Gary Carlson

Gary Carlson, 70, of Two Harbors, died Sunday July 17, 2022 at Lake View Memorial Hospital.

Gary was born August 8, 1951 to Bertil and Audrey (Sandwick) Carlson in Two Harbors.  He grew up in Knife River, and after graduating from Two Harbors High School in 1969 he attended college and worked as a vet tech in Willmar.  Returning to Two Harbors, Gary went to work for the DM&IR Railroad, first as a conductor, retiring as an engineer in 2011 after nearly 40 years.

Gary was a member of the Loyal Order Of Moose, Masonic Lodge, AAD Temple of the Shrine, and the Scottish Rite.

An avid sportsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his children, spending time with his grandchildren, watching football with his Knife River buddies, softball, and the Minnesota Twins.

Gary was preceded in death by his father; a sister,  Carol “Cookie” Heil; in-laws, Pauline Martin and Charlene and Vernon Hentz.

He is survived by his mother, Audrey Carlson; wife of 44 years, Leslee; his children, Veronica (Mike) Persons, Jeff (Jessica) Carlson, and Mark Carlson; grandchildren, Orion, Trent, Olivia, and Carter; a brother, Steve (Carol) Carlson; a sister, Julie (Earl) Stewart; in-laws, Allen Heil, Dennis Martin, Mike (Jaren) Churness, Robin (Greg) Hanson, and Mitch (Nancy) Churness; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held at 1 PM, Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Knife River Rec Center and Ball Field.