Russell Gordon Carlson

Russell G. Carlson
Russell Gordon Carlson, 77, passed away peacefully May 17, 2017, at his home in Calabash, N.C., surrounded by loving family.
Russell was born Aug. 30, 1939, in New Milford, CT., son of the late Russell V. Carlson and Cathryn (Brophy) Carlson. He was also preceded in death by a son, Robin S. Carlson, a sister Sheila M. Smead, and a brother Ronald V. Carlson.
Russell is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Linda Mae Wolter Carlson; his devoted sons, Russell G. Carlson II and his wife Marianne of Ridgefield, Donald J. Carlson of Danbury, and Derrick S. Carlson of Brookfield; his grandchildren, Brianna and Matthew Carlson, Cassandra and Tanner Carlson, Nicholas DeMato, and Justin and Christopher Martirano; his cousin, Anne Given of Lockport, N.Y.; many beloved sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; several adored nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends, both in Connecticut and in North Carolina.
As a young man Russ raised purebred Ayrshire cows and won ribbons showing them at area fairs. He belonged to the 4-H Club and the FFA. He attended New Milford High School and worked at The Village Hardware Store, which his father owned. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves and proudly served from 1957-63.
At 19, Russ began his employment with Kimberly-Clarke Corp., where he spent his career in the manufacturing department. After nearly 40 years with K-C, he retired as a supervisor.
Russ was a volunteer fireman with the Water Witch Hose Company #2 in New Milford for 52 years and a lifelong member of Saint Francis Xavier Church of New Milford.
Russ was an NRA member, a dedicated fan of the New York Yankees, and an ardent NASCAR racing enthusiast, who enjoyed traveling with friends from New Milford to the NASCAR Cup races in New Hampshire and Dover.
Proud of his meticulously maintained yard, Russ loved all things motorized. He happily and lovingly polished his lawn tractor, truck, cars and any and all equipment he owned. He kept each thing in perfect condition with a "don't-touch-this" luxurious shine.
Most of all, he loved his sons and his wife Linda, whom he called his best friend and felt that she was his saving grace.
A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life will be held June 6 at 2 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 26 Chestnutland Road, New Milford.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Water Witch Hose Company #2, 8 Grove St., New Milford, CT 06776 .