R. Bruce Carlson

R. Bruce Carlson

ESCANABA — R. Bruce Carlson, 86, of Escanaba, went to be with his maker on Thursday morning, October 5, 2023, at his home with his family by his side. Following a two-year battle with cancer, R. Bruce was in the care of his children down state more recent. To honor his last wish, his children brought him home to Escanaba on Wednesday to spend his final hours.

He was born on January 12, 1937, in Escanaba, son to Ivan and Alice (Kosbab) Carlson. He was the 4th child of eight children. R. Bruce graduated from Escanaba High School in 1955.

He joined the Air Force in October of 1955. He served in 6006th Air Intelligence Squadron in Korea and proudly served until September of 1959. In 1979 he joined the Michigan Army National Guard Company C 107th Engineers at the Gladstone Armory in 1989.

With his two sons and his former wife, Patricia, R. Bruce began his college career at Eastern Michigan University earning his bachelor’s degree in education in 1971 and then his masters in special education in 1973. He returned to the U.P. and began his teaching career at Gladstone High School and shortly thereafter he began his employment with the Delta County Intermediate School District (ISD). He worked as public educator for over 25 years in various ISD school district positions, including a long stint as the Director of the James Fitzharris High School in Gladstone. He retired from the ISD in 1997, but continued to substitute in local public school districts.

R. Bruce was a public servant who served his community. He was elected as a city commissioner and served a term as the mayor of Gladstone. He also volunteered his time and served as the Director of the Delta County Community Action Agency.

R. Bruce loved golfing and was proud of his two holes in one. His first ace was at the Escanaba Country Club on Hole #11 and then in 2020 became a member of the “hole in one club,” on hole 13 at the Hunter’s Glen Golf Club in Crivitz, Wis., joining his brother Jack in that same accomplishment.

He enjoyed going to hunting camp, traveling, and playing cribbage and euchre, which was always a Carlson family favorite. A letter to the editor could often be found in the Daily Press with R. Bruce strongly supporting his political party and beliefs. He also enjoyed writing poetry. He was a passionate Green Bay Packer and Michigan State University fan.

Being with his family and watching all of the grandchildren in their activities and sports was always time R. Bruce treasured and appreciated.

He will be greatly missed by all who loved him… and that is many, since R. Bruce Carlson, “Never met a stranger.”

Survivors include his two sons, R. Troy (Shannan) Carlson, and Sean (Nicole) Carlson; three daughters, Kelli (Kevin) Houle, Tricia (Bob) Gouin, and Renee (JD) Scoville; grandchildren, Ryan, Justin, Jacob, Leana, Kayla, Allison, Jolee, Gabe, Caiden, Lindsey, Eli, Lars, Hannah, Logan and Noah; and siblings, Barb Douglas, Dennis Carlson, and Cindy (Bill) Menard.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Don, Richard, Jack, and Bill.

Visitation will be on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. Military honors will take place at noon and the funeral service will immediately follow. A luncheon will be served immediately following the conclusion of the funeral service at the Eagles Club, 608 Ludington Street, Escanaba.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Carlson Anchor Foundation, which will establish an R. Bruce Carlson Memorial annual scholarship for a Delta County Intermediate School District student.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.