James "Jim" Carlson

James "Jim" Carlson, age 77, of White Bear Lake, MN, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home, following a long and courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's. His loving wife, Kathie, was by his side.

Jim was born and raised in White Bear Lake. A proud Army Veteran, he honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. Following his service, Jim became a lifetime member of the White Bear Lake VFW and a member of the Hugo American Legion. Jim dedicated many years of hard work to the White Bear Lake Public Works Department. He took immense pride in caring for Downtown White Bear Lake, ensuring the sidewalks were cleared of snow, hanging the seasonal flags on the light poles, and putting up the beautiful Christmas lights each year. His favorite role was managing the town's parks, where he loved connecting with community members. He never met a stranger; Jim was naturally drawn to people, always carried a bright smile, and would immediately pop over to thank any fellow veteran he saw and strike up a conversation.

Jim and Kathie shared 52 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they loved Polka dancing, frequently gathering with friends across Minnesota and Wisconsin- and famously showing off their skills on the dance floor at their son Chad's wedding. They also relished their experiences traveling the world together, by car, plane, and boat.

An avid sportsman, Jim grew up playing hockey and softball, later serving as a referee and umpire. He was his children's biggest fan, cheering them on in their sports and activities. Long after his own kids were grown, Jim could regularly be found in the stands supporting White Bear Lake High School hockey. As the years passed, golf became his true passion. As a dedicated member of Keller Golf Club, Jim spent almost every open day on the course. Even as his memory began to fail him, his wonderful golf friends took him under their wings, ensuring he could keep playing the game he loved. Among his most cherished memories were the Father's Day and doubles tournaments he played alongside his son, Chad.

Jim also shared a unique bond with his daughter, Jessica. He spent countless hours teaching Jessica how to drive a stick shift - he even adapted the car for Jessica so she could reach the clutch in order to get the feel. It was important to Jim that Jessica learned all about car maintenance and how to do many things on her own such as oil changes, tire changes, and more making sure that she would never be taken advantage of when having a vehicle serviced.

Jim also had a massive heart for animals, from his golden retrievers, Sugar and Pollyanna, to his beloved grand-dogs. He was a legendary friend to local wildlife, frequently buying corn in bulk to feed the neighborhood ducks. Jim and Jessica spent many fond hours training dogs and feeding the ducks together. Jim and Chad also shared a love for the outdoors, creating lasting memories hunting deer, pheasant, ducks, and grouse together.

Of all his titles, nothing brought Jim more immense joy than being a grandfather. The birth of his grandson, Callen, marked one of the happiest chapters of his life. Callen was Jim's ultimate bright spot. Whenever Jim was having a hard time, Callen always brought a smile to his face.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Laura Carlson; his parents-in-law, John and Marcie Mlynarczyk; and his siblings, Richard, Carol, Ken, and Larry. He is survived and deeply missed by his devoted wife, Kathie; his son, Chad (Emily); his daughter, Jessica; his cherished grandson, Callen; siblings Bob, Jerry, Debbie, Cindy, Kay, Paul, and Wes, and many other life long friends.

Jim, we will miss you more than words can portray. You will always be remembered for your smile, your kindness, your laughter, and your boundless love. May you rest in peace. Service Information: A visitation and celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Bradshaw Funeral & Cremation Services, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater, MN. Visitation: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM. Service: 3:30 PM.