Marlene A. Carlson

Marlene A. (Nelson) Carlson, 81, Rockford, passed away on Thursday, August 1, 2024, after a long and difficult battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She was born on September 24, 1942, the daughter of Verner and Mary (Powilaites) Nelson. She married Dennis Carlson on May 5, 1961, in Rockford where they raised two children.

She was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she worked for many years. She often enjoyed taking senior trips with Trinity. Marlene would volunteer for funerals to serve and for Trinity day care fundraisers. She hostessed many parties for the family and loved to entertain. When she was not cooking for her family, they would go to her favorite restaurant, Stockholm Inn. She also loved to quilt, read, and do crossword puzzles.

Marlene is survived by her son, Brad Carlson; her daughter, Lori (Tim) Pennington; her brother, Dennis Nelson; her sister, Diana Perkins; her grandchildren, Austin and Lindsay Pennington; her great grandchild, Aiden Pennington; as well as her numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded by her husband, Dennis; her parents Verner and Mary; her aunt, Linnea Brown; and her uncle, Henry Brown.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford. A memorial service will be held following the visitation Thursday, August 8, at 12:00 p.m. To share memorial or extend condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

In Lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church.