Robert “Bob” Carlson, age 80, passed away on November 16, 2023 at Red Cedar Canyon Memory Care, in Hudson, WI. 

Bob was born in a Swedish hospital in Minneapolis, MN to Vernon and Celestine Carlson. He was a graduate of Stillwater High School. Robert “Bob” married the love of his life, Mary “Midge” Casperson on March 15, 1963 and celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this year, together they were blessed with four children. 

Bob worked at 3M for 40 years, starting in the mail room at the age of 18. They quickly realized how bright he was and put him through college courses in chemistry where he earned several 3M patents throughout his career as a chemist. He would bring home scratch and sniff stickers he created in the lab for the kids and iodine for their wounds. Bob was promoted to sales in 1982 and moved his family to Kingwood, Texas to open a new 3M branch in Houston. In 1986, they returned to Hudson where he was promoted to director. He traveled to South America, Asia and Europe where he made life long friends. After retiring, Bob and Midge spent much of their time at the Marina where Bob served as president. They enjoyed many days boating on the St. Croix with their family and friends. He also enjoyed lazy days at the house, golfing and woodworking. He had a gift for making custom furniture which many of his family members have pieces made by Bob. Together they spent more than 15 winters in Coco Beach, Costa Rica. He will always be remembered for his brilliant mind and his love of his family. 

He is survived by his wife Midge; children Shawn (Brenda) Carlson, Christopher (Suzi) Carlson, Karin (Todd) Schroeder, and Eric Carlson; grandchildren Kristen, Dillon, Jacob, Nathan, Hanna, and Lydia; siblings Judy (Jim) Widmyer, Sally (Greg) Bancroft, Steven (Sue) Carlson, Nancy (Andy Murphy) Carlson and Wendy (Larry) Dunn, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, November 27, 2023 at O’Connell Family Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10am to 11am with a time for sharing at 11am. 

We are eternally grateful to the caring staff at Red Cedar Canyon Memory Care for their love and support over the last year. Memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer Foundation.

Funeral Services entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson.