Gordon Carlson
Agriculture 1954
1934 - 2007
Gordon Carlson left us on May 9th the same way he lived, with integrity and humour.
Born May 18th, 1934 at Vulcan, Gordon grew up and worked his entire life at the homestead farm NE of Champion. One of his greatest accomplishments was being recognized by the province for 100 years of family farming. Gordon attended Olds College and served with the Calgary Highlanders Reserves 1952-54. He met his wife Ann Herbig in 1958. For 22 years Gordon and Ann would hire international students through the International Agricultural Exchange Association (IAEA). Gordon became an important part of IAEA, serving as Canadian President and making several trips to Europe during this time with the association.
Gordon had a strong belief in community both locally and beyond. He believed that in order to receive and make a difference, you must give back. With this in mind he served for over 45 years with the Champion Lions Club, manning posts at all levels. Gordon served on town celebration committees, United Church boards, reunion committees, political associations and was always there to lend a hand to a neighbour.
Gordon and Ann retired from active farming in 2000 and ranching in 2005. As things slowed down they took the time to do many of the things they talked about for so many years. They traveled nearby and abroad and spent countless hours with their granddaughter Kaylin.
Gordon is survived by his wife of 46 years, Ann, his son and daughter-in-law Graeme & Tammy Carlson and their daughter Kaylin, his daughter Lorna Carlson and son-in-law Lloyd Good. Gordon was predeceased by his infant son Garth, and his parents Ted and Lavinia. He is also survived by his sister Betty Karapita and her family, Mervin, Kent and Dana, his sister in law & brother -in-law Ruth and Gord Keeley, his aunt and uncle Fred and Phyllis Jervis and numerous relatives in Alberta and British Columbia.
A tremendous thank-you to Dr. L. Wade and the entire staff at the Vulcan Community Health Centre for their attention and respect for Gordon and the family. We could not have asked for better care during these final days.
Gordon will be missed by his friends and family but we will remember his sense of humour, his love of community and his concern for others. Happy trails to you, until we meet again.
For more information please contact:
Cathy Scott
Alumni Affairs Officer
Office of Advancement
Olds College
4500-50th Street
Olds, Alberta T4H 1R6
Phone (403) 556-4748
Fax (403) 556-4704