Michael W. Carlson

Michael William Carlson, age 84 of Pittsburgh, PA passed away on November 14, 2023. Born June 12,1939 in Kane, PA, he was the beloved son of Joyce (Jackson) and William Carlson. He is survived by Linda (Conrad) his wife of 31 years, and siblings Robert Carlson, Sandra Johnson, Vicki Carlson, Steve (Tonya) Carlson, and many nieces and nephews. Mike was so very proud of his three daughters, Debbie (Al) Krygeris, Donna (Skip) Shemon and Diane (Matt) Cullen, who combined, blessed him with nine grandchildren, Michael and Matt Krygeris, Catie (Ryan) Sherry, USAF 1st Lt. Daniel (Paige), Claire and Andrew Shemon, and John, Joe and Sarah Cullen. His battle with cancer was an inspiration for several of his grandchildren to pursue careers in science and medicine. He was preceded in death by his sister Susan Arnold, brothers-in-law Chuck Arnold and Larry Johnson, nephew Mark Johnson, his former spouse Dolores Carlson, and infant son.

With a B.S. and an M.Ed. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, his 35 years in education were spent as a Marketing and Business teacher, coach, and assistant athletic director at Highlands High School in Natrona Heights. Mike sponsored the student vocational organization DECA, was appointed to the state DECA Board of Trustees, and served several terms as board president. He had a profound effect on the lives and careers of many students. On his retirement from teaching, he was recruited by a former student to work as a surveyor for Weleski Transfer.

Mike was an avid Steeler fan going back as far as being able to sit with a cooler of beer on the sidelines at Latrobe training camps. He became a season ticket holder when Franco was drafted, and even made his way to London to watch his favorite team. Mike and Linda loved to travel whether it was coming face-to-face with whales on a Hawaiian cruise or lions on an African safari. At home he enjoyed golfing, cooking for family and friends, and gardening. An avid reader, he usually read 3 to 5 books a week. Mike will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Private arrangements entrusted to Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care with a memorial service to be held at a later date.

Memorial gifts can be made to AHN Cancer Institute. Please write AHNCI – Jefferson on the check memo line, and send to AHN Office of Development, 4818 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15224.