Passed away on Friday, September 7, 2018 at Bronson Methodist Hospital, age 86. Rick was born in Malmo, MN on May 25, 1932, the son of the late Herbert Daniel Carlson and Madge Strong Carlson. He worked for Kalamazoo Public Schools, retiring after 33 years of service. Following retirement, he worked for Builders Square for seven years. He was a member of St. Andrew Community Church. He was also a member of the Kalamazoo Association of Retired School Personnel, 4H, Kalamazoo County Agricultural Society and American Legion Post #36. Rick was united in marriage with Lois Tamplin Carlson on August 20, 1955. Together they raised a wonderful family and recently celebrated their sixty-third wedding anniversary. Rick is survived by Lois; their three children, Jeff Carlson, Jill Carlson and Jean (Ben) Sawin; two granddaughters, Gracie and Riley Sawin; one brother, Carl "Merle" Carlson; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother, Herb Carlson and his wife, Connie Carlson; and Merle's wife, Beverly Carlson. Friends may visit with the family from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 11, 2018 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 East Centre Ave., Portage, MI 49002. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at the funeral chapel, officiated by Rev. James Dyke. Rick loved to wear his bib overalls and his final wish is that those in attendance come casually dressed in comfortable clothing, such as blue jeans and sweat shirts. Interment will follow the service in Maple Grove Cemetery in Comstock Twp. Memorial contributions may be given to Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI, The American Cancer Society or St. Andrew Community Church.

Published by the courtesy of Langeland FH Sept 11, 2018