John "Phil" Larson

John Phillip Larson, known to all as Phil, went home to be with the Lord on April 23, 2026, in Fresno, California, at the age of 92. Born on September 5, 1933, in San Francisco, Phil arrived into the world alongside his twin brother, Don. Phil grew up on the family farm near Kerman, California where he developed the deep faith, humility, and work ethic that shaped his life. He graduated from Kerman High School in 1951.

Phil continued his education by taking classes at Fresno State and Point Loma University before answering the call to serve his country. In 1953, he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving with honor until his discharge in 1956, including two winters in Korea. He completed his reserve service in 1961.

Phil met the love of his life, Joyce Henriksen, through Fresno First Covenant Church. They were married on March 21, 1959, at Kingsburg Mission Covenant Church, beginning a 67 year marriage marked by devotion, partnership, and unwavering faith. Together, they raised two children, Tim and Lisa, whom he cherished deeply.

Phil and Joyce made their home in the country near Kerman. Phil ran the family farm with his father before joining Wilbur Ellis in 1963, where he built a respected 38 year career rooted in integrity, agricultural expertise, and lifelong friendships. He retired in 2000.

Faith and service were central to Phil’s life. He and Joyce were charter members of Kerman Covenant Church in 1970, which has now merged with La Vina Covenant Church. They have remained deeply involved in church life ever since. Phil also served his community through leadership on the Kerman Unified School Board and as the voice of Kerman High football, announcing games for nearly 20 years.

Phil served on the Fresno County Farm Bureau Executive Board, including two years as president. After retiring, Phil returned to public service when he was elected to serve three terms from 2002 to 2014 on the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, representing District One. He was widely regarded as a true public servant: Steady, principled, and committed to the people he represented in western Fresno County.

In 2014, his lifelong contributions were further recognized when he was awarded the President’s Medal of Distinction by Fresno State.

Phil always put God and family first. His generosity and willingness to help those in need have touched countless lives. Family gatherings, travels abroad, and time spent at their Morro Bay vacation home were among his happiest memories.

Phil is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Olive Larson, and his brothers, Galen and Don.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Joyce; his two children, Tim Larson (Michaela) and Lisa Goodell (John); and his three grandchildren, Tanner Torrano (Merisha), Haylee Hinson (Casey), and Lindsey Thompson (Ryan). He also leaves behind his five great grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Phil will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his service to others, his love for family, and the quiet strength that defined his life.

Services will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Graveside Service: 9:30 a.m., Fresno Memorial Gardens, 175 S. Cornelia Ave., in Fresno.

Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 a.m., La Viña Covenant Church, 15495 W. Whitesbridge Rd., in Kerman.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ag One Foundation in support of the John P. "Phil" Larson Endowment Fund. Please make checks payable to: Ag One Foundation (note Phil Larson on the memo line)

Checks can be mailed to:

Ag One Foundation

2910 E. Barstow Ave M/S OF 115

Fresno, CA 93740

or online at:

https://jcast.fresnostate.edu/agonefoundation/endowment/johnplarson.html