Obituary of Douglas Joseph Carlson

Douglas Joseph Carlson passed away on November 29, 2024 at the age of 81 years old. DJ, who preferred going by Joe, was a lifelong marathon runner, a Master Gardener, an avid reader, and loved to learn new skills and languages. Joe was a lover of all wildlife, particularly wolves and raptors, being a frequent donor to the International Wolf Center. He also loved dogs, rescuing several in his later years and giving them a home. He had a deep love of gardening and enjoyed planting flowers for pollinators. He is preceded in death by his parents Oscar Wilhelm and Viola Ann his brother David, his brother-in-law Greg Stuttgen, his mother-in-law Marion Schauer, and his father-in-law Robert Schauer.  Joe is survived by his wife, Rita; his three daughters, Cassie, Sam, and Jessica; sons-in-law Paul, Kevin, and Jesse; grandchildren Noah and Alaina; older brother Robert Carlson; five nieces and nephews, and numerous family members and friends. Joe will be remembered as a dedicated husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and having a lifelong curiosity and love of learning, and a great sense of humor. 

A celebration of life service will be held at the Cremation Society of Minnesota chapel at 1979 Old Hudson Rd, St. Paul, MN, on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.