Kenneth Neil Carlson

Kenneth N. Carlson was born during the Great Depression, on October 1, 1931, to Mr. Carl and Mrs. Iris F. Carlson. He was the middle child, having an elder sister, Norma, and a younger brother, Roger.

Despite the poverty-stricken world into which he was born, he was determined to learn as much as he could and see the world. And that he did.

After joining the Marine Corps, he was a codebreaker, working intelligence during the Korean War. His hard work received commendations from his superior officers. He studied overseas at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, and then the University of Munich in Germany on the G.I. Bill.

While there, he had an idea to go from Munich to Melbourne – and only a green beret took him up on the offer. He and his buddy traveled the world, having visited 38 countries on a motorcycle with a sidecar. His adventures would take him to six continents – a trip that took nearly three years and was written about in local papers. His final count of countries visited would top nearly 70 by the time he passed.

He later worked for the State Department, living first in Liberia, Africa, after marrying Betty Hoelscher in Washington, D.C. Then, his first child was born - Linda Louise, named after both of her grandmothers.

After being stationed in Lisbon and separating from his first wife, he ended up in Tokyo at the American Embassy there.

He met Katsuko Takemura, married her in Tokyo, and returned to the states to raise a family.

First born to the couple was Jeannette Anne, followed later by Karen Elaine and Wayne Kenneth.

During his life, he published a book of his travels, which became one of the best-selling books for people interested in being travel agents – a big deal back in the day.

He passed away peacefully after seeing all of his children in the fall of 2019.

Kenneth N. Carlson is survived by his wife of 53 years, Katsuko Carlson, his children, Linda, Jeannette, Karen and Wayne, in addition to six grandchildren, Konrad Anton, Brandon Zachary, Kaityln Paige, Jordan Elizabeth, Connor James and Claire Katsuko.