It is with deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Mark David Carlson at his home in Tubac, AZ, on December 4, 2024 at the age of 68.

Mark was born in Bloomington, Minnesota, on April 6, 1956, the eldest of three children to Vern and Nadine Carlson. In 1970, the Carlson family moved to Nevis, MN, where they operated a lakeside resort quaintly named Shady Shores. It was there, under the shadow of the great Tiger Muskie, that Mark met his high-school classmate and true love, Joan Marie Avenson. The pair graduated from Nevis High School in 1974 and were married the following year.

In 1979, Mark and Joan enlisted together in the United States Air Force, beginning a 16-year journey of service and adventure, living in locations as far flung as Newbury, England. Mark earned his Bachelor’s degree from Texas Lutheran University in 1980 and completed Officer Training School that same year, rising to the rank of Major before retiring in 1995. He completed his Master’s degree from Central Michigan University in 1983.

1980 also marked the birth of their first son, Cortney, followed by their second, Justin, in 1984. Mark imparted a sense of even-headedness, an easy smile, and a well-timed sense of humor; equal parts prankster and peacemaker. He also encouraged their musical side, teaching them both to play guitar. Family gatherings were commonly filled with music and singing.

Mark’s professional life reflected a steadfast commitment to public service. After his military retirement, he served as Director of Human Resources for both the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDot) and Department of Public Safety (MPS), later becoming Vice Chancellor of Human Resources for the Minnesota State Schools and Universities (MNSCU) system.

But Mark was never defined by a single career. Adventurous, endlessly curious, and undoubtedly headstrong, he undertook countless projects and nurtured a variety of hobbies. He held a scuba diving license in Minnesota before most knew what scuba was, trained with master blacksmiths, climbed Half Dome, and played enough golf to notch not one, but two, hole-in-ones. He owned two Schlotzky’s Deli restaurants, traveled to all 50 states before turning 50, and carved out daily “porch time” to grow new friendships and reconnect with friends afar.

In 2018, Mark and Joan retired to  Tubac, AZ, trading Minnesota winters for desert sunshine. As snow-birds do, they trekked back and forth, wintering with friends in Arizona, while still enjoying summers back in Minnesota with family. Mark served on the boards for both the Tubac Center for the Arts and The Headwaters Golf Club, always finding ways to support the communities he loved.

A loving husband, dedicated father, and generous friend, Mark moved through the world with a gentle spark; curious, playful, and full of quiet wisdom. He will be remembered always for his open hands, full heart, and easy smile.

He is survived by his high-school sweetheart and beloved wife of 49 years, Joan; sons, Cortney (Loren) of Portland, ME, and Justin (Jess) of Minneapolis, MN; and brother, Tim (Deb) of Willmar, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Nadine, and his sister, Karen.

A memorial open house will be held on July 12, 2025, from 2-4 pm at his home located at 27713 Cty Rd 33, Nevis, MN. All are welcome to stop by, share a story, and raise a glass in his honor.

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