Ellsworth R. Larson

Ellsworth R. Larson, age 89, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Ellsworth was born on December 28, 1936, at the family farm in Ham Lake, Minnesota, to Herbert and Mabel (Pedersen) Larson. He grew up rooted in hard work, family, and community values—principles that guided him throughout his life. He attended Forest Lake High School. He worked for Houle’s Feed Mill and Great Northern Railroad. He later answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1959 where he worked on radios. Following his honorable discharge, he returned home, where he built both his career and his family.

On January 18, 1964, Ellsworth was united in marriage to his loving wife, Carol Johnson. Together they shared many years of partnership, laughter, and devotion to family. Ellsworth worked as an electrician for the Burlington Northern Railroad, a job that reflected his strong work ethic and reliability. He also owned and operated Ellsworth Larson Pumping Service, proudly advertising with the memorable line, “Call Stinky.” His humor and personality were as much a part of his business as his hard work.

Ellsworth truly enjoyed life. He loved playing cribbage, deer hunting, fishing, bowling, and playing bingo. Known for his quick wit and constant supply of jokes, he had a gift for making people laugh and putting others at ease. Above all, he wanted everyone to get along. A proud and well-known member of his community, Ellsworth often joked that he was related to half the people and friends with the rest—a sentiment that rang true to all who knew him. His dedication to others extended even into times of loss; Ellsworth faithfully attended funerals to support his friends and their grieving families, always arriving with a card in hand, a small but meaningful gesture that reflected his deep care for his community. Even in death, he remains connected to the people he so faithfully showed up for.

Ellsworth was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Mabel Larson; his beloved wife, Carol; son-in-law, Joe Brisson; siblings, Edna Larson, Glenn Larson, Sharon Annis, Curtis Larson, and Byron Larson; brother-in-law, Ray Kerg; and several aunts, uncles, nephews, and cousins.

He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Denise (Kevin) Meissen, Chris Rath (Ben), Kim Brisson, Kelly (Lance) Dorsher, and Rochelle Larkin; grandchildren, Michael Rath, Laura (Rusty) Pitz, Elizabeth Larkin, Michelle (Aaron) Armstrong, KC (Tammi) Larkin, Randaline Rath, Joseph Meissen, Sabrina (Quinn) Larkin, and Shelby Ahola; great-grandchildren, Cherokee, Emily, Daniel, Kiowa, Carol, Paris, Ronin, Declan, Trinity, Evelynn, and Coralee; son-in-law, Pete Rath; siblings, Charlene Kerg, Valoris (Dave)Nelson; sister-in-law, Bev Larson; brother-in-law, Terry Annis; special friends, Pat Chevron, Amanda, and Britt; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Ellsworth leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and unwavering presence. His stories will be shared, his kindness remembered, and his spirit will live on with his family and in the community, he loved so deeply.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 16, 2026 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, Minnesota.  Visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service.  Interment at Scandinavian Cemetery, Forest Lake, Minnesota.