RAPID CITY – Donald Lee Carlson, 81, passed away Friday, 26 January 2018 at the North Suburban Medical Center in Denver, Colorado due to heart complications.

Donald Lee Carlson was born on March 22, 1936 in Rapid City, South Dakota to Carsten and Emeline Carlson.  Donald joined the United States Navy in 1954 a few days before his 18th birthday and served for 20 years with distinction as a Chief Petty Officer as a Chef.  He returned to South Dakota upon his retirement in 1974 where he called home for the rest of his days.

As a South Dakota native and a farm boy, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, and the outdoors.  He volunteered at several veterans and local public service organizations, most recently at the Piedmont American Legion. He loved traveling (by car), carpentry, and sports.  He had a knack for telling compelling stories and hilarious jokes that brought lots of laughter to the lives of those he touched.  Throughout the years, he would organize large gatherings for family and friends.  His generous spirit and big-hearted nature capture the essence of how he lived his life. He taught his children the value of a dollar, a hard-days work, and the value of fairness.  He preached the importance of compassion and the importance of family.  He possessed high standards and an uncanny attention to detail.  Most of all, he loved being a grandpa.

He is survived by his sister, Carolyn Magda (Emery) of Rapid City; children:  Jay Heinrich (Cheryl) of Rapid City, SD, Daniel Carlson of Seattle, WA, David Carlson of Phoenix, AZ, Vonda Bellmore (William) of Rosamond, CA; grandchildren:  Ashley Bellmore Smith (William) of Abilene, TX, and Vanessa Bellmore of Rosamond, CA.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen Irene Carlson, father, Peder Carlson, mother, Emeline Carlson, and brothers Keith Carlson and Darrell Carlson.

Visitation will take place from 5-7 pm, Thursday, February 1st at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, 2700 Jackson Boulevard.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 am Friday, February 2nd funeral home with burial at the Black Hills National Cemetery at 12:30.

Arrangements by Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.