Kent Edward Carlson

Kent Edward Carlson passed away peacefully on his 84th birthday, September 11, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. He was born September 11, 1941, in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Kenneth Malcom Carlson and Lael Stolworthy Carlson, he was the oldest of five children. Kent grew up farming alongside his father and brothers, raising wheat and potatoes, and developing the strong work ethic that defined his life. He had a simple way of finding joy in everyday moments, roasting hot dogs by the fire, offering life lessons and advice, purchasing his dollar menu burger at McDonald’s, and sharing his unique sense of humor.

Kent graduated from Shelley High School in 1959, then attended Utah State University in Logan, Utah where he received a Bachelor of Science in Business Finance in 1964.

On July 12th, 1969, Kent married the love of his life, Carolee Cook, and was later sealed for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls Temple on October 19th, 1990. Together, they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and family. They raised four children: Cheri Lee (Bart) Wattenbarger, Kimberly Kae (Brett) Westergard, Christopher Kent (Desiree) Carlson, and Stacey Kay (Robert) Hall. Kent’s greatest joy was his family, and he enjoyed every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Kent served in the Army National Guard. He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club, Planning and Zoning, and the North Bigham Soil Conservation Board. Recently, he was honored to serve as Grand Marshall for Shelley Spud Day.

Kent loved the outdoors and the farming life, but his true legacy lives in the lessons he passed on to those who knew him. He taught his family to expect greatness from themselves and others, to look for a good bargain, to find the good in people, and to forgive easily. He modeled optimism, generosity, and a willingness to take care of others—even in his final days.

In the last hours of his life, Kent gave his family a priceless gift: he held on to celebrate his 84th birthday. Surrounded by loved ones, he ate cake, listened as they sang “Happy Birthday”, and expressed his love for each of them. Just minutes before the day ended, Kent slipped peacefully into heaven, leaving behind a family determined to carry forward his light, his kindness, and his unwavering faith.

Kent is preceded in death by his parents and other cherished family members who welcomed him home. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carolee; his four children and their spouses; and a large and loving posterity.

A funeral service celebrating Kent’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 18th at the Shelley Third Ward Chapel, 513 South Park Avenue. The family will receive friends and family Wednesday evening from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at Nalder Funeral Home, 110 West Oak Street, Shelley. Then, Thursday morning from 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. at the church. Buriel will be held at the Shelley Hillcrest Cemetery with Military Rites.

Those who would like to participate in the funeral service remotely are invited to view the service on a live broadcast at the following link:

https://zoom.us/j/95474414334

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