Donald Carlson spent most of his adult life in law enforcement
Don served most of his career as a trooper patrolling the Illinois tollways.
Donald (Don) Carlson, 82, of South Beloit, proudly served our country in the United States Air Force. After his discharge, he moved back home to Harvard, Illinois, where he dedicated his time as a volunteer on the Harvard Rescue Squad. Don started his law enforcement career with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office as a dispatcher, and in 1974, he accepted a position as a trooper with the Illinois State Police. He served most of his career as a trooper patrolling the Illinois tollways.
He was born in Harvard, the son of Edward and Dorothy (Schell) Carlson on December 4, 1940.
He married Sandra Norwood, the love of his life, on November 14, 1964.
Don passed away at his home in South Beloit on Sunday, August 27, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.
Don and Sandy enjoyed life to the fullest. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, travelling, especially cruises, and helping other people. Don was a handyman and jack-of- all trades. He could often be found helping his family and friends; whether it be fixing their TVs, doing electrical work, working on lawnmowers, pouring cement, or acting as a chauffeur.
Don had a great sense of humor, even laughing at himself when umpiring the boy’s baseball game and calling a ball after the batter swung at a pitch and missed. Of his many joys in life, spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren was his greatest joy.
Don is survived by his loving wife, Sandra, sister Elsie, twin sister Dorothy, and brother John. He is also survived by his children Tina (Tim) Carlson, Donald (Lea) Carlson, Ronald (Karen) Carlson, grandchildren, Adam (Jessica) Gamlin, Malena (Ty) Gamlin, Noah (Alyssa) Carlson, Berkley (Coby) Carlson, Malin Pantaleo, Ronald (Lindsay) Carlson, Ryan Carlson, Ian (Sami) Carlson, Alexandrea (Ambrose) Charrier, and Reid (Mackenzy) Carlson, great – grandchildren, Peighton and Wyatt Carlson, Josephine and Kinsley Carlson, Oliver and Madelyn Carlson, and Bowen Carlson. He is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Dorothy, mother-in-law Jean Brown, father-in- law William Norwood, brothers and sisters in laws, Harold and Iris, LeRoy and Iva, and brother-in-law, Bill Wells.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, September 2,2023, at Saunders and McFarlin Funeral Home, 107 W. Sumner St., Harvard, IL 60033.
