Thursday, October 1, 2026
Allison Elizabeth Chace Larsen, of Everett, Washington, passed away on March 15, 2026, at the age of 56, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer.
Allison was born on October 19, 1969, to Lynne and Robert Chace in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her family later moved to Longview, Washington, where she graduated from Mark Morris High School in 1987. She pursued a lifelong passion for education and leadership, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Washington, a master’s degree in education from Western Washington University, and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Washington. At the time of her passing, Allison was completing a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at Western Washington University.
Allison dedicated her career to serving students and schools, beginning as a teacher in the Lake Stevens School District and later serving as an administrator in the Everett School District. Most notably, she served as vice principal and then principal of Edmonds Woodway High School beginning in 2014. She was deeply committed to improving educational outcomes and expanding opportunities for student success, with a special passion for preparing students for post-secondary education. Her work shaped the lives of countless students and left a lasting impact on the communities she served.
In 1988, Allison was introduced to Michael Larsen by her sister, Andrea, in Seattle. Michael asked Allison about her goals in life, and she confidently replied, “to become president”—and she later noted that she was impressed he did not laugh. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They were married on September 22, 1990, in Longview, and made their home in Everett beginning in 1992.
Together they welcomed their first child, Nikoline, in 1996, followed by their second child, Annika, in 2001. In 2024, Allison and Michael opened their hearts and home to their third child, Kristen, following the death of her parents.
Allison cherished time spent with family and friends. She loved to travel and especially enjoyed frequent trips to Sunriver, Oregon, skiing adventures, and sailing. While she valued moments of rest and relaxation, her mind was never far from her work – always thinking about how to strengthen schools and create better futures for students.
Allison is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Michael Larsen; her children, Nikoline Ramos (Zachary), Annika Larsen, and Kristen Rhyne; her granddaughter, Nora; her father, Robert Chace; and her siblings, Andrea Braun (Tim) and Brian Chace (Pam). She was preceded in death by her mother, Lynne Chace.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, at 2 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Everett and will be live streamed for those unable to attend (please visit www.oslc-everett.com for details). Those wishing to honor Allison are invited to wear purple. Allison believed passionately in post-secondary education, and a scholarship fund in her name has been established through the Foundation for Edmonds School District. Donations may be made in her memory.
