Our Dad, Robert L. Carlson passed away on May 3, 2023. He was born on October 24, 1927, in Omaha Nebraska to Arthur C. Carlson and Elma Fields Carlson. His mother died in a car accident when Bobby was three years old. His grandfather Carl Carlson took care of him while his father worked. His aunt Bernice, widowed herself, would later marry Arthur and love and raise him as her own. He was ten years old when the family moved from Nebraska to California, settling in Los Angeles. He continued his education at Berendo Junior High and at Poly Tech High School. He entered the merchant marines at the age of 17 in 1944. Serving four years, seeing much of the world from ship and port. He joined the army for two years serving in the 82nd division paratroopers. While healing from a broken ankle he volunteered his typing skills to type up all payroll checks. The job made for a lot of friends and extra servings in the cafeteria! Completing is last tour in 1950. After his service he furthered his education by attending Woodbury Business College.
He was working at Hugh's Aircraft in the office when he met a young pretty woman named Jennie Lee. They were married in 1953. Three children were born soon after, Gregg in 1956, Stacey 1957, and Teri 1959. They were busy. Bob was in the insurance business and eventually moved to Turlock in 1964 and became self-employed selling cars out of Modesto on 10th Street. Advanced Auto Sales and "Bargain Bob" were born. Selling and trading cars for such items as a dune buggy, motorcycles, boats, a motorhome and even a horse and trailer made for an exciting childhood. Owning a cabin in Twain Harte with dear friends also made for some great memories of our dad. Choosing to move from Los Angeles to Turlock was a smart move he often said. Growing up in a small town with good schools and great neighbors made life wonderful.
In 1978 Bob made a career move into real estate. He worked for Stone Brothers Reality where he was salesman of the year many years. Appraiser and sales manager of their mobile home park, Homewood Village. Eventually he began to work alongside his daughter Stacey and son Gregg at Investwest Properties out of Hughson. He was very involved with the city of Hughson and a member of the Oakdale Country Club. Retirement was consumed with being grandpa, golfer, gardener and years later caregiver of Jennie. His final days were spent watching the almond trees grow and caring for his two dogs whom he loved.
Predeceased were his parents, several uncles, aunts and cousins. Wife Jennie and his daughter Stacey. Bob is survived by his son, Gregg Carlson and his wife Marlissa, Daughter Teri Nascimento and her husband Greg. Eight grandchildren Shawn, Ashleigh, Matthew, Lisa Joel, Chase, Brint and Andrew. Eight great grandchildren Connor, Avery, Wyatt, Beau, Olivia, Kate, Ryleigh and Tucker.
A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LakewoodHughson.com for the Carlson family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17