Brian Lawrence Carlson

June 11, 1949 – August 16, 2025

Brian Lawrence Carlson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 16, 2025, at the age of 76.

Brian was born on June 11, 1949, at The Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Lawrence and Phoebe Carlson. He was raised in a loving home alongside his siblings Melanie Jantzen-Kulp, Jeanne Mortensen, and the late Kenneth Carlson.

On August 14, 1976, Brian married the love of his life, Caren Clare Brunkow, at Wooddale Baptist Church. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Brian was a devoted father to Carol DiFrancesco (Eric), Joy Carlson, and Charles Carlson (Kim), and a proud grandfather to Eli Carlson, Noel DiFrancesco, Owen Carlson, Reece DiFrancesco, and Chloe DiFrancesco.

Brian earned an Associate of Arts degree from Metropolitan State Junior College in Minneapolis in 1970, and a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture from the University of Minnesota in 1973. He later became a Certified Optician through the American Board of Opticianry and served faithfully in that role at Pearle Vision from 1986 to 2017. He continued to serve his community working part-time at Menards from 2007-2020.

Brian had a deep love for biking and used it to bless others-faithfully fundraising for Camp Shamineau's annual bike-a-thon for 28 years. His life was marked by volunteer service, especially through his longtime involvement at Rockpoint Church and over 20 years of ministry at the Crossroads Chapel during the Minnesota State Fair.

Above all, Brian loved his family and the Lord Jesus Christ. His faith was the foundation of his life, evident in his joyful spirit, servant heart, and unwavering kindness.

Brian is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Phoebe Carlson, and his brother Kenneth Carlson. He is survived by his wife Caren, his children and their spouses, his grandchildren, and his sisters.

A memorial service to celebrate Brian's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday September 19, 2025 at Rockpoint Church in Lake Elmo, MN. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Rockpoint Church.

Brian's life was a reflection of love, faith, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.