Ronald Carlson

Ronald Kenneth Carlson, 80, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2014, at Banner Garden Hospice Center in Mesa, AZ surrounded by his wife, family and friends.

Ron was born July 13, 1933, in Stutsman County, North Dakota, to Roy and Lydia (Pfaff) Carlson. He graduated in 1951 from Sheyenne River Academy which was in Harvey, ND, and is now Dakota Adventist Academy in Bismarck, ND. Ron married Arella Jean Lang on November 13, 1953. They made their home on the farm near Cleveland, ND. They had two wonderful children, a daughter Denise and a son Lonnie. After 25 years of farming, they moved from the farm to Denver, CO, and Ron turned his focus to business ventures. Several years later they decided to build a home in Jamestown, ND, for the summer and Phoenix, AZ, area in the winter. That way they could be close to their family and friends. Through the years Ron invested with friends and family in many different ventures that were very successful. He was a partner in Thomasbrook, a large apartment complex, in Lincoln, NE. A few years later they became active partners in a large Retirement/Nursing/Alzheimer's Center in Florida. He also was an amazing carpenter/craftsman and made beautiful cabinets.

On January 2, 2005 Ron married Norma Reile. They lived in Jamestown, ND, and Mesa, AZ.

Ron served on many boards such as Union College in Lincoln, NE, where he received an Honorary Business Degree. He was a very active member in the Seventh Day Adventist Church and was a member in Jamestown where they lived in the summer and Camelback in Scottsdale, AZ, in the winter. He believed in giving back and helping others both financially and as a mentor. His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. He will be remembered and missed for his everlasting smile, love and friendship.

Ron is survived by his wife, Norma; children, Denise Smith of Waddell, AZ and Lonnie (Marga) Carlson of Bismarck, ND; grandchildren, Julia Smith, John Smith and Jennie Smith; brother, Wally Carlson; sisters, Carol (Vernon) Seibold and Delaine (Ivan) Morford; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jean and his parents, Roy and Lydia Carlson.