire family, near and far, and we all loved and cherished him. His greatest joy was his grandchildren. He loved attending their activities, taking them to fun places, and giving them sweet treats. He was the greatest and most involved Grandpa. Larry is survived by his wife of 37 years, Kimberly Kjono of Detroit Lakes. Daughters Tiffany (Josh) Krieg and Trista (McKay Galbrecht), both of Detroit Lakes. Grandchildren Grace, Greta, Maximus, Lenny, and Baby Girl Galbrecht due December 2026. Brothers Steven (Roxanne) Kjono of Fergus Falls, Gary (Barbara) Kjono of Fargo, and Duane (Marcia) Kjono of Thief River Falls. Sisters Susan (Mike) Rude of Waubun and Debbie (Tim) Martin of Moorhead, MN. And numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Barbara Jean Phelps. Memorial Services will be on Friday July 24, 2026; 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes. Visitation will be on Thursday July 23, 2026, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the David-Donehower Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes, and one hour prior to services on Friday. Interment will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Detroit Lakes, MN. Blessed be the memory of Larry. We will carry him in our hearts forever. His family would like to thank Dr. Wiisanen and his oncology team at Roger Maris Cancer Center of Fargo, ND and Perham, MN for their wonderful care and compassion during his cancer journey. And thank you to HIA Hospice for the comfort and peace they provided. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Friends of Tamarac Wildlife Refuge and HIA Hospice. ADVERTISEMENT