Robert "Bob" Carlson

1933 - 2024

Robert "Bob" Carlson

RAPID CITY - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Dale Carlson, 90, of Rapid City, SD. He passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024, in Colorado Springs, CO, where he had recently moved to be closer to his daughter, Trudy.

Bob was born on December 15, 1933, in Steele, ND to Carl T. and Jennie Carlson. He was the youngest of four children. He lived in Phillip, SD during Junior High and made life-long relationships. He graduated from Washington High School in Sioux Falls, SD and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture at South Dakota State University.

Bob met his wife at a mutual friend's wedding and the rest was history. In June 1956, Bob married his beloved wife Lois, and they shared over 60 wonderful years together.

Bob served as a pilot from June 1956 through November 1958 in the United States Air Force. After his military service, he worked for Chevron Chemical Company (Ortho Division).

He was a dedicated husband, father, grandpa, uncle, and brother, leaving behind cherished memories with his family and friends. Bob lived a long and fulfilling life. He had a great sense of humor and brought joy and laughter to those around him.

Bob enjoyed various activities including camping, hunting, fishing, skiing, gardening, and traveling. He was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and a skilled fly fisherman who cherished his time in the streams of the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. Bob was also a Master Gardener with a wealth of knowledge about plants and trees.

He and his wife Lois had the opportunity to travel the United States, Canada and abroad visiting with relatives and friends along the way. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and family members.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Trudy Tool of CO; son, Bruce (Michelle) Carlson of GA; four grandchildren: Joshua Tool and Derek Tool of CA, Amanda Ronchetti (Luke) of TN and Sophie Carlson of AZ; sister, Dorothy Oehrle of CT; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lois, his parents, sister, Ruthelma, and brother, Don.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid City, SD, on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will take place on Monday, July 22, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at the Black Hills National Cemetery with Military Honors. www.vlm.cem.va.gov