Clarence Carlson passed away quietly Thursday October 20th at 97 years young. Dad was born May 13, 1914 in Owlseye, Alberta to Fred and Theckla Carlson in their original homestead log cabin on Snail Lake. In his youth Clarence hunted, fished, trapped and farmed as well as playing his violin at house parties all over the area. He was talented in many ways; at one time he was encouraged to take part in Olympic running but life interceded and he was unable to do so.

Clarence was married to Lydia Harborenko in 1940 until her passing in 1999. He was an exceptional man with boundless love for all, exceptional kindness and gentility and always had a twinkle in his eye sharing joy of life with others. Over the years he invited countless individuals to take refuge in his home, making them part of his family, even re-uniting many with their estranged families.

Over the last 50 years of his work life as a carpenter and cabinet maker, spending 5 years working with his son Alvin to support the family. Many Lethbridge homes still have cabinetry that he made; at 85 years he built and installed his last cabinets in the kitchen of granddaughter, Tisa. Dad instilled in his children a love of laughter and a love of fishing and hunting and spending time in nature. He taught them with great patience, never raising his voice in anger or frustration, demonstrating exemplary humanity to all.

Dad is survived by few friends but his family who loved and respected him included three sons, Lorenz, Alvin, Jerry and one daughter Beverly Kaltenbruner. He has 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

A celebration of Dad's life is to be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 29th at the Westside Community Church, 480 McMaster Blvd West (403-381-7211) with reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gideon Society (http://www.gideons.ca/Donate.aspx) or to the Recreation Program at Park Meadows Good Samaritans Assisted Living facility (403-328-9404).