Brianne Rae Carlson

Brianne Rae Carlson; age 32; of Lake Orion, Michigan, passed away on September 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and boundless love after a brief but intense battle with an illness that she never stopped fighting. It did not defeat her!

Born on September 22, 1992, in Grand Haven, Michigan, Brianne was the cherished daughter of Eric and Nancy (Ciezak) Carlson. At a young age, she developed a passion for sports, playing soccer with unwavering determination from age 5 through her first year in college. Her love for adventure took her traveling to new places, and she found solace in the rhythm of waves on sandy beaches. As a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, she brought enthusiasm and joy to every game.

For a decade, Brianne served the Detroit Police Department with courage and dedication. Her commitment to protecting and serving others went beyond her role as an officer; it was her true calling. Brianne was known for her unwavering strength and resilience, never faltering in the face of challenges, and her wisdom beyond her years. She was the pillar of support for her family and friends, always reliable and steadfast.

Brianne is survived by her loving parents, Eric and Nancy Carlson; her sister, Jennifer (Carlson) Preston; and her brother-in-law, James Preston. She leaves behind not only her family by blood but also her family by badge, as well as a wide circle of relatives and friends who loved her deeply. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Margaret K. Gerhardstein; her uncles, retired Sgt. Ruvell Martin and Phillip Dean Herzhaft; and her beloved companion, Butters, with whom she is now reunited.

A service to honor Brianne’s life will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at 111 East Flint St., Lake Orion, MI 48362. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Brianne will be remembered for her fierce loyalty, incredible strength and determination, generous spirit, and the deep way she loved those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, as she taught others that with enough heart, anything can be overcome.

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