Deanna Lee Carlson

1937 - 2023

Deanna Lee Carlson
Born: September 16, 1937 in Joliet, IL
Died: October 11, 2023 in Joliet, IL
Deanna L. Carlson (nee Christensen), 86. God carried you home on eagle's wings Wednesday, October 11, 2023, surrounded by the love of family.
As a mother, Dea was always proud of her beloved children and their spouses;
Dale (Kim) Carlson, Connie (Mike) Roberts, Brian (Gigi) Carlson, and Andy Carlson (special friend Liz Duarte). Her joy was completed by cherished grandchildren; Jennifer Carlson, Jonathan (Jenna) Carlson, Mike (Jennifer) Roberts (and their two children), Joe Roberts, Justine (Abasi Jr) Kelley, Ian Carlson, and Andrea (John) Carlson-Gaeta, great grandchildren; Isla and Maverick Carlson, and Naomi Gaeta.
She is also survived by two caring sisters; Nel Gerencher and Ardis Pavlich, sister-in-law; Vicky Carlson, goddaughter; Wendy Thomas-Ballard, several cousins, many nieces, nephews and their growing families.
Dea had a smile and was friendly to many special people, including neighbors, those that assisted her, new friends, old friends, and those she met briefly.
Her life centered around her strong faith and was a past active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, and Faith Lutheran Church, where she worked and volunteered. She grew up in Lockport where she went to school. She belonged to Wilmington Recreation Club, camping for over 50 years alongside family and enjoyed the outdoors. She loved to cook and bake for family, friends and church events. Music, singing and dancing brought her happiness. A proud supporter of numerous Veteran organizations, charitable food programs, and the Will County Sheriffs Dept.
Preceded by husband; Don, parents; Emery and Lorraine Christensen, Mother-in-law; Pearl Carlson, Brother-in-laws; Raymond Gerencher, Robert Carlson and George Pavlich, daughter-in-law; Maria Tellez-Carlson, and nephew; Randall Gerencher.
A heartfelt thanks to staff and friends of the Heritage Woods, Minooka, the Timbers of Shorewood, DaVita Renal Care, Ascension St. Joseph, and Lightways Hospice.
Per Dea's wishes, Neptune Society handled the cremation. As a Veteran spouse, Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery will hold the memorial service Thursday, October 26, 2023, at 2:00. A celebration of life to follow. Interment of her ashes will be placed with Don, who proudly served in the U.S. Army.
Dea never gave up the fight of her illness and insisted, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are appreciated online or directly to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Lightways Hospice, or the Veteran organization of your choice.