Charles Carlson

Charles John "Chuck" Carlson

Charles John "Chuck" Carlson, beloved father, partner, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, in Boise, Idaho. He was 87 years old.

Chuck was born on October 9, 1938, in Norfolk, Nebraska. He grew up on a farm in Lindsey, Nebraska, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and community that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Newman Grove High School in 1956 and went on to attend the University of Nebraska, majoring in economics. During his time there, he formed lifelong friendships as a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.

In 1960, Chuck married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Johnson. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force until 1966. That same year he was hired by Northwest Airlines as a commercial airline pilot, beginning a career that allowed him to see much of the world. He eventually settled in Gig Harbor, Washington, which became his longtime home.

After losing his wife unexpectedly in 1992, Chuck met JoAnne Aitken who was his loving partner for 27 years.

While Chuck traveled to countless countries during his career, the great American road trip was his true passion. He loved cars and the open road, finding joy in the journey as much as the destination.

Though Gig Harbor was home, Chuck also cherished his winters in Sun Valley, Idaho. In both communities he was an active and engaged participant, always willing to lend his time and energy. In Gig Harbor he attended Agnus Dei Lutheran Church, and in Sun Valley he worshiped at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. He was an avid hunter and a longtime member of the Gig Harbor Sportsmen's Club, the Gyro Club, and Canterwood Golf and Country Club. His strong sense of civic pride led him to serve on several committees and boards, including the Design Review Committee for the City of Gig Harbor.

An entrepreneur at heart, Chuck built several local businesses in Gig Harbor, including Harbor Mobil and Quick Shop, Harbor Rental Center and Marine Prop Repair.

Chuck was quietly confident, always leading with kindness rather than ego. He was a man comfortable in his own skin, known for his steady presence, generous spirit, and deep loyalty to those he loved. Above all, he will be remembered for his devotion to family and friends.

Chuck is survived by his life partner, JoAnne Aitken; his sister, Sally Goodman (Roland); his son, Kurt Carlson (Michaela); his daughter, Kirsten Carlson (Christopher); and his granddaughters, Erika Artymiak (Kenneth) and Zoe Allen.

His life was one well lived-marked by integrity, adventure, and enduring relationships-and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A celebration of Chuck's life will be held at a later date.

Donations in Chuck's memory may be made to Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH https://www.ghpfish.org/donate-money , Agnus Dei Lutheran Church in Gig Harbor https://www.agnusdeilutheran.org/pages/give or St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Sun Valley https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML58DPQRERGYC/checkout/Y2SINHUCJOXIDFSIHYXWPDFO