Robert Winton Carlson

Robert Winton Carlson Obituary

Robert Carlson June 29, 1944 – November 18, 2025

Robert Carlson, a cherished husband, loving father, and caring grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at the age of 81 in Aurora, Colorado due to complications from respiratory failure and pneumonia.

Bob was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on June 29, 1944, to Marcella and Robert Falling. After his biological father was killed in the war shortly after Bob's birth, Marcella then married Woodrow Carlson and he was later adopted by Woodrow. He grew up in Richfield, Minnesota, graduating from Richfield High School in 1962. He went on to attend the University of Minnesota, earning a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. He married the love of his life, Laura Farness, on July 9, 1966.

Bob dedicated his entire career to electrical engineering, beginning his professional life at Control Data and Univac in Minneapolis. After a job relocation to Colorado, he contributed his skills to Martin Marietta, Storage Technology, and Digital Equipment. Following his retirement, Bob stayed active by driving for several companies, including the Cherry Creek School District, Budget Rent-A-Car, and Casino Transportation, which often led to interesting dinner table conversations.

Outside of work, he enjoyed hiking, camping and 4-wheeling and when at home you could find Bob in the garage with his son Jared working on engines, cars and motorcycles. When visiting in Minnesota, he’d be found in the pole barn, tinkering with his father-in-law Grant. He had a passion for trains and motorcycles and most weekends you would find him cheering Jared on trackside. He enjoyed watching his granddaughters, Paige & Peyton competing in gymnastics and golf. He loved being the starter for the Dam East Swim Team and watching his daughter, Joanna, compete. He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, his unique sense of humor, his intense love for information, and his crushing grip. We can’t forget his other true love…mint chocolate chip ice cream!

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Laura Carlson; his son, Jared Carlson (Sherri); his brother, Thomas Carlson (Carolyn); his brother-in-law, Joel Farness (Patty); granddaughters, Paige and Peyton; uncle, Dave Lund (Dona), niece, Vanessa (Ryan) Strong; nephews, Luke Farness (Sonja Davidson), Dillon Farness, and Adam Farness; great-nephews, Edison Strong and Lachlan Farness; and great-niece, Audriana Farness.

Robert was preceded in death by his daughter, Joanna Carlson.

A celebration of life will be held at Joy Lutheran Church in Parker, CO on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 10:00 am, with a reception to follow at the church. Final placement will be held at Seven Stones at Chatfield, 9635 North Rampart Range Road, Littleton, CO 80125, at 2:00 pm for both Bob and Joanna.