Jean L. LaRue, age 64, of Tomah, WI, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Emplify by Gundersen in La Crosse, WI. Jean was born on February 18, 1961 in Tomah to Harold and Eda (Henning) Backus. She was a 1979 graduate of Tomah High School.
Professionally, Jean was a respected employee at Kinder Manufacturing and Toro in Tomah, where her work ethic, team spirit, and friendly demeanor made her a valued colleague and friend. Jean shared over three decades of marriage with her loving husband, Harlo LaRue. Together they built a life full of laughter, support, and mutual respect.
She is survived by her loving husband, Harlo; daughter, Amber (Larry) Gransee; Harlo’s son, Brian LaRue; grandchildren, Darrien, Hunter, and Leah; her brother, Bill Backus; sister-in-law, Michelle LaRue; brother-in-law, William LaRue; three nephews; one niece; her Aunt, Donita Henning; along with a host of special cousins, other relatives, and friends who will miss her deeply.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Eda; her brother, Gary Backus; sisters-in-law, Pam Backus and Londa LaRue; and brother-in-law, Joe LaRue.
A Celebration of Jean’s Life will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Pastor Mark Kahrs will officiate. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday at the funeral home. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
