J.C. (John Craig) Carlson

John Craig "J.C." Carlson was born in Holland, Michigan on March 24, 1943 to Ernest Carlson and Helen Bittner. He passed peacefully at home on March 9, 2020 with his loving wife of 52 years, Nancy (Strunk) Carlson, by his side.

During his brief illness, John was blessed to be home, surrounded by the light of love and an outpouring of prayers and support from countless friends. Survived by his wife Nancy, he is also survived by his brother, Owen (Dolores) Carlson, of Jacksonville, FL; daughter, Erica (Mark) Shirey of Holland; son, Dirk Carlson of Holland; son, Niel (Lisa Ann) Carlson of Grand Rapids; grandchildren Maya Carlson, Sophie Maddox, Miles Carlson, Phoebe Maddox, Samuel Maddox, Daphne Maddox, Elsie Carlson, Ambrosia Heintz, Rebee (Jesse) Stewart, Madi Heintz, and one great-granddaughter, Juniper Stewart. John was an avid historian and genealogist. He was a proud patriot, a member of the Sons of the American Revolution (descended from 8 Revolutionary War patriots), and a veteran of the Vietnam War, having served 8 years in the United States Navy. He earned his Navy Shellback status when he crossed the equator. John was the founder of the U.S.S. Wainwright's reunion group, which has met bi-annually since 1987. It gave him great joy to see his shipmates reunited to share laughter and adventures together. John was a member of the VFW and VVA. He served on the board of the Michigan Veteran's Trust Fund for many years. He always did whatever he could to help his fellow veterans. John retired from the Holland Board of Public Works where he served as the Chief Electrician at the James DeYoung Power Plant. He loved his family, American traditional music, trains, pyrotechnics, the Green Bay Packers, marshmallows, making goofy faces at babies, rubber chickens, and he was very proud of his Viking heritage. He also loved playing cribbage and was dealt two perfect hands in his lifetime. John had a laugh that was both hearty and infamous.

John, his wife Nancy, and family have been life-long members of Zion Lutheran Church in Holland.

Visitation and Services have been postponed due to health concerns regarding the Covid-19 virus.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland, Michigan 49423.

Professional services entrusted to the Mulder Chapel.