Douglas Carlson

Douglas (Doug) Carlson was born 7 Jan 1930 in Jamestown, ND to Esther Gaier and Samuel Carlson and passed away on Mon, July 16, 2018. Doug spent his early years with his maternal grandparents, Emil and Carolina Gaier and numerous aunts and uncles.

Doug began his education in 1936 in a one room country school in Stutsman County, ND. The harsh winters and dust bowl summers remained etched in his mind. He finished his elementary education and high school studies in Medina, ND. After high school, he spent two years at Jamestown College as a student-athlete.

In 1949, Doug joined the Army and spent four years first as a paratrooper with the 504 th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82 nd Airborne Division, and later as an Army Ranger. He was one of the original 1000 Airborne Rangers in the Army and served in Korea where he earned a Combat Infantry Badge.

After being discharged from the Army, Doug became a serious student and earned a BSC in chemistry from the University of North Dakota in 1955 and a MSC and Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Delaware in 1959. He was appointed a research fellow at Princeton University and completed his formal education in 1961.

In 1954, while at UND, Doug married Mary Jo Barrett. In addition to his wife, Doug is survived by his sons, David (Beth) and Peter and two grandchildren, Alex and Katie. Doug considered himself first and foremost a father and husband. His recognition as a scientist was secondary.

Doug worked as a scientist at several companies, including 3M, DuPont, and Hydril. Doug holds about 15 patents, has published numerous technical papers and is held in high regard by his fellow scientists. After retirement, he continued working as a scientific consultant in the elastomer industry.

At Doug's request, he will be cremated and there will be no funeral service. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorials be made to the DAV or charity of your choice.