Gerhard Frederick “Gary” Carlson, 88, of Federal Way, WA, formerly St. Joseph, MI. passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Homes Sweet Home Care in Auburn, WA.
Visitation will take place from 10-11 am on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI with a celebration of life at 11. Interment will follow at Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph.
Memorial contributions in Gary’s name may be made to The Michigan Maritime Museum. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Gary was born on June 24, 1937, to Gerhard Enoch and Amethyst (Bullinger) Carlson in Manistee, MI. Gary graduated from Benton Harbor High School with the Class of 1955 and went on to continue his education at Western Michigan University, beginning his career as a History teacher, and later earning his PhD in Psychology from Wayne State University, and shifting to a career in School Psychology.
On August 1, 1960, he married the love of his life, Judith Lynne Kurek. Together they built a life grounded in love, family, and shared adventure that spanned more than six decades, traveling the world and making lifelong friendships, always creating a home wherever the family landed.
Professionally, Gary dedicated his career to school psychology, working as a School Psychologist in Berrien County until 1974. That year, he and Judy embraced a new chapter, moving overseas to Saudi Arabia, where they continued their journey together with curiosity and purpose, working as a School Psychologist as Director of Pupil Personnel. They eventually returned to St. Joseph in 1991 before relocating to the Seattle, Washington area in 2000 to be closer to their growing family. Though they came to love the Pacific Northwest, Gary and Judy always held a special place in their hearts for Southwest Michigan, maintaining a cottage in St. Joseph where they spent many cherished summers with friends and family.
Gary lived a full and deeply engaged life, shaped by a wide range of passions and interests. He had a lifelong love of boats and trains, volunteering his time both at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven and at the Heston Steam Museum in Indiana. His dedication to the water extended to his service in the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Naval Reserves, where he served as Quartermaster.
A true student of navigation, Gary possessed an exceptional knowledge of boating and the water. He gave lectures on navigating boats with maps and historical navigation tools, and enjoyed teaching boating safety courses through the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
He was also an avid reader and devoted tennis fan. Later in life, Gary discovered a love for cooking and took great pride in mastering the art of the perfect French omelet.
Above all, Gary was a family man. He cherished and is survived by his daughters, Pamela Carlson and Elise Carlson, and his grandchildren, Benjamin Joray and Soren Joray with whom he found great joy. He also held a special place in his heart for his three beloved Border Collies, who brought him constant companionship and happiness.
Gary is also survived by his brother, Carl (Beverly) Carlson, nephews Erik Carlson, Blake Carlson, Aron (Kirsten) Carlson and sister-in-law, Jan Carlson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Amethyst Carlson and beloved wife of 65 years, Judith Lynne Carlson.
Gary will be remembered for his intellect, curiosity, steady presence, and the deep love he had for his family. His love and character will be carried forward through the generations to come.
Memorial Contributions
The Michigan Meritime Museum
Service Details
Visitation
When
May 16th, 2026 10:00am – 11:00am
Where
Starks & Menchinger Chapel
Address
2650 Niles Rd.
St. Joseph, MI 49085
Service
When
May 16th, 2026 11:00am
Where
Starks & Menchinger Chapel
Address
2650 Niles Rd.
St. Joseph , MI 49085
Interment
Where
Riverview Cemetery
Address
2925 Niles Road
St. Joseph , MI 49085