James R. Carlson

Some lives shine quietly but leave a light that never fades. James R. Carlson was one of these souls. His spirit refused to be dimmed, his heart overflowed with compassion, and his life was a testament to what it means to live fully and love deeply. James R. Carlson was born on December 15, 1949, in Hammond, Indiana, to Lola Wiser and the late James Richard Carlson Sr. He passed away on August 05, 2025, with his loving and devoted wife, Carolyn Carlson, by his side. James was a beloved husband, son, brother, grandfather, and friend. He lived a life rich in love, laughter, and loyalty. Whether bowling or golfing with friends, watching baseball and other TV shows, and playing games with his family and friends. James found joy and happiness in the simple pleasures of togetherness. He was known for showing up. If no one else came, you could count on James. His presence was a gift, and his quick wit was always tempered with compassion and understanding. He was the type of man who made others feel seen, heard, and loved. James left behind a significant legacy, filled with resilience and heart, that will forever be carried by his loved ones to pass on to future generations. James had a fire inside of him to live his life to the fullest despite obstacles that arose. If someone told him he couldn’t, he would show them every way he could. A fundamental part of his legacy was how he taught each person that it is important to love with a compassionate and generous heart. James was the type of person who would change his life around or dive outside his comfort zone if it meant he could help someone in need, especially those he loves. “Love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it” is a quote that perfectly captures the enduring warmth he leaves behind and how he loved others. James was welcomed into eternal peace with his Lord and Savior and reunited with father, James Richard Carlson SR.; stepfather, Harry Wiser; his sons Jerry and James Richard Carlson III.; and brother, Mark Carlson. James’s memory and legacy is carried on by his loving wife: Carolyn Carlson, mother: Lola Wiser, siblings: Linda Lesniewsky, Bill Matlock, Michael Matlock, Tim Carlson, Rick Carlson, and David Carlson; stepsons: Ronald Frey, Robert Frey, and Brian Frey; grandchildren: Ilyssa Carlson, Ashlyn Carlson, Josh Frey, Kyle Frey, Eva Frey, Nathan Frey, Brianna Gardner, Sabrina Frey, and Wayne Frey; and great-grandchildren: Shane, Leo, Serenity, Vevina, and Tobias. The Honor Guard ceremony will take place on September 03, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at Equippers Church, located at 7545 E Ridge Rd, Hobart, IN 46342 at 11:00 a.m., where his memory and life will be honored, remembered, and celebrated by those whose lives James has made an everlasting impact on. Burns Funeral Home, Crown Point, entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com.

James R. Carlson

December 15, 1949 - August 5, 2025