Scott Carlson (BHS '67) 1949-2009

Sad news to report, classmate and friend, Scott Carlson died last year. This has been confirmed by the following obituary obtained by Linda Mustion:

Scott Wayne Carlson
July 11, 1949 - July 18, 2009

Scott Wayne Carlson was born to William and Lorraine Carlson on July 11, 1949 in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The family, including Scott's older brother, Steve, and younger brother, Brent, moved to Grand Junction, Colorado in 1953. The family owned and worked a small farm and ranch. During these early years in Colorado, Scott delighted in the outdoors and was often found hunting, fishing, or hiking.

In 1963 economic necessity required a move to Burbank, California and Scott became very involved in his church, developing a lifelong passion and commitment to serve his Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. After graduating from Burbank High School, Scott joined the Marine Corps and proudly served his country. He was a three tour decorated Vietnam Veteran achieving the rank of Corporal. The Purple Heart was among the honors that Scott received.

Scott was eventually placed on full Veteran's disability due to a number of life impairing ailments that included chronic debilitating headaches and sinus issues related to Agent Orange exposure and shrapnel that remained lodged in his brain following a close proximity grenade explosion. Despite Scott's difficulties, his heart's desire was to serve the Lord and following military service he began to pursue becoming a missionary bush pilot to bring the gospel to people groups living in hard to reach areas of the earth.

He became further disabled from a second story fall when the floor gave way on a decaying church building he was helping to tear down and then rebuild with others from his missionary organization. Following hip replacement surgery, Scott's plan to become a missionary bush pilot was dashed. However, he continued with his desire to serve God and pursued nursing and Bible degrees in college. Scott also returned to live in his beloved Colorado.

Scott had many and varied interests. He also continued as an avid outdoorsman throughout his life when health permitted. Known as a man of deep and abiding faith, Scott was a regular member of Calvary Chapel Grand Junction and hosted a weekly men's Bible study in his home. He was a generous donor in the name of the Lord to missionaries in far off lands and those in need at home. Scott went to be with the Lord on July 18, 2009 at age 60.

He is survived by his brothers, Brent and Steve, who reside in California and Minnesota respectively, as well as a host of extended family members. Scott will be greatly missed by all who had the honor and privilege of knowing this quiet and gentle servant of Christ.

Published Jul 31, 2009, Colorado Home Times, Boulder, Colorado.