“`html

Obituary: Laurie Carlson

Laurie Carlson, 74, of Gardiner, passed away peacefully at home on July 31, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

Early Life and Education

Laurie was born on March 25, 1950, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, to Norwood and Marjorie Merrill. She graduated from Gardiner Area High School in 1968, where she was a varsity cheerleader and sang in multiple choral groups.

Family Life

Laurie married Kenneth Carlson in 1970. They had two children, Kathryn and Kenneth. Laurie was a dedicated mother and wife, always putting her family’s needs first. She was known for her infectious laugh, her warm smile, and her unwavering support.

Community Involvement

Laurie was an active member of her community. She volunteered her time at the local food bank and soup kitchen. She also enjoyed singing in the choir at her church.

Later Years

In her later years, Laurie enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, Freya, Sophia, Hanna, and Asa. She also loved camping, skiing, and being outdoors. Laurie was a bright and cheerful presence in everyone’s life who will be dearly missed.

Survivors

Laurie is survived by her children, Kathryn Carlson and Kenneth (Meaghan) Carlson; grandchildren, Freya, Sophia, Hanna, and Asa; sisters, Patrice (Jay) Reynolds and Beth (Randy) Glidden; sister-in-law, Pati Carlson; nieces and nephews, Melissa Smart, Merrill Miah Clark, John Glidden, Jake Clark, and Miranda Pelletier; Mother-in-law Norma Porter, as well as several lifelong friends.

Services

Visiting hours celebrating Laurie’s life will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 4-6 p.m., at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, at 10 a.m., at the First Baptist Church, 47 Church Street, Gardiner. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Gardiner.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Laurie’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

“`