Kenneth Carlson

KENNETH R. CARLSON

Kenneth Russell Carlson was born August 12th, 1929 and he passed away peacefully on May 22nd, 2018. He was the son of Swedish immigrants, Carl Gust Carlson and Kristina (Anderson). Born in Chicago, Ken was the only child in his family born in the United States. His sister, Elsie Gerber, and his brother, Wally Carlson, preceded him in death.

Ken grew up on the south side of Chicago near 61st and Green Street. At the age of 17, he asked his sister to provide her signature for him to join the U.S. Navy despite being one year under the required age. He served in the Navy as a Seabee for 20 years, traveled all over the world including Antarctica where he participated in Operation Deep Freeze III.

In 1954 Ken married his neighborhood sweetheart, Lois P. Waters. They raised five children, all born during his service years. After his retirement from the Navy he took his family, returned to Chicago and settled down in Evergreen Park, Illinois. There he supported his family as a union carpenter for 25 years. Once his hands had endured enough work, Lois and Ken retired to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Ken was a man of integrity, responsibility, and faith. He especially loved God’s provisions for him and his family, using them to grow throughout the years. He was the consummate husband, father, and grandfather. Ken is survived by his wife, Lois; their five children, Ken (Madeline) Carlson, Glenn (Jane) Carlson, Chris (Carey) Carlson, Roy (Janet) Carlson, and Jennifer (Eric) Bargerhuff; thirteen grandchildren, Shannon, Bridget, Peter, Madeline, Michael, Colton, Kenny, Ryann, Christina, Alison, James, Isaac and Jordan; and one great grandchild, Madeline.

A true family man, he will continue to live in our hearts.

Thank You, Lord. Our family would be shipwrecked without you.