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John Carlson Obituary
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Services will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at Keystone Church (5525 NE Delaware Avenue, Ankeny, IA 50021). Visitation will be held from 1:30 - 2:30 PM with the funeral service to follow at 3:00 PM.
John was born on December 11, 1941, in Danville, Illinois, to Bror and Lucille Carlson. He spent his early years in Cairo, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. He graduated from Coe College in 1965, where he met his wife, Carol Van Auken. They married on September 7, 1963, and shared nearly 61 wonderful years together. John later earned a master's degree from the University of Iowa.
John and Carol were blessed with two children, Carrie (Cameron) Fuller and Erik (Erin) Carlson, who, along with their families, brought great joy to John's life. He is survived by his wife, Carol, his children, and his cherished grandchildren: Chase (Whitney) Fuller, Cailyn (Hayden) Shelton, Logan (fiancée Grace Meter) Carlson, Caleb Carlson, and Jonah Carlson.
Beyond his love for his family, John was passionate about many things, including his active involvement with Toastmasters International and his enthusiasm for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He had a deep appreciation for music, enjoyed attending concerts, and found joy in his pets. John's hobbies were varied and included reading, running, and gardening. He was also a devoted congregant and contributed significantly to both New London Christian Church and Community Christian Church in Muscatine, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to Keystone Church and/or the Kirkendall Public Library both located in Ankeny, Iowa.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Ron and Pam Goodson
September 1, 2024
John welcomed all into his circle of friends and made everyone feel important. He could always find good in all situations.
He was a light hearted, kind, loving , gentle family man. John had love in his heart for all and was a good Christian and will be greatly missed.
Carol, Carrie and Erik, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ron and Pam Goodson
Dick Wulf
August 29, 2024
Now it is a lesser world as my old coffee buddy, the source of so much practical advice, good humor, and sound political insight has passed. John was a "better" man as he left every one he met a little better for the encounter. He could be in the moment, cranky and cantankerous, but he was always quick to be generous and forgiving. I believe he lived his religion. Bless you John and bless Carol and the entire Carlson clan at this most difficult time.
Ruth and I send our deepest sympathy.
I will miss him very much.
Dick and Ruth Wulf
Gail and Hugh Carroll
August 27, 2024
When John and Carol lived in Orlando, we were neighbors on Sepalwood Court; it was a wonderful neighborhood, full of young, energetic families. We maintained close ties when the Carlson family returned to Iowa, and one of the many, many things we enjoyed chatting about on phone calls was our mutual love of biking. John frequently encouraged us to come to Iowa and join his group that biked across Iowa in the summer. A lifelong resident of flat (very flat) Florida, I questioned my ability to keep up with his group sailing up and down the hills of Iowa. I´m remembering tonight how unfailingly enthusiastic and encouraging John was, and I´m picturing him in my mind cycling through lush, beautiful farmland on a sunny day. We love you, John.
Gail and Hugh Carroll
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