Bruce Raymond Carlson

To view a recording of Bruce's funeral, click the following link, https://youtu.be/89VcL8UY3eQ   

Bruce R. Carlson, 80, of Mekinock, North Dakota, died Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Good Samaritan Society, Larimore, North Dakota.

Bruce was born on May 27, 1944, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the son of Raymond and Doris (Daily) Carlson. He was raised on the family farm in rural Honeyford, North Dakota. Bruce served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and earned the Purple Heart and an honorable discharge. 

Bruce was united in marriage to Judy Peden on May 6, 1967, at Ness Lutheran Church. They relocated to rural Mekinock in 1976. Bruce started Carlson Excavating in 1970 and also began his civil service career in 1979 at Grand Forks Air Force as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement in 2008. During his retirement years he continued to help his son with the excavating business.

Bruce was active with the American Legion in Gilby. He enjoyed fishing trips to the Red River with his boys when they were younger, and Roy Jorde. Bruce also enjoyed gardening, growing potatoes, taking care of the yard, visiting with his neighbors, tinkering in the shop and deer hunting. He cherished time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Judy Carlson; sons Sheldon (Michelle) Carlson and Danny (Jodi) Carlson; daughter Kirsten (Brad) Stromsodt; grandchildren Alan, Paige, Sarah and Hannah; great grandchildren Tatum and Aiden; brothers Richard (Mary) Carlson, Gary (Betty) Carlson and Jim (Lori) Carlson; numerous nieces and nephews.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents; son Corey; grandson Adam; and sister and brother-in-law, Becky and Jerry DeGraffenreid.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at Amundson Funeral Home with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Ness Lutheran Church, rural Mekinock, North Dakota followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m.