James Lloyd Carlson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 18th, 2025. Born in Pierre, South Dakota, Jim grew up in Pierre, SD and Bloomington, MN. He was the oldest of three children and set the tone early on as a natural leader.
A gifted multi-sport athlete, Jim’s dedication and drive earned him a football scholarship to North Dakota State University as quarterback. Jim proudly led the Bison to a national championship and a memorable Pecan Bowl victory. His time at NDSU shaped not only his athletic career but also his lifelong competitive spirit—a trait that carried through every chapter of his life. After graduating from NDSU, he attended and completed graduate school at Iowa State University majoring in Computer Science.
After college, Jim answered the call to serve his country as a proud veteran of the Vietnam War era. His courage, discipline, and unwavering sense of duty were hallmarks of his character, admired by all who knew him.
While in the military Jim met his wife, Victoria - a schoolteacher, through a mutual acquaintance. Following his military service, Jim and Victoria moved to California where Jim had accepted a job at Control Data. They had 3 sons over the course of 10 years. They eventually moved to Minnesota and raised their family. Jim found great joy in coaching volleyball, where his passion for the game and his ability to inspire others left a lasting impact on countless players. Whether on the court or in everyday life, he was a mentor who demanded the best but always led with heart.
Outside of sports, Jim was a man of many passions. His family was always a priority to him. He had a deep love for music, often filling his home with the sounds of his favorite songs. He and his wife, Vicki, shared a love for travel and new experiences, creating memories that spanned states, countries, and oceans. Jim’s sense of adventure was matched only by his sense of humor—his laughter could light up a room, and his quick wit brought joy to all around him.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Vicki; his three sons, Jeff (Kelley), Brian (Cindy), and David (Andrea); and his four cherished grandchildren, Olivia, Lucy, Cooper, and Chase; his sister, Barb (Mike) Magelky; stepbrother, Glenn (Tammy) Dean; stepsister Beverly Valentine, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Kathryn Carlson; stepmother, Diane Carlson, and his brother Jack Carlson.
He will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest—fiercely competitive, endlessly curious, deeply loving, and always ready with a joke or a smile.
Jim Carlson leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Memorial Service 2:00 pm Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Gearhart Funeral Home (11275 Foley Blvd. N.W., Coon Rapids)
Visitation 12:30 pm until time of service.
Reception 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Brick's Kitchen & Pub (10673 Baltimore St NE, Blaine, MN 55449)
