Donald D Carlson

Donald D. Carlson, 82, of South Beloit, passed away on Sunday, August 27th at home, surrounded by his loving family.  Don was born on December 4, 1940, in Harvard, IL to Edward and Dorothy (Schell) Carlson.   Don married the love of his life, Sandra Norwood on November 14, 1964. 

Don proudly served our country in the United States Air Force, and upon discharge, moved back to Harvard, 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.

Don and Sandy enjoyed life to the fullest.  Don 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 TV’s, 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 – law, Harold and Iris, LeRoy and Iva, and brother-in-law, Bill Wells.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 2nd from 10 am – 12 pm with the funeral ceremony at 12 pm at Saunders and McFarlin Funeral Home, 107 W. Sumner St., Harvard, IL 60033. 

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or your favorite charity in Donald’s name.

The family would like to thank OSF hospice for their compassionate care.

Call Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home for more info at 815-943-5400.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.