MARLYN CARLSON obituary

CHINOOK Marlyn Gene Carlson, 66, a lifetime farmer and rancher in Blaine County, died at his home on July 8, 2006, due to natural causes.

A funeral service will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. in the Chinook High School Auditorium. Burial with military honors will follow at Kuper Memorial Cemetary. Marlyn was born Sept. 5, 1939, in Havre to Melvin and Annie Carlson. He joined the Montana National Guard at the age of 17 and retired after 21 years of service. He was very proud of the time he served, and formed many lifetime friendships during that time. Farming was Carlson's passion, and he farmed his entire life southwest of Chinook and in the Milk River Valley. Welding and fabrication work were also enjoyable hobbies for Carlson. He started a machine shop, Carlson's Custom Manufacturing AFM (anything for money), doing fabrication and repair work for area farmers, ranchers and businesses. Marlyn loved traveling and ventured south in his motor home every winter with his wife. He also loved to fly, acquiring a private pilot's license, and enjoyed motorcycling. Carlson was a member of the Eagles Club for 35 years, as well as the American Legion and Moose Club. Marlyn was preceded in death by his father, Melvin, and mother, Annie. Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Bonnie; son, Neil (Lynda) Carlson of Chinook; daughter Tracy (Dave) Miranda; granddaughters, Darcy and Nikki; brother, Donald (Nikki) Carlson of Whitefish; sister, Delores (Bob) Gregory of Dillon; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Memorials may be sent to Sweet Memorial Nursing Home or the Chinook Senior Citizens Center, or to the charity of one's choice. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.