Russell Carlson

Born July 12, 1923, Russ was the youngest of three children born to Albin and Emma Carlson. His parents, along with many other families had come from Sweden and settled in Wiley Heights. This community would later be known as Swede Hill. Russ fell in love with the girl next door, Gladys Carney, and were married on her 21° birthday in 1948. Russ and Gladys put down their roots together, raising two sons Steve and Dan, making their lifelong home on Carlson Road. Russ and Gladys shared 72 blessed years of marriage before her passing in January 2021.

Farming was a way of life for Russ. He grew up around farming and livestock and proceeded to raise apples, cattle, hay, wheat and barley. Russ also raised his sons in the way of farming and farmed as a family for many years. Additionally, Russ spent 40 years working for Clasen Fruit. After he retired, Russ decided he was not ready to stop working and spent an extra 18 years working for Pepsi Cola.

In his spare time, Russ was a lifelong member of Wiley Heights Covenant Church, enjoyed visiting with friends over a cup of coffee, spent countless hours with his grandchildren, or lending a helping hand to whoever needed it. Russ had the gift of connecting with people. He was an incredible storyteller with great wit and was able to leave profound, lasting impressions on everyone he met, whether they were young or old. Many have had the pleasure of being positively impacted by his friendship and unconditional love. Anyone who knew Russ knew the two most important things to him was the Lord and his family. He showed others what it looked like to live a life of faith and trust in the Lord. He cared so deeply for all those he loved and prayed unceasingly for them. He spent many days patiently towing his grandchildren along for the farm chores. Instilling in them practical life skills and valuable life lessons. He was full of wisdom, love and guidance. Russ could not be at ease until he knew all his family were safe and accounted for.

Russell is preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, sister and son Dan. He is survived by his Son, Steve (Lori) Carlson; Grandchildren, Gavin Carlson, Emily (Brian) Young, Ginger (Mark) Acob, Ashley (Garrett) Owens, Brett (Emily) Carlson and eight great grandchildren, in addition to many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is planned for October 1, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Wiley Heights Covenant Church. This will be a combined service for both Russ and Gladys. Memorials may be made in honor of Russ to Wiley Heights Covenant Church.

Our family is greatly indebted to the professional and wonderful care he received at Cottage in the Meadows.