Lawrence George Larsson, aged 83, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Sacramento, CA. Born on May 15, 1941 in Chicago, IL, Larry, as he was affectionately known, embraced life with a spirit that was contagious and an optimism that brightened every room he entered.

Larry's early years were spent in the Midwest towns of Des Plaines and Mt. Prospect, Illinois, with his parents and two sisters (his best friends) where he enjoyed an idyllic childhood filled with sports and scouting. He graduated from Arlington High School in 1959 and went on to earn a degree from the University of Illinois in 1963. During his time at the university, he was an active member of Delta Chi fraternity.

Following college, Larry served as a Lieutenant in the US Navy from 1963 to 1966, a period during which he saw the world and fell in love with history and geography. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate multiple businesses, including a sporting goods store (The Green Squirrel), a women’s dress shop, a land development company, and a truck fabrication company. He later applied his sales talents to real estate in Tahoe City and Santa Barbara. His business acumen was complemented by his active participation in various community groups, including serving as a Housing Authority Commissioner for the City of Santa Barbara.

Larry’s passions were as varied as his career endeavors. He was an avid tennis player (and proud member of the Montecito Tennis Mafia), bridge player, lawn bowler, and skier. His interests in history and current events were profound, often organizing and participating in history and economic groups. Larry was passionate about democracy and at one point, founded a nonprofit to distribute soccer balls to children around the world (thefreedomball.blogspot.com) Of all his interests, though, he most cherished being with his family. He loved collecting snails, worms, and butterflies with his grandchildren when they were young, having long conversations about politics, sports, and business with his son, and laughing and telling stories at every family dinner and holiday.

He is survived by his son, Garrett Larsson; sisters, Ann Larsson Armbruester and Karen Larsson Yager; daughter-in-law, Anne Larsson; and grandchildren, Kianna and Logan Larsson, alongside many wonderful friends and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred Dillan Rosecranz and George Olaf Larsson.

There will be a small private memorial for immediate family only, reflecting Larry's wishes. He will be remembered for his ability to see the world through rose-colored glasses, bringing joy and laughter to all who knew him.

Larry lived by the motto "the world is a candy store" a philosophy that guided him through an enriching and joyful life. His legacy of optimism, love for life, and community involvement will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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