Richard “Dick” Carlson passed away May 31, 2016 after a short fight with pneumonia. He was born in Sacramento, California on April 11, 1927 to Leonard and Ruth Carlson. He adored his only sibling, June Carlson Ekhardt, who preceded him in death. He served in the United States Navy during the WWII as a pharmacist mate.
Richard began his career in plumbing with Golsong Plumbing as a young man and then started his own business. He was a successful contractor and owned Plumbing & Piping Fabricators on Sutterville Road in Sacramento. His men fondly referred to him as “Big C”.
His special hobbies and interests included golfing, bowling, gambling, and was a season ticket holder of the San Francisco 49ers. When watching the 49ers at home he could be heard yelling with joy or frustration.
He was a member of Valley Hi Country Club and especially enjoyed the 19th hole with his friends. Playing ‘craps’ was a favorite pastime as illustrated on his red corvette’s license plate ‘RWC 7R11’. As an exceptional pool player, betting would continue at home on his snooker table. He also was a collector of European antiques and enjoyed many trips antique hunting with his second wife, Shirley.
He was married three times and is quoted as saying, “I love to be in love.” His first wife, Diane Roll and second wife, Shirley DuBois, preceded him in death. Rosemary Carlson resides in Sacramento. He loved and adored his family. His seven wonderful children include Connie Turner of Sacramento, Susan Brown (Richard) of Diamond Bar, Craig Carlson (Kelly), Perette Villiard Carlson, Rich Carlson, Jr. (Lisa) all of Sacramento. Joseph Villiard Carlson and Wendy Carlson preceded him in death.
Ten adorable grandchildren include: Shane Turner, Brent Turner, Tonya Turner Shaw; Tamara Schlachter, Kimberly Brown; Craig Carlson, Jr. Tiffany Carlson; and Marisa Villiard; Bianna Serrano and Cindy Hatcher. Fourteen talented great-grand-children: Kayla, Jadyn, and Brodin Shaw; Jackson, Carson, and Grace Turner; Joshua, Justin, and Julia Schlachter; Samuel Brown; Caleb and Charlie Carlson; Gianna and Tanner Kelly.
You were loved and will be greatly missed. Your quick wit and sense of humor will live on in all of us. We love you Dad.
Memorial services will be held June 17, 2016 at the East Lawn Memorial Park at 4300 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, California. The services will start at 2:00 P.M. Remembrances in Richard’s name may be made to the ARC/For People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on June 12, 2016