Ila Ruth Larsen
February 8, 1941 - December 16, 2019
Obituary
Ila Ruth Larsen
On Monday morning, December 16th 2019, Ila passed away at age 78.
Ila was born in Boise, Idaho on February 8th, 1941. She grew up on the Navajo-Hopi Reservation-Keams Canyon area in Arizona, and she later attended Arizona State College.
Hearing about the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, she made the journey north to vacation and visit relatives, unaware of the amazing blessings and people she would encounter there.
She started a job at Boeing and shortly thereafter was introduced to a handsome, heavy-browed Dane named Erling, who stole her heart. He proposed at Alki Beach, and they were married in February 1964.
Working side-by-side, they built their business, Air Carrier Interiors, on Seattle’s Boeing field, and years later moved it to the Kent Valley. Ila was a meticulous bookkeeper and advisor for the business as it flourished through the years.
Ila and Erling lovingly taught their three children, Erling Jr., Heidi, and Gunnar, that they could accomplish their goals through work and dedication. By involving their children in their growing business, they shared many values and life lessons with them. Erling Jr., Heidi and Gunnar learned to become independent & hardworking, and to apply their talents to become successful in all applications of the word, each going on to own their own businesses.
Among her opportunities to serve, Ila loved the Boy Scouts of America most of all and shared her myriad of talents with little boys who became strong men. In 2004, Ila received the highest honor bestowed by the BSA, the “Silver Beaver” award, for her extraordinary contributions as a volunteer.
Quilting, sewing, gardening, Zentangling, missionary service for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and striving to love, lead and guide her friends, grandchildren and other family members were her fondest priorities.
She excelled at them all.
Not only will her greatness be remembered, but it will continue as she progresses as a daughter of God.
Elsket Og Savnet
You will always be Sister Larsen to me. Gracious and graceful—I feel the warmth and strength of your soul as I think of you. I have not seen you for several years but am so happy that I can remember your voice and can hear you calling me “Chris” in your particular way. We 4th ward members shared many wonderful and spiritual times in that special building on the hill in Renton, those feelings and memories are special to me. So thankful I was in your ward family for many years. Thank you for your faithful example as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I will always think of your long years of service to many and how you endured valiently to the end.
What a joyful reunion you must have had with your husband.
Until we meet again—I hope you can tell my Mother hello for me.
With respect and love always, CWF