Rollin D. Carlson

ROLLIN D. “Rolly” CARLSON February 9, 1948 – July 29, 2017                   Rollin D. “Rolly” Carlson, age 69 of Park Rapids, MN, formerly of Sartell and Good Thunder, MN, peacefully; but, unexpectedly passed away at his home near Park Rapids on Saturday, July 29, 2017.                 Rolly was born on February 9, 1948 in Mankato, MN to Claude and Evelyn (Pasbrig) Carlson.  It was in Good Thunder, MN that he attended public school where he enjoyed participating in sports.  He graduated from the Good Thunder High School with the Class of 1965.  As a young man, Rolly worked in a variety of jobs before finding his niche in computer programming.  On August 9, 1969, Rolly was united in marriage to Pauline Louise Karstedt.  They were blessed with a daughter, Tennille and a son, Troy.  Rolly worked for 3-M for a number of years in New Ulm, MN.  In the late 1970’s, Rolly moved with his family to the St. Cloud, MN area where he began working for the Fingerhut Corporation as a computer programmer and manager in a brilliant career that spanned over 20 years.  His success allowed him to retire early at the age of 50 when he fulfilled a life long dream of designing and constructing a log home for his family on beautiful Blue Lake north of Park Rapids.  In 2002, Rolly’s wife tragically died from injuries she sustained in an automobile accident.  Rolly continued spending his summers at his lake home; but spent his winters in Arizona for several years until discovering the Florida Keys where he purchased a home and has spent his winters ever since.  Rolly was an avid sportsman who enjoyed deep sea fishing and catching stone crabs in Florida.  In Minnesota he enjoyed fishing, hunting especially deer, bear or various birds.  He went on bigger adventures in search of mountain lions and elk in the Rocky Mountains.  Above all, Rolly devoted his life to his family who he loved with all his heart.                 Rolly will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Tennille (Brad Brecht) Carlson of Nowthen, MN and son, Troy Carlson of Minneapolis; his precious granddaughter, Breahna Carlson; his brother, Terry (Fran) Carlson of Outing, MN as well as several nieces and nephews.                 He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Pauline.                 Memorial services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, August 10, 2017 at the Celebration Lutheran Church in Sartell, MN with the Rev. Jeff Sackett officiating.  Visitation will be held from 9 AM until the start of the service at the church on Thursday.  Interment will be made in the Sartell City Cemetery.  To leave on line condolences or to view the video tribute please visit www.jonespearson.com.  In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to your favorite outdoor organization.