Carl Linne' Carlson, Sr.

It is with Deep Sorrow that we announce Carl Linne’ Carlson, Sr. has passed from this life to his eternal life in Heaven. He was a man full of life experiences, boundless energy and intelligence. Linne’ aka “For For” which means Father’s Father in Swedish was born in LaGrange, Ill on June 20th, 1935 to Chester and “Bergie” Carlson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers, Bill and Bruce and his daughter Lynn Jennifer Carlson.

He is survived by his wife Claire Carlson of 23+ years, his son C. Linne’ Carlson, Jr., and his daughters Mary Lisa Carlson Watson and Sabrina Lauren Carlson. Also his son in law’s John Watson, Charlie Valetto, Stephen Valetto, David Valetto and Stan Finnerty. Daughters in law Michelle Carlson, Cathy Finnerty, Shawn Valetto and Barbie Valetto along with 15 grandchildren.

Throughout his life’s journey of over 90 years, he served in the United States Army as a test pilot. He was well traveled in the United States, Europe and The Middle East. He touched many lives with his wisdom, humor, spirit of perseverance, his stories of the countries and adventures he has lived and his Swedish heritage and his love of the USA.

Linne’ was driven by an endless thirst for knowledge and adventure. He loved many hobbies including Flying airplanes, playing Golf, Hunting, Fishing, SCUBA diving, Skiing all over the world, and cooking fabulous meals. He was a voracious reader and an eloquent letter writer which has unfortunately become a lost art of communication. He often said “The Written Word Is Here To Stay, The Spoken Word Doth Fly Away”.

A Memorial Service Celebrating Linne’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026 at Rose Lawn Funeral Home at 2942 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze FL 32563. Visitation 10-11am. Celebration of life starts at 11am.

We encourage you to honor Linne’s legacy of love and adventure by traveling, fishing & hunting, enjoying an ice cream cone with a $2 bill that he may have given you and exploring God’s infinite beauty here in America and abroad. May God Bless You All!!!