Carlson, Gary Harlan (1944-2018)

CARLSON, FISHER, ECKHART, CRAWFORD, KEASEY

Posted By: Debbie Greenfield (email)
Date: 12/12/2020 at 10:51:58

Story City Herald, Story City, Iowa Website
7 May 2018

Gary Carlson, age 73, of Jewell, died at his home on April 30, 2018. A Memorial Service will be Saturday, May 26, at 2 p.m., at Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel in Boone, followed by interment at South Marion Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 1 p.m. until the start of service at the Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel.

Gary Harlan Carlson, was born in Ames, Iowa, on Nov. 27, 1944, the son of Glenn and Alice (Fisher) Carlson. He graduated from South Hamilton High School in Jewell in 1964. On July 9, 1976, Gary married Louise Eckhart at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Boone.

In his younger years, Gary worked alongside his dad on the family farm. He also traveled the country working for Winnebago in Forest City as a motor home delivery driver. Gary worked at Iowa State University as a member of custodial staff for 24 years until his retirement in 2004.

He had a great love for fixing vehicles and spent time collecting and salvaging machines of all types. Gary designed a welding truck that he used for years in the pits of the Boone Speedway assisting racers with their cars. For many Christmas seasons, he dressed in a special red suit and became a convincing Santa to area children. He took delight in keeping the magic of Christmas alive. Gary was a resourceful man with a big heart and enjoyed helping people.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Neil Carlson; sister, Marilyn and her husband, Clyde Crawford; father-in-law, Emery Eckhart; a niece, Susan Keasey. Gary is survived by his wife, Louise Carlson of Jewell; brother, Alan Carlson and his wife, Linda of Waukee; mother-in-law, June Eckhart of Boone; brother-in-law, Larry Eckhart of Boone; sister-in-law, Lois Carlson of Bentonville, Ark.; several nieces and nephews.

In memory of Gary, memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences at schroedermemorialchapel.com. Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall in Boone is in charge of arrangements.