Robert Carlson

Robert John Carlson passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 18, 2011 at Chris Jensen Health and Rehabilitation Center in Duluth.

He was born on October 1, 1926 to Carl L. and Evelina (Sjolund) Carlson in Two Harbors, the fifth of six children. Until the age of three, Robert was a happy, healthy, and bright little boy. He spoke full sentences by age 2 and sang songs by age 3. A debilitating illness changed his life forever, but he always worked very hard at whatever task he had to perform. He attended Minnehaha School in Two Harbors and then helped his parents tend the family farm, as well as working as a laborer on the DM&IR Railroad for a short time during World War II.

After his parents passed away, he lived in a number of group homes in the Duluth area. He adapted well to city living, as opposed to being a country boy, and soon mastered the city bus system. At one of the group homes he met Tom Miller, who became his best friend. Bob and Tom loved to go shopping, taking the bus to the mall, and one of their favorite places was Best Buy. Bob really loved his western heroes; Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, the Lone Ranger, and the music they sang. He loved to hear one of his caregivers play the guitar and he loved the harmonica. All music brought him joy.

Bob's family wishes to thank all of his group home caregivers, especially his last home at Innovative Living. Our special thanks go to dear Tom Miller, who brought joy, laughter, and fun into his life as only a best friend can do. Also a special thanks to the employees and management at Best Buy for their caring and special attention to Tom and Bob. Thanks also to his guardian, Lynn; his case managers, especially Mark Johnson; Chris Jensen Home; and St. Luke's Hospice for making his last days as comfortable as possible.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Ruth Shubert and Mae Montague; and brothers Bertil and Richard Carlson.

He is survived by his sister Patricia (Harlan) Olson; sister-in-law Audrey Carlson; nieces Kathy (Roger) Saamanen, Joan Gelineau, Carol (Allen) Heil, and Julie (Rocky) Stewart; nephews Stephen (Carol) and Gary (Leslee) Carlson, Mark (Kay) Shubert, Tim (Tammy), Charles, Curtis, Kirk (Shelley), and Lance (Melanie) Olson; and many great-nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 1 PM until the 2 PM Service on Friday, August 26, 2011 at the United Church of Two Harbors, 531 3rd Ave. Memorials preferred to the Lake County Development Achievement Center, Knife River.