Thomas Richard Carlson

Thomas R. Carlson, 77, of La Porte, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 1, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Thomas was the son of Elmer and Mary Jane (O'Grady) Carlson. He grew up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and spent much of his life enjoying fishing, hunting, camping, and swimming. He also found joy in watching classic westerns and traveling whenever he could.

Thomas proudly served in the United States Navy for four years, where he

worked on ship boiler systems. After his service, he built a long and successful career in the foundry industry, serving as a Supervisor at Weil McLain and later at Dalton/Newman Foundry. He was also an active member of the American Legion, beginning at Post #169 in New Buffalo before transferring to Post #69 in Whitehall, Michigan.

Thomas is survived by his four children: Dawn (Mark) Bergeren, Valerie (Daniel) Wood, Matthew (Carmen) Carlson, and Scott (Tina) Zygmuntowski; his sister, Theresa Beck; and his twelve grandchildren: Jackson, Makena, Kaylee, Toree, Oaklee, Zachary, Gabriel, Benjamin, Colin, Bode, Dominick, and Chloe.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer H. Carlson; his mother, Mary Jane (O'Grady) Carlson; his brother, James Carlson; and his brother in law, Donald Beck.

Cremation will take place. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., (219) 362-3100 is caring for the arrangements. A private celebration of life will be held later.

Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com