Barbara “Barb” Larssen Nelson Baggs 

May 1, 1937-October 23, 2026 

Barbara Larssen Nelson Baggs-known as Barb to most, Mom to some, Grandma to many, and Baba to her great-grandson-passed away on October 23, 2026, in Aurora, Colorado, at the age of 89. Born on May 1, 1937, in Stamford, Connecticut, to Adolph and Helen Nelson, Barb lived a life rich in harmony, lifelong learning, and deep devotion to her family (both fur and human types). 

Music was a thread woven through every chapter of her life. She earned her BA in Music from Duke University in 1958, establishing a lifelong foundation for performance and education. Pursuing higher musical mastery, she later earned an MA in Music from Colorado State University in 1984. Over the course of her career, Barb shared her gift by teaching music and piano in schools and private lessons, instilling a love of music in generations of students. For decades, Trinity Lutheran Church in Ft. Collins served as the spiritual home for Barb and her late husband, Charlie. There, she was an integral and passionate member of the choir and handbell ensembles, filling the sanctuary with music and fellowship. 

Alongside their shared love of music, Barb and Charlie shared a deep, lifelong affection for animals and the outdoors. For as long as their children can remember, the household was filled with the warmth of pets—there was always a dog, a cat, or multiple of each underfoot. Rooted in Barb’s love of horses from her youth, equestrian life was a major thread through every move: from making many "horse friends" while living in Rhode Island, to managing a barn with up to 12 horses in South Carolina. Later, raising cattle became a cornerstone of their life, creating cherished family traditions as children and grandchildren gathered to help care for the calves each season—with Barb always insisting that every cow have a proper name. 

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph and Helen Nelson; her husband, Charles Baggs; her daughter, Susan Wedeman; her son, Scott Baggs; her son-in-law, James Belak; and her grandson, Brandon Bishop. 

She is survived by her children: David (Louise) Moody of Vienna, VA; Karen (Joseph) Frary of Aurora, CO; Diane Belak of Trinidad, CA; and Ellis Baggs of Richmond, VA. She also leaves behind a proud, loving legacy in her 11 grandchildren, her great-grandson, and her faithful dog, Jello. 

Barb will be laid to rest alongside her beloved Charlie at Trinity Lutheran Church, in Ft. Collins. Funeral and memorial service details will be announced once finalized. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barb’s memory to Trinity Lutheran Church in Ft. Collins, a local animal shelter, or a music education charity of your choice.