Brian M. Carlson

Brian Matthew Carlson, 66, of Rockford, IL peacefully passed away at home on Friday, June 17, 2022, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters.

Brian was born in Rockford, IL on May 30, 1956, son of Robert and Helen Carlson. He attended Holy Family Catholic School, he graduated from East High School, Class of 1974, and from Illinois State University. Brian married his best friend, Coleen, on April 28, 1984. Throughout their 38 years of marriage, they shared countless adventures and memories. They built an incredible life. They began their journey living in Denver, Colorado where they loved to ski, camp, and spend time with friends. They returned home to Rockford to be close to their parents as they created a family of their own.

Brian was a devoted and loving father to his two daughters, Taylor and Andrea. He adored being a dad above all things. His girls were his ultimate pride and joy. His best days were those spent with his family, including his dogs, Marley and Tosh. Brian worked as a professional land surveyor for over 45 years and was a partner at Arnold Lundgren & Associates, working alongside his father and many colleagues who became close friends. Brian was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Family Catholic Church and a valued member of the Rockford community.

Brian showed love through his gift of cooking. Nothing made him happier than a crowded table. He took delight in feeding and serving his family and friends. He was a committed fan of the Denver Broncos. He cheered for the Fighting Illini of the University of Illinois, where both of his daughters attended, to his immense pride. He never missed a Dad’s Weekend football game or a chance to go down and hang out with his daughters. Brian was a skilled fisherman. He looked forward to nothing more than his annual fishing trip with his buddies to Dairymen’s in Boulder Junction or visiting his sister and brother-in-law in Vero Beach, Florida.

Brian fostered a community of lifelong, treasured friends who he loved like family. He was truly a beloved man who will be remembered by all for his captivating storytelling, his infectious laughter and joy, his passion for good food, his generous heart, his iconic dance moves, but mostly for his extraordinary love for his family and friends.

Those left to honor Brian’s memory include his loving wife, Coleen Carlson; cherished daughters, Taylor Carlson (Patrick Seidel) and Andrea Carlson (Thomas Furlong); sister, Beth Ann (Steve) Reynolds; nephews, Sean and Matt; sister-in-law, Pat (Bob) Larsen; nephews, Rob (Kiran) and Mike; Grandma Rae Ann Johnson and many, many friends who are like family. Brian is predeceased by his parents, Bob and Helen, and parents-in-law, Bob and Delores McDermott.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 24, 2022 from 10:00 am until time of a memorial Mass at 12:00 pm located at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Rockford, IL 61107. A Church luncheon will immediately follow Mass and all are welcome to come celebrate. A private burial will conclude later at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Winnebago, IL.

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