John

Carlson Sr

John Carlson SR was born September 13, 1935, to Carl and Hallie (Pond) Carlson. John passed away November 5, 2026, at the age of 91 years.

John grew up in the Pleasant Valley area in Custer County & attended school at the Pleasant Valley school.

John married Mary Hines and to this union, two daughters were born Sharron and Carmen. After John and Mary split ways he met, Doris Stevens, a widowed mother of three and were married in 1967. John helped Doris raise her three children Debbie, Dave, and Darrell. In February 1970 John and Doris welcomed son John Jr to the family and in June 1977 daughter Carrie was born.

John & Doris lived in California for a few years after they were married & he worked in the California sawmill. The family moved back to Wyoming in 1968 where he worked for the Cambria Forest. The final move for John & family was to Dewey; SD & this is where John remained until his death. John cut firewood for many people, his customers were well taken care of he split, delivered & stacked the wood for them.

John was known by his nicknames “Hammer” “Hambone” & “Hank”

John had a great love of his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. John had a special place in his heart for his animals. The grandkids all loved going to grandpa ‘s house to see his horses, donkeys and his little mule named Shania. John had several companion dogs over the years his last faithful friend named Princess laid with him the last night he was in his home.

John enjoyed hunting, fishing and most importantly spending time with family.

John lived a long life and was able to remain at home until a fall November 4, 2026, John passed away at Monument Health in Rapid City.

John survived by His children, Sharon, Carmen, Debbie, Dave, Darrell, John Jr & Carrie. Brother Charlie and many grandchildren & great-grandchildren.

Preceding John in death is his parents, brother Ben and sisters Sandy, Mona & Sidney.

The family is planning a private memorial service in the future.