Richard Lee Carlson

Richard “Dick” Carlson went to be with his lord and savior and his beloved Norrene on April 28, 2023. He is preceded in death by his beautiful wife and infant son, and father and mother, Arnold and Audrey Carlson.

Dick was born on October 22, 1937. He grew up in Scottville with his older brother Jerry, and attended Central Michigan University, where he was part of the ROTC. Dick continued in the Reserves from 1955 until 1966. Dick met “his Norrene” in highschool and fell in love with Norrene as she cartwheeled across the Hart High School field. This was a story he always enjoyed telling about their love story. They raised their son, Jeffrey Carlson in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as Dick pursued his career in education as a teacher, principal and ended his career as the superintendent of Wyoming Public Schools, retiring in 2002 to spend more time with his wife, his grandchildren, his books, and his dog, Brandon.

Dick will be dearly missed by his son, Jeffrey Carlson (Danielle Packer) and daughter-in-law Benicia Kyle. He leaves behind his pride and joys, his grandchildren, Jordyn, Julia and Jaelynn Carlson, Jack and Sophi Kyle and his sweet Maeve Norrene Carlson. Dick will also be missed by his older brother, Jerry Carlson (Jan), best friend, “brother” Gary Roelof, and lifelong friend, Gary Hansen. Dick’s great kindness, love of people and humor will surely be missed by many wait staff at New Beginnings, his favorite breakfast stop.

We would like to thank the staff at MediLodge and Interim Healthcare of Grand Rapids for their kindness during Dick’s stay there.  In accordance with family wishes and Dick’s wishes, a celebration of life will be planned at a later date, details to follow.  In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Paws with a Cause.

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