Barbara Larson

Barbara Ann (Branden) Larson, age 80, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, October 8, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer.

Barb was born on October 16, 1945, in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, to Theodore and Sylvia Branden. She attended Claire Ann Shover Nursery School and Fergus Falls Public Schools before continuing her education at the Minnesota School of Business.

On September 28, 1968, Barb married Wesley Larson at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls. Together, they raised their two sons, Brandon and Brent, and shared 58 years of marriage, building a life rooted in family and lasting friendships.

Barb spent her professional career in banking, working for Wells Fargo in both Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Tempe, Arizona. Throughout her career, she developed lifelong relationships with her bank colleagues.

In 1999, Barb and Wes moved from Fergus Falls to Gilbert, Arizona, later making their homes in Gold Canyon and Mesa. Although they embraced life in Arizona, Minnesota always held a special place in their hearts. Each summer, they returned to spend time with family and friends.

Barb's grandchildren were the light of her life. She spent countless summer days cheering on her grandchildren at dance recitals and baseball, softball, and lacrosse games. She also happily served as their personal summer "Uber driver" before they were old enough to drive themselves. Being present in their lives and watching them grow brought her immeasurable joy.

Barb is survived by her loving husband, Wesley Larson; her sons, Brandon Larson (Karen) and Brent Larson (Megan Shepherd); her six grandchildren, Madelyn Clancy (Ryan), Nick Larson, Lucas Larson, Evie Larson, Andy Young (Megan), and Tom Young (Lisa); and her four great-grandchildren, Nola Clancy, Emily Young, Finn Young, and Miles Young. She is also survived by her brother, Richard "Dick" Branden (Billie).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Sylvia Branden.

Barb will be remembered for her devotion to family, the love she gave so freely, and the happiness she found in simply being together. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the lives she touched will forever remain in the hearts of all of us who loved her.

Celebration of life: 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 30, 2026, at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, with visitation one-hour prior to the service.

Clergy: Reverend Eliza Johnson

Interment: Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com