Robert Carlson

Robert Charles Carlson, 74, Ellendale, ND was born February 20, 1935, to Mildred Harriet Carlson, Thief River Falls, MN. He was in the class of 1953 at Lincoln High School, Thief River Falls. In 1954 Robert joined the United States Air Force as a Crypto Operator and in 1962 was part of the Berlin Crisis. On August 25, 1962, Robert married Virginia Ann Cross, Staples, MN and had two children. In 1965 he taught special education in West Fargo and Moorhead. In 1967, Robert graduated from Moorhead State College with a Masters of Science in special education. Robert and Virginia moved to Minot, ND where Robert was Director of Special Education. In 1970, they moved to Columbus, OH where he was Director of the Regional Resource Center for the Handicapped. In 1976 Virginia died after battling cancer. In 1980 Robert and his children moved to Wahpeton, ND where he was Director of South Valley-Multi District Special Education Board. From 1983 to 2003 Robert was Director of Social Services for Dickey County. Robert was director of Dickey, LaMoure, Ransom and Sargent counties, helping with many accomplishments of the counties and his community. Robert was also part of Ellendale City Park Board and Ellendale City Council both for eight years. In 1987 Robert married Kathy (McFarland) Carlson and remained close until his death September 25, 2009, at Prince of Peace Care Center, Ellendale. Robert enjoyed reading and was a member of Presbyterian United Methodist Church, Ellendale, Masonic Lodge and American Legion. Robert is survived by one daughter: Lynne (David) Rogers, Canyon Country, CA; one son: David (Heather) Carlson, Fargo, ND; one brother Bruce (Anita) Johnson, Cottage Grove, MN; one sister: Patty (Brad) Teal, Surprise, AZ; four grandchildren; one great grandchild and special friend Kathy Carlson, Aberdeen, SD. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Virginia. Funeral: 1:30pm Thursday at Presbyterian United Methodist Church, Ellendale with Pastor Paul Henschen officiating. Visitation: 2-6pm Wednesday at Hoven Funeral Chapel and one hour prior to services at the church in Ellendale. Burial: Ellendale City Cemetery. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel.