Ronald Alan Carlson

Ronald Alan Carlson (Ron) 75, passed away after a long and brave struggle with his health. Ron was born in Seattle, Washington on May 31st 1946 to Carl Harry Carlson and Doris Eleanor Carlson. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Richard Carlson.

Ron’s life took him to many places where he embarked on many adventures. Ron served his country in the Vietnam War as a medic in the U.S. Army. While serving, he earned a Silver Star for gallantry in action in South Vietnam. During the conflict, Ron treated wounded men and moved them to safety, while being wounded himself. Due to his injury during combat, he was also awarded a Purple Heart.

After returning to Washington state, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Washington. He then went on to receive a master's degree at the University of Oregon. Ron met Colleen while he was at the University of Washington. They married in 1973 and had two children, Christopher and Kimberly Carlson, and later divorced.

His professional career took him to various states such as Idaho, West Virginia, and Virginia as an economist for the federal government. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, and camping with his family and close friends. Ron’s love of the outdoors continues on with his children and his grandchildren to this day.

When he moved back to Washington, Ron volunteered regularly at PAWS to help with wildlife rehabilitation and became involved with veteran’s affairs. After volunteering with veteran's affairs, he became a care-giver and took care of the elderly. Ron led a life of service till the end.

Ron is survived by his children, Christopher and Kimberly Carlson and his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Aidyn, and Abigail. The family is holding a private burial to celebrate Ron’s life. The family would like to thank Monique Ojeda and the Villas at Green Valley Assisted Living for the amazing care he received from the staff over the past year and Jim Bechtel for being a wonderful family friend through both good and hard times. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the ASPCA in Ron’s name.