John Raymond Carlson

2026. A man of deep faith, relentless curiosity, and an entrepreneurial drive, John's life was defined by his devotion to his family and his church.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on July 3, 1940, to Raymond (“Ray”) and Evelyn (“Evie”) Carlson, John possessed a

natural intellect that led him to Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in

1962. At Purdue, he served as house manager for the Theta Tau professional engineering fraternity and represented his

peers in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Following college, a cross-country adventure with his good friend Ken Kovanda brought John to the sunny shores of California. John launched his career at Douglas Aircraft in Huntington Beach. He returned briefly to West Lafayette to complete a Master’s Degree in Industrial Administration at Purdue. Alongside his corporate career, John possessed a sharp business acumen and spent time building a legacy in real estate.

By 1970, John had established himself as a leader at McDonnell Douglas. More importantly, this era brought him

the love of his life, Cathleen (“Cathy”) Narasaki. John had a dry sense of humor - he loved to jest with his friends and

always had an insightful quip. His quick wit and sense of humor were among the qualities Cathy found appealing. The

couple exchanged vows in a quaint Santa Ana chapel on April 29, 1972. Over the years, they raised three wonderful

children: Kelly, David, and Steven. Today, his children carry on his legacy. Kelly raised a family of four and built a career as

a civil and environmental engineer; Steven embraced his entrepreneurial spirit and business intellect; and David is a

nationally accomplished water polo coach and esteemed teacher at Los Alamitos High School.

Above all, John was anchored by his Christian faith. He was a passionate student of Scripture and a gifted Bible

study teacher. John’s introduction to the Christian community was encouraged by his childhood friend Al. John and Cathy

started their faith journey at Garden Grove Church of God, and their faith grew as they became dedicated members of

Mid-Cities Baptist Church and they accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior under the guidance of Pastor W.R. Hann. John didn't just read the Word, he lived it. He hosted Tuesday night Bible studies in his home and regularly organized visits to

homebound parishioners, ensuring everyone felt the embrace of the church community. His love for Jesus Christ shone

brightly through his actions and lives on in the spiritual practices of his wife and children.

John possessed a vibrant, adventurous spirit. He loved water skiing, the quiet patience of fishing, and the freedom

of the open road. Early family vacations were spent at Bass Lake, making memories on the water. John was a lifelong

automotive enthusiast, drafting designs for sports cars during his college years and cherished his two green Jaguar

convertibles. John was an avid explorer, taking his family on cross-country road trips in their Lazy Daze motorhome to visit

national parks and many state capitals. Later in life, he and Cathy enjoyed a vacation home in Florence, Oregon, where he

took his grandchildren out tubing and to catch Dungeness crab. John also loved spending time with his friends fishing for salmon and playing games.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Evie, his brother, James and grandson Andrew.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Cathy Carlson; his children, Kelly (Mark) Carroll, David, and

Steven (Nikki); Grandchildren, Deven (Victoria), Emily, Nathan, and Jorden; Great-grandson, Lucas; Sister-in-Law Linda

Carlson; and many Nieces and Nephews.

John leaves behind a legacy of steadfast faith, quiet generosity, and unwavering love for his family.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.