March 28, 2024

Mary Ellen Larson

West Des Moines

Mary Ellen McQuern Larson, 101, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2023 at Arbor Springs, West Des Moines, Iowa.  A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 11am, June 9, 2023 at Iles Westover Chapel in Des Moines. Visitation will begin at 10am, prior to the service. Interment will be at 3pm, Maple Hill Cemetery, Osceola.

Mary Ellen was the daughter of Floyd E. and Daisy McQuern and born on August 5, 1921 in Clarke County, Iowa. She graduated from Osceola High School, attended Osceola Junior College and the University of Iowa. She was employed by Farmers Home Administration (USDA) long enough to retire in 1995. She married Lee C. Larson of Omaha on January 18, 1992 and they made their home in Des Moines. They traveled widely, including a special trip to Sweden.

Mary Ellen was a long-time member of Douglas Avenue Presbyterian Church and an over 50-year member of the Order of Eastern Star.

Mary Ellen is survived by two nieces and two nephews; 10 great nieces and nephews and six great great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and two sisters, Madge Dodson and Jane Friedmann.

Her family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the staff at Arbor Springs and Suncrest Hospice for their care and support of Mary.

Mary’s final instructions were to tell you she had a good life.

Online Condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.