Carlson, Richard J. age 81 of Andover, passed away September 23, 2017. He was an amazing husband of nearly 57 years to Arlene, as well as an amazing father, grandfather, brother, mentor, friend and neighbor. He was preceded in death by Arlene; parents Mary and Victor; and son Tom. Richard was also Preceded in death by his brothers Victor (Junior), Clifford (Bud), David, Patrick and James and Sisters Betty Sue and Mary Lou. Richard is survived by his children, Rich (Brenda) and his sons Dustin and Dalton and Josh, Cathy (Jim) Smiley and their daughter Brianna, Tim and his daughters Kelsie (Sam) Leof, Corbin (Lance) Arneson and Mckenzie (Sam) Pedersen, Kelly (Ric) Riebe and their daughters Sydney and Samantha, Kristy (Kraig) Stumo and their children, Konner and Kayla.  Richard has two surviving siblings; sister, Florine Sangrene and brother Steven Carlson(Sharon), his precious great-grandchildren, Adelyn and Nathan Leof, Taylee Arneson and Baby Pedersen; along with MANY other loving relatives and friends.

Richard lived each day with his unwavering faith. In his early years, Richard lived on Medicine Lake and spent most days swimming or ice skating. Unfortunately, Richard lost his dad at a young age and soon took on the role of protector of his mother and nine other siblings. His strong work ethic carried him then as it did throughout the rest of his life.  Richard and Arlene met while rollerskating and were married in 1955 at St.Stephens Church in Minneapolis.

In 1963, they moved with their four oldest children to Andover.  The youngest two were born after the move, completing their family of eight.   It was in Andover they found the place they called home for more than 45 years.  The house was small and had two bedrooms, but again with hard work, anything was possible.  Richard turned the attic into a bedroom, in order to have three bedrooms for their family.  Dinners around the table every evening, with the eight of them, were of utmost importance.

Richard and Arlene were long time members of St. Stephens Church in Anoka.  They were volunteers in the church and surrounding communities, and were also members of the Coon Rapids Lions for many years.  Richard was Lions president from 1971-1972.  He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, all while raising six children.

Richard was grateful when he started a career in electronics.  He worked very hard for his family everyday.  Again his dedication and work ethic showed when later in his career he was promoted to the position of Senior Vice-President. He was so blessed over the years to work for Ragon Electronics (Shelley-Ragon Electronics), Hartzell Corporation and Kent Electronics.  Sadly, at age 56, Richard had to retire due to health reasons. He was so grateful for the many relationships he established and opportunities he had over the years.

Richard continued his hobbies of reading, crossword puzzles, Cryptoquip, studying the history of his family, Monday morning breakfasts,  golfing, seeing his friends and always helping anyone in need.  After his faith, his loves were Arlene, his family, his friends and GOLF.

After Richard retired, he and Arlene spent the winter months for almost 15 years in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.  Again, blessed!  They loved their time in Arizona and enjoyed the many, many friends they made. There were many laughs, talent shows, card games and numerous rounds of golf.

After Arlene's passing in 2012, he missed her everyday.  In 2014, while struggling with Alzheimer's, Richard went to live at the Wellstead in Rogers.  We are happy to say that the disease never took his spirit or his smile.  He was fortunate to have many loving care-givers there.  He was one of the favorites at The Wellstead; always making friends and offering kind words.

Richard will be dearly missed.  He had a heart of gold, a mind like a steel trap, endless love for his family and a kind spirit that kept on giving. The memories will be cherished, the circle of love and hope will not be broken, and the spirit of giving will continue through all that knew him. "...And now these three remain: Faith, hope and love, and the greatest of these is Love ." 1 Corinthians 13:13