Wilma J. Carlson

Wilma Jean Carlson, 90, of Harvard, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 18th, 2026. Born on March 9th, 1936, in Belvidere, Illinois, she was the daughter of Erwin and Imogene (Fredrickson) Wascher. 

Wilma's life was deeply rooted in her faith. As a young woman she dedicated her life to Jesus Christ and remained steadfast in her devotion throughout her years. Her unwavering commitment to her faith shaped every aspect of her life and inspired those around her. She created a loving and warm home environment where the love of Christ was shared with her family. 

After marrying Gordon L. Carlson on November 5, 1954, Wilma became an integral part of managing their dairy farms in Belvidere and Harvard. Together, they worked tirelessly to build a life centered on hard work, family values and faith. 

Wilma was a beloved mother to her daughters, Jodell Carlson, Sharon, WI, and Darla (Lem) Seaward, Goosebay, Labrador, Canada. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Amy Carlson, Timothy Carlson, Bethany (Don) Shinn, Nathan Seaward (Jessica), Alicia Seaward (Roy), Andrea (Mark) Goodyear, and Jenny Seaward. She was a proud great- grandmother to Dominick (Amanda) Jensen, Noah Jensen (Gina), Violet Jackman, William Jackman, Olivia Goodyear, and Emily Goodyear, and was delighted to be a great-great- grandmother to Isabella, Neiko and Grace. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gordon; and her sister, Anita Newell. Despite these losses, Wilma's enduring faith remained a source of comfort and strength. Wilma's memory will be treasured by all who were fortunate to know her. May the love she shared continue to inspire those she leaves behind. 

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire team at Harvard Care Center for the compassionate care they provided to our mom over the last four years. Knowing she was in such caring and capable hands brought us comfort and peace of mind every day.

Memorial visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 10:00AM until 11:00AM at Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home, 107 W. Sumner St., Harvard, IL 60033. Memorial service will follow at 11:00AM. Inurnment will take place at Garden Prairie Cemetery immediately following services. 

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