Rev. Gary M. Carlson

Born to Marvin and Hildur (Nelson) Carlson, Gary spent his childhood in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. He and his sister Susan learned early the value of family (particularly a Swedish one!) with their grandparents living in the second-floor apartment of their home, looking after their mother, assisting their father, and traveling often to Chicago to be part of Nelson and Carlson family celebrations. After graduating high school in 1964, he served in the United States Air Force, leaving his service early to care for his aging parents—a testament to the deep family devotion that would define his life.

Gary met the love of his life, Jean Stayer, when they both volunteered at a children's home. They married in October 1972 and welcomed four children, raising them with unwavering love and dedication. Gary was a coach for his children's sports teams, a steady presence at every school event and performance, and later traveled near and far to witness the important milestones in his grandchildren's lives.

His hands were rarely idle. Gary found joy in working on cars, tackling mechanical projects, reading, and playing cards. He had strong opinions about how everyday household chores should be done—practices his children lovingly carry forward. But what he treasured most was time spent with Jean, their children, their spouses, and his beloved grandchildren.

Gary's faith was central to his life, and he served with distinction at First United Methodist Church (UMC) in Ravenna, Ohio; Community UMC in Union City, Ohio; Nelsonville First UMC and Buchtel UMC in Athens County, Ohio; and West Independence UMC in West Independence, Ohio. Those who knew him through these communities remember his warm smile, his generous hugs, his deep care for others, and his unfailing presence during times of both joy and sorrow. He had a gift for encouraging others to ponder, and he never missed an opportunity to tell someone how proud he was of them.

Gary is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean (Stayer) Carlson; his four children, Gretchen Carlson Natter (Rob), Jeremy Carlson, Adam Carlson, and Emily Carpenter (Matt); his grandchildren, Signe, Lily, Ella, Grace (Joseph), Grady, Chad, Olivia, and Sadie; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Chad Carlson; his parents, Hildur and Marvin Carlson; and his sister, Susan Biro.

Gary's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, his steadfast love, and his faithful service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

We welcome all to participate in celebrating Gary's life. Friends and family will be received Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home, 703 E. Main St., Ravenna, OH 44266. A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Church in Aurora, 146 S Chillicothe Rd, Aurora, OH 44202, with a time of fellowship to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Gary’s family invites you to donate in his memory to hospice services in your community or a charity you hold close to your heart.