Linda Carlson

Friends and family members will attest that Linda Carlson was a wonderful combination of being a free-spirit, but yet incredibly organized and yet reserved. She enjoyed the people in her life, from her parents and sisters, to her husband, children, grandchildren and numerous friends. Although she was taken far too soon, Linda leaves behind a priceless collection of memories for her loved ones to hold close.

The early 1950s were among some of the most influential years for the United States. Following the end of WWII a short time before, the economy was thriving, and the historical baby boom was underway. It was during this exciting time that Floyd and Lois (Heetderks) Walsworth of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of their first child. They were so happy to welcome their daughter, Linda Lois, into their arms on November 18, 1953. The family would grow to include Linda’s two younger sisters, Susan and Ruthie, as well.

Growing up, Linda enjoyed a typical childhood of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home on Oaklawn Street. As a girl, Linda liked playing with dolls, drawing, and all things fashion. She was in touch with her creative side from a young age. The Walsworth family vacationed in Pentwater every summer, a tradition Linda would later carry on with her own family. She attended local schools, including Aberdeen Elementary School and Creston High School. While in high school, Linda played the flute in the band. She worked at Knapp Avenue Creamery, channeling her love for ice cream into her first job.

Following her graduation from Creston, Linda pursued further education at Grand Rapids Community College. She worked to learn the skills she needed to become a dental assistant while working in the catalog department at Sears. Once she graduated, Linda began working in a dentist office. She went on to build a successful career for herself, building many deep friendships. Linda truly enjoyed her work and the people she worked with, and she would often look back fondly on the gatherings and trips she was able to experience.

Exciting changes were on the horizon for Linda as she met the man who would forever hold the key to her heart. His name was Steve Carlson, and the two first met during Linda's college years. There was an instant connection between them and with a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Linda and Steve were married at First Evangelical Covenant Church on June 11, 1976. The newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon to the Bahamas before settling into their first home on Fremont Street that they would go on to refinish. Two years later, Linda and Steve moved into their longtime home on Powers.

There was nothing that meant more to Linda than her family. She and Steve were overjoyed to bring their two children, Bret and Holly, into their hearts and lives. Linda thrived in her role as a mother, and she strove to raise her children well while keeping a meticulously organized home. She was truly the heartbeat of her household. The Carlson family took many summer vacations to Pentwater, just as Linda had done when she was a child. They even rented the same cottage for many years, which was the backdrop for priceless memories. The family also made trips to visit family in San Diego, and they enjoyed Disneyland while they were there. Later in life, Linda was thrilled to become a grandmother as well. Linda always considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Over the years, Linda and Steve enjoyed socializing together. She was fortunate to have a tight-knit group of trusted friends. Linda and Steve also took excellent care of their dogs, and later cats, and treated them like part of the family. In 1992, Linda and her family discovered a love for boating. They trailered to Grand Haven for several years, then eventually got their own place at the Grand Haven Yacht Club in 1997. Linda found so much joy in being out on the water, and she grew to be comfortable at the helm, always with her life jacket on. Boating also opened the door for her to gain many close friendships with others from the marina.

Never one to sit still for long, Linda pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She cared for their house and yard, down to the bushes and flowers. Linda enjoyed sewing, cooking, baking, and making jewelry. She was known for her sweet tooth and her love for trying new recipes. Linda admired Steve’s Corvette, so he got a Corvette for her as well early in their marraige. She was well-read and very knowledgeable in a variety of subjects, and she liked reading newspapers and magazines. Linda loved classic rock and jazz music. She diligently kept a calendar to organize her life, and she paid close attention to detail.

All who knew Linda Carlson will surely agree that she never took a single moment for granted. She was a steady source of strength and encouragement, even in the most difficult of times. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Linda always held her loved ones close. Her willingness to go above and beyond to serve others made her a nurturing presence in the lives of all those around her. Deeply missed, Linda will be forever loved by those who knew her best.

Linda L Carlson, age 71 of Walker, was released from her battle with Alzheimer’s on April 10, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Steve; their children (and grandchildren) Bret & Christa Carlson (Aliviah and Owen), Holly & Casey Omiljan (Carson and Cooper); her sisters, Susan Walsworth and Ruthie Walsworth (Peter Reagan); sister-in-law, Pat Peterson; nieces and nephew and many friends

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Lois Walsworth; her in-laws Gaylord and Viola Carlson; brother-in-laws Darrell Peterson and Richard Hannashey

A Celebration gathering will be held for immediate family and close friends. To read more about Linda, to share a memory or photo, or to sign her guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com