Ellen Larson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Margie “Ellen” Larson. Ellen went to be with our Lord on March 31, 2026, in Prescott, Arizona, following a long illness. Cherished by all who knew her, she brought kindness, warmth, and joy to every life she touched. Her legacy of love, laughter, fairness, and generosity will live on in our memories and in the countless ways she made the world a better place.

Ellen was born on August 5, 1942, in Klamath Falls, Oregon, the second child of the late Roy and Margie Blackwell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Mr. Bob” Larson, and her brothers, Darrel, Jerry, and Jimmy Blackwell.

At the age of five, Ellen moved with her family to Madera County, California, where she attended school and later raised her children: Martha (Ernie) Arambula, Deanna Bryon, Lori (Tim) Rippee, and Lawrence (Margo) Pierini Jr. In 1975, she moved her family to Aromas, California. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 22 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

Over the years, Ellen held many jobs, but in 1979 she began her career with Granite Rock, where she found her calling. She ultimately retired in 2001 as Administration and Personnel Supervisor after serving in numerous roles within the company. Her years at Granite Rock were a great source of pride. During this time, she also became the first president of the San Benito Chapter of the National Association for Women in Construction.

Ellen married Mr. Bob on January 3, 1993, and expanded her family with his two sons, Robert and Sam Larson. During this time, she became an avid bowler and often traveled for tournaments with Mr. Bob until his passing on June 2, 1998.

After retiring, Ellen moved to Pioneer, California, but she never slowed down. For several years, she worked as an office manager for a small water testing facility while also developing her passing for sewing and quilting. She created beautiful quilts for family members and friends and was an active member of her local quilting guild. She dedicated much of her time to making quilts for hospitals and children’s charities, but always found time for her greatest passion, time with her family.

Ellen was affectionately known as Grandma Sugar and embraced that moniker with her whole heart. She created a warm and welcoming environment for family and friends, many of whom she embraced as her own. Each holiday and celebration was filled with her signature treats and decorations, along with an abundance of laughter and love. Ellen always looked on the bright side and saw the best in every situation. She loved meeting new people and was generous with her love and care.

In 2022, Ellen moved to Prescott, Arizona. Upon arriving, she once again became active in quilting, joining the local guild and sewing as much as possible before illness caused her to slow down.

A service to celebrate Ellen’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on April 21, 2026, at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest with Mr. Bob. A reception will follow at Espana’s 1460 East Pacheco Blvd., Los Banos, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Mountain Top Quilters Guild, P.O. Box 12961, Prescott, Arizona 86304

Family is currently editing the memorial book. Please do not purchase one until it is completed.