James A. "Jim" Carlson

1947 - 2025

Janesville, WI - James 'Jim' A. Carlson, 78, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. He was born April 1, 1947, in Walworth County to Carl J. and Betty J. (Hart) Carlson.

Jim was raised on a dairy farm in Walworth County where he learned the value of hard work, compassion, and community. He was a proud Vietnam veteran, drafted into the U.S. Army on July 5, 1966, and honorably discharged on June 27, 1968. After returning home Jim worked for several agricultural businesses including the Richmond Mill (supplied by Kent Feed) and MoorMan's before eventually joining General Motors. He worked nightshift as an assembly lineman to support his four children until he was forced into early retirement during the 2007/2008 economic recession and closure of the GM plant.

Jim cared deeply about the people and communities around him. Over the years, he found connection, purpose, and friendship in many groups, including the 12&12 Drop-In Center (AA, Al-Anon, and other support groups), the Mercy Cancer Support Group, the churches he attended and volunteered with, Alzheimer's research and awareness efforts, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Rock County, Paw Print Park Pack, the UAW veterans and retirees committees, and many, many of others.

Jim understood hardship and because of that he offered others deep compassion without judgement. The wisdom he carried from living a full and resilient life showed in the ways he supported others- showing up, listening, and giving of himself without hesitation.

Jim is survived by his children: Leif Carlson (fiancée Gianna Centinario), Hunter Carlson (fiancée Allison Becker), and Lindsey Carlson, all of Rock County; his sister Bonnie Carlson Kegley; his brother Eric Carlson; his nieces and nephews; and his many and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Whitney Carlson; the mother of his children, Dorthie Yurovich Carlson; his buddy, Bao Bao; and his brother, Chuck Carlson.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Apfel Wolfe Funeral Home in Janesville. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Military Honors will be presented following the service. Friends are then invited to gather at the 12&12 Drop-In Center for a luncheon (1pm) and fellowship / support group meeting (2pm) afterwards.

Memorial gifts are appreciated by the family and will be directed in Jim's memory to causes dear to him, including NAMI of Rock County, the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin, and Pine Lake United Methodist Camp.

Online condolences may be shared at www.apfelwolfe.com.