Howard Francis Carlstrom Jr.

On Monday, January 12, 2026, we said goodbye to a remarkable man — Howard Francis Carlstrom, Jr. A loving partner, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, Marine, and friend. He was 80 years old, and he lived those 80 years with strength, dedication, and American pride.

Howard was born in 1945 in Attleboro, Massachusetts, to Howard Francis Sr. and Nancy Ann Carlstrom. He grew up alongside his brothers, Ralph and Ron, building the foundation of loyalty and family values that would guide him for the rest of his life.

One of the greatest honors of his life was serving his country in the United States Marine Corps. He carried that pride with him always. Being a Marine wasn’t just something he did — it was part of who he was. His service shaped his character: disciplined, dependable, strong, and steady. He loved his country deeply, and we are forever grateful for his honorable service.

After returning home, Howard built a long and respected career as a general superintendent, working hard until his retirement in 2010. He believed in showing up, doing the job right, and providing for his family. His work ethic was unwavering, and he led by example — not with loud words, but with consistent action.

But beyond his work and service, what many of us will remember most are the simple joys he loved so much. Howard loved fishing — the quiet patience of it, the peace of being near the water. He loved NASCAR, enjoying the thrill and competition of the race. And he was a loyal Dodger baseball fan, celebrating the victories and enduring the losses with that same steady dedication he brought to everything else in his life.

Most of all, Howard loved his family. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His strength gave us security. His presence gave us comfort. His love, though sometimes shown quietly, was constant and real. He built a legacy not just in the work he did, but in the family, he raised and the values he passed down.

Today we grieve because we loved him deeply. We will miss his voice, his stories, his steady nature, and even the simple comfort of knowing he was there. But we also celebrate a life well lived — a life of service, hard work, loyalty, and love.

Rest in peace, Howard.

We love you.

We will miss you.

And we will honor your memory every single day.