Eldon Joseph Carlson, age 83, of Osceola, WI, formerly of Amery, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

Eldon was born on October 15, 1942, to William and Alice (Belisle) Carlson in Georgetown Township, WI. He grew up in Unity, WI, and graduated from Unity High School in 1960.

On May 23, 1964, Eldon married the love of his life, Tanya Olson. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, and a love of the outdoors. They were blessed with two sons, Chad and Koy, and recently celebrated 62 years of marriage.

In 1964, Eldon enlisted in the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge, he re-enlisted in the Minnesota Air National Guard, where he proudly served for more than 20 years. His commitment to serving others was a quality he carried throughout his life.

Eldon worked a variety of jobs throughout his career, eventually spending many years as a coordinator in shipping and receiving at St. Croix Press, where he retired.

Eldon’s faith was at the heart of who he was. At work, he was affectionately and sometimes jokingly, known as the “Bible thumper,” as he was never shy about sharing his faith and encouraging others to know Jesus. His relationship with God, his love for the Bible, and his church family were deeply important to him. Eldon and Tanya were longtime members of Journey Church, formerly known as First Baptist Church, in Amery.

Eldon also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed staying active throughout his life. He loved biking, walking, kayaking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hunting deer and turkey with both rifle and bow. Many of these activities were more than hobbies, they were opportunities for Eldon to enjoy God’s creation and spend time doing the things he loved.

Above all, Eldon loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, service, and love.

Eldon was preceded in death by his parents, William and Alice Carlson; and his siblings, Pat Born and Gordon Carlson.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Tanya; sons, Koy (Julie) and Chad (Marion); grandchildren, Reese (Gabriella), Eliza (Nick), Conner, Caleb, Zephaniah, and Zaylee; great-grandchildren, Grace and Gemma; sister, Diane Olson; and many other loving relatives and friends.

Eldon’s life was a testament to the things he held most dear: faith, family, service, and a willingness to share what he believed with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his faith and the example he set will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.