Ellen M. Larson Irish
Ellen May (Gonnerman) Larson Irish, fondly remembered as “Granny”, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 2, 2024.
Born November 22, 1929, to Harry (Dad) & Grace (Hutchinson) Gonnerman, in rural York County, NE. The oldest of two, childhood in Shelby was full of laughter and good fun. After high school graduation, Ellen began teaching in rural Polk County where she boarded with Lawrence and Esther Larson. There she met Lawrence’s brother Willard, and they were united in marriage on February 1, 1948. Over the next 9 years they welcomed 3 children, Billy, Leonard & Debra. Throughout her life, Ellen was fascinated with her family history. Each time she moved, she would look up the name “Gonnerman” in the phone book and call whoever was listed. Not once did she reach someone who was not related.
Granny’s kitchen was one of her happy places, where she’d whip up a storm with a pinch of this and a dash of that. She’d say with a wink, “We’ve got Tupperware!”. Cooking with her was a joy, a time for sharing stories, laughter & love.
A master entrepreneur, she pursued her adventures with gusto. Her business savvy and deal-making skills were legendary. Ellen “retired” to Apache Junction, Arizona in 1995 but found it impossible to not work. Over the next ten years she continued to work until her eyesight gave out on her. In 2008 she returned to Minnesota (did we mention she managed to move 25 different times in her adult life?). Here she resided with her daughter Deb and granddaughter Jessica until going into assisted living.
Granny was a force of nature, always buzzing with energy and life. Her fiery spirit and quick wit inspired us all, and her infectious laughter could light up a room. With a twinkle in her eye and a sharp tongue, she could charm her way into any heart – or stir up a bit of mischief, depending on the moment.
Her legacy is a tapestry of memories, woven from threads of adventure, humor, and devotion. We’ll cherish the times she regaled us with tales, broke up parties with her wit, and showered us with love. Her impact on our lives is immeasurable, and we’ll carry her spirit with us always.
Rest in peace, Granny. Your spark will continue to ignite our lives, and your memory will be a blessing to us all.
She is survived by her children, Bill (Peg), Len & Deb, 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren & 11 great-great grandchildren.
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents Harry & Grace Gonnerman, brother Gail & wife Marge Gonnerman, Willard Larson, daughter-in-law Sheri (Hasselbalch) Larson, and son-in-law Michael England.
A celebration of life will be held August 10th, 2024, in Stromsburg. Gathering will begin at 11:00 am at the Buckley Park Gazebo. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in tribute of Ellen May Irish. Direct website URL: http://act.alz.org/ goto/ellenmayirish
