Stanley G. Carlson

With full hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Stanley George Carlson, age 86, who left this world peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family.  

Born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, he carried the values of loyalty, kindness, and quiet strength throughout his life. Stan graduated from St. Raphael's Catholic School and Madison Central High School in 1958, and was a Wisconsin State employee for 40+ years. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, an adoring grandfather, a steadfast brother, a cherished uncle, and a loyal friend to many. His presence made every gathering warmer, every story funnier, and every challenge a little easier to face. He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his generous spirit, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. 

A true Wisconsin resident, he loved camping, especially in Door County, singing in the Blessed Sacrament church choir, and although he spent his later years as a snowbird in Arizona, Stan was a Wisconsin sports fan to his core, cheering passionately for Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Milwaukee Brewers. Whether it was a crisp fall weekend or a summer afternoon at the ballpark, he found joy in every game and loved sharing that joy with the people around him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years Bonita (Bonnie) Riedlcarlson; sister-in-law Linda Riedl; siblings Charles (Shirley), Victoria Ross, Tim (Jeanne), and Terry (Marie); four children from his first marriage, Chris (Sherri Smith), Carole, Craig (Stephanie), and Kimberly (Jason Anderson); grandchildren Lisa, Ian, Canaan (Kayla), Luke, Cameron, Kate, and Eden; great-grandchildren Caleb (Alycia), AiJada, TJ, and Ressick. He was preceded in death by parents Malcom and Mary (Stumpf) Carlson; brothers Dan, Paul, Fred, Joe, and Arty; and his first wife, Mary (Coyle) Carlson.

A celebration of Stan's life will be held at Fairview Sports Bar in Jefferson, WI on Sunday, April 19, 2026, with visitation at 11am, Service at 12 noon, followed by luncheon. In honor of his lifelong devotion, the family encourages everyone to wear their favorite Packers, Badgers, and Brewers gear as a tribute to the teams—and the man—who brought so much spirit into their lives.

May his memory be a blessing, and may we continue to feel his love in every cheer, every family gathering, and every moment of kindness we pass on.

Our family would like to thank Aurora Medical Center Summit ER, Med Surg, and ICU, as well as Rainbow Hospice of Johnson Creek for their excellent care of Stan. Olsen-Gibson Funeral Home of Jefferson is assisting the family.

Olsen-Gibson Funeral Home is serving the family.

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