Lucille Carlson

Lucille Josephine Carlson, 97 completed her life of nearly a century, here on earth April 27, 2015. She joined hands with our Lord to begin her heavenly journey reuniting with beloved husband Chester, safe in their loving arms. Chester has been deeply missed everyday, preceding Lucille in his heavenly journey by 47 years, taken from us on March 25, 1968.

Lucille and Chester were married in 1946 following his return from service to his country in WWII. To this marriage were born three children: Ione (Gregory) Nelson of Dawson, MN; Lois (Robert) Pirsig of Paynesville, MN; and Adele (James) Maultsby of Litchfield Park, AZ. To these children were born grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Daniel (Tricia) Pirsig, Mark, Bailey, Marie & Josephine; Jennifer (Clint) Schumann; Marvin (Jillian) Nelson, Charles; Rebecca (Evan) Sturzel, Hailey. Lucille is preceded in death by her parents: Sanford & Ida Nelson, siblings: Walter (Luella) Nelson; Iona (Buell) Gunner; Florence (Halvin) Slinden.

Lucille was born September 26, 1917, grew up on a dairy farm near Atwater, attended rural schools, and graduated high school from Atwater Public School. Following high school Lucille attended Saint Cloud Teachers College graduating in 1937 with her teaching degree and obtained a lifetime teaching certificate at that time. In 1967 she completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Education. She taught elementary school in several rural schools in the Kandiyohi County area and retired teaching from Eden Valley, MN elementary school.

Lucille loved working teaching children throughout life, serving as a public school teacher, Sunday school teacher and Bible school teacher. She also was an influential community leader through co-founding local 4H and Garden Clubs, in addition serving in Extension Club, Church Council, Church Choir, Church Alter Guild & AAUW. Lucille also served as precinct election judge and participated in the Atwater Block Nurse program until age 93. Through these activities she touched the lives of many people in the community.

After retiring, Lucille enjoyed traveling and visiting her daughter in Arizona, but most of all she enjoyed living in her home community of Atwater.

Lucille lived her life as a model for us all; unselfish, giving & loving. She did not complain, speak ill of others or gossip. We celebrate the gift of her life, she taught us how to live life to its fullest by example.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers a donation in Lucille's name be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of family members that were injured in service to our country.

The family of Lucille gratefully acknowledges the compassionate care she received at Bethesda Heritage Home.

Friends, Family and Neighbors are invited to join us at a service Saturday, May 9, at 2:30 P.M. at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Atwater where she was a lifelong member. Visitation will be 5 - 8 P.M. on Friday May 8 at Peterson Brothers Atwater Funeral Home (508 Atlantic Av, Atwater MN 56209) and will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church.

Cemetery Details