Harold "Hal" J. Carlson

Passed away peacefully at Lightways Hospice on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the age of 82 years.

Beloved husband of Cynthia R. Carlson (née Magruder). Dear cousin of Jim (Nancy) Werner, Terry (Sharon) Werner, Tom (Judy) Werner, Kathy (Mark—deceased) Fischer, Jeanne (John) Wolfe, Ann (Tim) Mundt, Mike (Tanya—deceased) Hasselbauer, and Karen (Doug) Hasselbauer Burke.

Preceded in death by his first wife, Carol A. Carlson (2011) and his parents Harold J. and Annabelle Carlson.

Hal was born July 22, 1943, in Joliet and graduated from Joliet Township High School, Class of 1961, and later from the University of Illinois Chicago. An accomplished architect, Hal was the principal owner and partner of Russ & Carlson Architects in Joliet for twenty years. Before establishing his own firm, he served as vice president at Larson & Wolf Architects in Aurora. Hal began his career with Perkins & Will Architects in Chicago prior to working with McDonald's Corporation designing office area.

Deeply engaged in the Joliet community and his profession, Hal was a member of the Joliet Noon Lions Club, the Joliet Area Historical Museum, the Cathedral Area Preservation Association, and the American Institute of Architects.

Hal's interests reflected his deep appreciation for creativity and the beauty in everyday life. He found peace and joy in his garden, where he loved watching things grow and come to life under his care. Traveling was one of his greatest pleasures—whether exploring the architecture of old cities or the quiet beauty of nature, he always had his camera in hand, capturing the details others might overlook. He enjoyed long bike rides on local trails, taking in the fresh air and simple moments along the way. Hal also had a special appreciation for craftsmanship and design, something that carried into his well-loved collection of fine pens, each one chosen for its beauty and precision.

Memorial services will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Joliet, on Tuesday, October 28th at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Memorials to Lightways Hospice, the American Heart Association, or the Joliet Area Historical Museum will be appreciated. Visitation will be Tuesday from 9:00 A.M. until time of services.