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Eileen Larsen Obituary



Eileen Larsen

Resident of Reno, NV

Foster City lost one of its true founders with the passing of former mayor and councilwoman Eileen Larsen on December 18th. Mother, grandmother, writer, artist, political activist and a fixture in the civic affairs of Foster City and San Mateo County, Eileen passed away peacefully in Reno, Nevada with her family close by. She was 76.

Eileen's career in Foster City politics spanned 32 years; she was the first woman elected to the Foster City Council, serving from 1974-1976 and again from 1996-1999 as mayor, vice-mayor and council member. Her countless contributions advanced the city's prosperity and growth and today her name appears on buildings throughout the city and on plaques at parks and bridges. She was also publicist for the San Mateo County Fair and Editor of the Foster City Islander.

Eileen's instilled in her three children, James, Christiane and Ross the idea that true power comes from knowledge and that regular people can influence great events if they stand up to be counted.

Eileen and her husband Don shared a marriage of 52 years, moving from Illinois to San Mateo, in 1962, and to Foster City in 1969. In 2001 they relocated to Reno to be closer to daughter Christiane, her husband Scott Brown and their young granddaughters Tara and Tess.

Eileen's quick mind, easy laughter and deep commitment to fighting for what was right will be forever missed by her family, friends and colleagues. She was a tree branch who reached out, and her passion will grow forever.

A celebration of Eileen's life will be held in Foster City January 7th at 6:30 PM. For details contact: [email protected]

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Dec. 29, 2010.

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December 24, 2010

I'm so sorry to hear about Elieen's passing. My thoughts are with the family. Kissy is thinking of her too!

Love always,
Kaitlin

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