Dr William Clayton Carlson

Dr. William Clayton Carlson, 76, of Indian Wells, CA, passed away Sunday morning, November 25, 2007. Bill was a loving and doting husband to Marilynn for 52 years, a loving father of three, and a proud grandfather of 8. Bill was always there to give a helping hand to projects, offer advice and support for his family, friends and relatives, and was always quick to recognize needs of others and do for others what a caring honest person should do for their fellow man. Dr. Carlson had a strong sense of what was right for his family and others in his community. He did what he could to help make the world for his loved ones and friends a better place. Dr. Carlson was a dedicated dentist practicing in Granada Hills, CA for 32 years, attaining his degree of DDS from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of San Francisco (University of the Pacific) in 1959. He was recognized and awarded numerous times for his adherence to a strict code of ethics and professionalism in his field of dentistry. His patients would always see Bill, on time, with his warm and caring smile ready to make them feel and look better while maintaining the patient's sense of safety and dignity, his number one rule. Doctor Bill was very active professionally with the Southern California Dental Society, chapter president of the San Fernando Valley Dental Society , a Life Member of Kiwanis International and chapter president; active member of Los Angeles Rod and Reel Club, Marrakesh Country Club and Palm Desert Presbyterian Community Church. He was also dedicated to numerous philanthropies and gave generously to those that needed his help. Bill was a man of God with a passion to become closer and more knowledgeable of his maker through his network of bible studies and the teachings he received at Palm Desert Presbyterian Community Church. With his fabulous sense of humor and his loving wife, Marilynn at his side, together were avid golfers, skiers, sailors, fishermen, and world travelers. Bill's ingenuity, thoughtfulness, and willingness to make things happen with a little good humor to ease the efforts made him a joy to be with. His friends will remember him as the Can-Do-Man due to his never ending reservoir of energy. It is so hard to believe that Bill is not here with us now but he would tell you he is in a much better place. A keystone in his family and community in which he lived and served, he will be sorely missed by loving family and friends. Services will be held at the Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church on December 1, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. If desired and in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 10660, 47518 Van Buren Street, Indio, CA, 92202.