Kirk J. Carlson

KIRK JAMES CARLSON     Kirk James Carlson, age 68 of Grand Forks, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2018 at his home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Sharon Lutheran Church. Visitation will be the hour before the service.   Kirk James Carlson, son of Mervin and Patricia (Cuddigan) Carlson, was born on June 21, 1949 in Devils Lake, North Dakota. He attended school in Devil's Lake, after graduation he attended Lake Region Community College in Devils Lake. He then moved to Grand Forks to begin his career at Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad where he spent over 40 years. Kirk traveled the upper Midwest working with the men who would become his lifelong friends on the Track Department. Kirk retired from the railroad in January, 2010. After a very brief retirement, Kirk went back to work at the Acme distribution center where he worked until the present.   On July 11th, 1981 Kirk married Debra Solie in Fertile, MN. They made their home in Grand Forks, ND and began a family with their daughter Gretta, and then a son, Matthew. These two children were their pride and joy.   Kirk loved his family, spending countless hours traveling to sporting events. He became part of a network of hockey parents that formed a special bond over long distances and many years.   Kirk also enjoyed antiquing, refinishing furniture, visiting with friends, and spending time with his family at the lake. He treasured his time as Papa to his two grandsons that he was so proud of.   He is survived by his wife, Debra; Daughter Gretta and her husband Thomas Beard, and their sons Tommy and Charlie, Cavalier ND; and his son Matt and wife Kelli, Bemidji, MN