Richard D. Carlson was born at Silver Cross Hospital on June 6, 1942 and resided in Joliet for 84 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, Sylvia (Sandberg) and Richard V. Carlson of Fourth Avenue in Joliet.

A graduate of Woodland School, Washington School, and Joliet Township (Central) High School, Richard also graduated from Joliet Junior College and the College of St. Francis. He served 4 years in the United States Air Force and then returned to employment at Amoco Chemical Company (later BP), where he retired as a Maintenance Supervisor after 37 ½ years. He is survived by Linda A. Carlson, with whom he celebrated 50 years of marriage on November 8, 2025. He is also survived by his brother, Dale (Carol) Carlson, of Appleton, Wisconsin; nephews Ron and Brian; and his brother-in-law, Dr. Christopher (Manuela) Perkins of San Diego. He leaves behind his best friend of 84 years, Donald (Sharon, deceased) Martin and their daughters, Jane Farris and Linda Rousonelos.

Private services were held at the Carlson Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, with Military Honors and interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Joliet, Illinois.