Obituary

Donald L. Carlson, 94, of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Don was born on August 13, 1930 to Mauritz and Linnea Carlson in Rockford, IL. Don married JoAn O’Brist Hayes on November 26, 1971. He was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church throughout his life. Don retired from Barber Coleman and was a member of the IL National Guard during the Korean War, serving in Europe. He was a member of Cherry Valley Fire Protection District for over 50 years. Don served at various levels including Chief. He was a member of the Shriners, Masons, and American Legion. Don also served on the Winnebago County 911 Board and Cherry Valley Township as a trustee.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, JoAn; his parents; his brother, Robert; and his two sons, Donald Jr. and Roger. He is survived by his daughter, Terry Carlson; step-son, Douglas Hayes; step-daughter, Kim (Jeff) Ehrhart; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church, 925 5th Ave., Rockford with Rev. Dr. Michael Thomas. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church. To share a memory or condolence, please visit olsonfh.com