Dr. Gerald L. Carlson, age 92, of Richmond Hill, GA, passed away, Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at Clemson Heritage.
Born, December 2, 1929, he was the son of the late Karl Edward Carlson and Genevieve Wilson Carlson. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Dean Carlson; and sister, Elaine Carlson Graham.
Dr. Carlson was born into poverty on a dairy farm in Minnesota. He was an extremely hard worker who never forgot his modest childhood even though he had a long, successful career in research and teaching of Biochemistry. His wife, Lena, and he raised 3 children through many obstacles.
He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Carlson (Elliot); son, Scott Carlson (Helena); and 5 grandchildren, Cedric, Sasha, Noah, Finn, and Soren.
A tribute from his daughter:
Thank you, Dad, for sharing your knowledge, your love of learning, your inquisitive mind, and your support. Because of you, I was ready to persevere through many challenges. Because of you, I knew how to change my own tire, to catch a fish, and to understand basic scientific principles that guide all of us in life. Thank you for spending time with me, for raking leaves with me, for teaching me how to garden, for teaching me about the beauty that can be found while studying the world around us. Thank you for teaching me how to roller skate, how to drive a car, how to understand an electric circuit. We did a great job installing that car stereo together when I was 16. Thank you. Thank you, Dad, for building a doghouse for our dog, for building a cage for my pets, for getting me Krispy Kreme donuts when I pleaded for them on a Sunday. Thank you for showing me your adventurous spirit and accompanying me on trips like seeing Rome and visiting me in Ecuador. Now, I see how quickly time passes and wish I could have slowed down to learn more from you. Thank you for caring. Thank you for showing me the value of honesty, integrity, determination, and hard work. Thank you for your service to our country. I realized upon reading your records that I had little understanding of what an intense time you spent in the Army. Self-reliance is paramount for all of us to aspire. You demonstrated that beyond any other person I have ever known. Thank you, Dad, for being you. You will be missed but will live on in my heart and memories. I will carry on with the lessons you have taught me and make every effort to contribute to a better world. With Gratitude and Love, Lisa