Dale Carlson

Dale Carlson, age 75, of Pillager, passed away Monday, September 7, 2009 in International Falls.

Funeral service for Dale will be Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 1:00 PM at the First Lutheran Church of Pillager. Family and friends are invited to visit one hour prior to the service at the church. Visitation will be Friday, September 11th at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples from 5  7 PM.

Dale was married to Barbara Allen June 16, 1956, in Pillager, MN. He worked at the creamery in Pillager after marriage and became manager. In 1973, he moved to their farm in Pillager and served Sylvan Township for 17 years. He then went to work for Burlington Northern Railroad until his retirement. Dale loved the farm and raised goats, llamas, dogs, and his pride and joy were his purebred Angus cattle. Driving his tractor, making hay and always helping the neighbors were favorite past-times along with gathering mushrooms, fishing and especially bear hunting on his land near International Falls, MN. His 3 dachshund dogs were his constant companions. Dales daughters always had his help in selecting their vehicles.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Clara (Lucas) Carlson; daughter, Donette; brother, George Carlson II; and brother-in-law, Albert Pietz. Dale is survived by his wife of 53 years, Barbara (Allen); daughters, Suzette Carlson and Dena Carlson of Pillager, MN, son, Donald ButchCarlson of Pillager, 4 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; sisters, Rose Marie Pietz of Pillager, Marion Mertens (Dave) of Wadena, and Carol Mertens (Art Farber) of Staples; brothers, Dennis (Jean) of South Haven, Joe (Linda) of Motley, and Jim (Mary) of Staples; sister-in-law, Dee Carlson of Motley; and many nieces, nephews, along with many treasured friendships. Special niece, Cindy Hedquist. Special friend, Robert Mudgett, Dales right hand man, and Dales co-pilot, Buster.

Arrangements are with the Brenny Funeral Chapel of Staples.