Donald D. Carlson, age 86, of Spencer, passed away Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Spencer Hospital in Spencer, Iowa.  He was surrounded by his family.

Donald D. Carlson was born on January 26, 1937, at home in Laurens, Iowa.  He was the son of Eric (Pete) and Fern (Waldron) Carlson.  Don attended and graduated from Pocahontas High School in 1955.  He enlisted and served in the Air National Guard in Fort Dodge.  He worked for the Soil Conservation Service for 32 years and surveyed for Luft & Sons for 16 years.  Post-retirement, he worked for RCIS as a hail adjuster.

Don was a member of the United Methodist Church in Pocahontas and Grace United Methodist Church in Spencer.  He enjoyed sports, fastpitch softball, bowling, golf, and following his grandchildren's sporting events, Iowa Hawkeyes, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Twins.  He was also an avid collector of John Deere and Allis Chalmers tractors, golf tees, balls and pencils, coins, and stamps.  Don was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend.  Many of those who knew Don were used to his great stories of good times and family.  He greeted everyone and some were met with a big smile and a "hey there lucky!"

Don is survived by his daughter, Kristi (Jim) Shimon, son Kevin (Tanya) Carlson, daughter, Kelley Nedved, stepson, Chris (Michelle) Stimson, stepdaughter, Kelly (Brad) Johnson, grandchildren, Zach Carlson, Zevin Carlson, Haley Shimon, Karter Shimon, Allena Shimon, Kellen Shimon, Jack Nedved, Allie Nedved, Henry Nedved, step-grandchildren, Bailey Stimson, Hannah Stimson, step great granddaughter Harlow and friend Pat Carlson.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Fern.