June 27, 1939 - October 30, 2024
Richard "Dick" Carlson, aged 85 of Richfield, MN passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024. Dick was born on June 27th, 1939 in Aitkin, MN, the youngest child of Bill & Helen Carlson. He spent his childhood in Palisade, MN on his family's farm, and graduated from Aitkin High School. He met his next-door neighbor, Mary (Ketcham) and they wed on September 29th, 1962 at Bethel Lutheran Church. He then enlisted in the National Guard and had a lot of fun "playing army". Dick and Mary moved to Richfield, MN and welcomed three children together, Deborah (1965), Steven (1967), and Greg (1969).
Dick worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator (even on the pipelines in Alaska) at a variety of different companies (including his own, DC Excavating), but on the side he was a Jack of all trades and thoroughly enjoyed helping out a friend (of which he had many) in need. When he wasn't on the job, he spent his time adventuring with his boy scouts, hunting, fishing (especially in Canada), watching football, dancing, and driving his snowmobiles, ATVs, and even riding lawnmowers as fast as he could. He also had a knack for collecting! Perhaps his greatest joy was meeting his five rowdy grandchildren and teaching them everything he knew.
While Dick faced quite a few major health issues in his lifetime, he never gave up and brought his family and friends many years of love and laughter. He will be missed more than he knows! He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill & Helen Carlson; his sister, Joyce Carlson and his brother, Gene Carlson. He is survived by his wife, Mary Carlson; brother, Don (Ginny) Carlson; half-brother, Jonathan (Sandy) Edwards; daughter, Deb (Greg) Elsner; sons, Steve (Gretchen) Carlson and Greg (Ame) Carlson; grandchildren, Cody Logeland, Molly (Jesse) Von Wald, Quinn Carlson, Cole Carlson, Ellee Carlson and Eric Elsner; great-grandson, Cade Von Wald (with a second on the way), and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and family friends.
A Memorial Gathering will take place on the evening of Thursday, November 14th, at Morris Nilsen Funeral Home in Richfield, MN from 5:30-7:30PM. A Burial Service will take place on the morning of Saturday, November 16th at 11AM in Pine Grove Cemetery in Palisade, MN followed by a Celebration of Life Luncheon at 12:30PM at Rustic Trail in Palisade, MN.
Gathering
Thursday, November 14, 2024
5:30-7:30 PM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Graveside Service
Saturday, November 16, 2024
11:00 AM
Pine Grove Cemetery
Palisade, MN
I love you, papa! ❤️
Dick was a delightful man who always brought a smile into your life whenever you met. I loved to run into him, usually in a diner in Palisade, and always enjoyed our conversations. I’m so sorry to hear of his death. He will definitely be missed by many. Sincere condolences to his family and his multitude of friends.
I’m sure Mike was there to meet “Cousin Dick” with a cold beer.
Mary and family. I am so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. His sense of humor, his forever smile, and his friendship will be missed by all. God bless you all.
Dick was a real legend around Palisade. He will be greatly missed, especially his hardy laughter. Our sympathy to Mary and the whole family.
I met Dick when we moved to Pakisade one of the nicest and he would do anything for you. He will be missed by family and friends.
Uncle Dick was my favorite Uncle. Our visits were filled with laughter, all night talks, leg slapping Memories and true Wisdom we will cherish beyond.
Uncle Dick is now our Brightest star that will shine upon us. Our tears will dry as time heals us.
Much Love, So sorry for your loss.
He is greatly missed.
Words cannot express the feeling of losing my favorite Cousin, Mentor, Boss, and great friend. Dick, Mary and the family were always there for our family my entire life. I truly loved him, and he will be forever missed. Rest in peace Dickie.
I grew up taking summer family trips from Idaho to Minnesota to visit Uncle Dick and Aunt Mary. Great memories going to the farm to put the fishing boat on the pond, ride 3 wheelers around the property, set off fireworks, and get bites from the famous Minnesota state bird. I will miss Uncle Dick for his booming laughter, his strong handshake and hugs, and his ever present wiliness to get all the toys out to play.
Dear Deb and Family,
I remember your father as a kind, gentle, and compassionate man who loved you all and was so proud of his family – the old McDonald’s crew sure gave him a lot to chuckle about (and maybe a few grey hairs). Please accept my sincerest condolences on his passing – take care and God bless. Leslie Morgan Emery
We just learned of Dicks passing, Tom piper and I are so sorry, he was such a great guy, his laughter was the best and always brought joy, prayers and hugs to the family