October 6, 1931 – January 5, 2026
David Carlson, age 94, passed away on January 5, 2026. Born on October 6, 1931, to David and Margaret Carlson in Duluth, MN. David graduated from Central High School and went on to serve 2 years in the U.S. Army. He married Irene Nurminen, the love of his life, on December 26, 1953. David worked in various jobs as a lineman and railroad signal worker before moving his family to Taconite Harbor in 1962, where he spent the remainder of his working years at Erie Mining Company as an electrician. He had an instrumental role in the computer automation of the loading dock systems.
David enjoyed an active outdoor lifestyle, including hunting ducks, grouse and deer, fishing on Brule Lake and trips to Isle Royal, downhill and cross country skiing, and golfing with his buddies at Lutsen National. He continued to cross country ski into his 80s and rode his 90th birthday gift – an electric recumbent tricycle – until age 93. His legacy of staying active and enjoying the outdoors lives on in his children and grandchildren.
David is survived by his children, Diane (Tim) Norman, Mike (Debra) Carlson, and Denise (Wayne) Carlson; grandchildren, Tyler, Ashley, Brett and Kendra; great-grandchildren, Trinity, Remi and Roen; and his animal companions, Peanut and Itsy. He was preceded in death by his wife Irene in 1994, his sisters Ruby and Jeanie, and niece Linda.
A celebration of life is being tentatively planned for this summer.
