Clayton Gene Carlson, 86, Bismarck, North Dakota, passed away Friday, April 26, 2024, at Twin Town Villa in Breckenridge, Minnesota. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Bismarck Funeral Home, Bismarck, with visitation one hour before the service. Full military honors will be held at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.
Clayton was born in Bottineau, North Dakota on September 10, 1937, to Clifford and Jennie Carlson. The family moved to a farm outside of Washburn, North Dakota when Clayton was young, where he attended Washburn Public School, graduating in 1955.
After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army, serving overseas for 2 years before receiving an honorable discharge. He continued to be part of the Army Reserves until 1975, where he rose to the rank SP-5. Clayton married Martha Hansen of Wilton, North Dakota on August 1, 1959. They made their home in Bismarck where they had their daughter, Karen.
Clayton spent his career with the North Dakota Highway Department until his retirement in 1992. He enjoyed his time with family and friends. He was also active with softball, bowling, hunting, fishing, and golf.
In retirement, Clayton and Martha traveled to different parts of the country visiting family, sight-seeing and stopping at a few casinos along the way. They like to take in grandkids’ activities, particularly birthday parties and sporting events. They were members of the Elks, Eagles and AMVETS.
Clayton lost the love of his life on October 20, 2015, after 56 years of marriage.
Clayton will be greatly missed by his daughter, Karen (Jim) Albrecht, his grandchildren, Josh (Jenna) Albrecht, Taylor Albrecht, Allie (Luke) Amsbaugh, Nate (Sydney) Albrecht, Reed (Michelle) Albrecht, his eight great grandchildren, along with his close friends and relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Jennie Carlson, his wife, Martha (Hansen) Carlson, grandson Jake Robert Albrecht, his sister Jeanette Franklund (Ray), and several brother and sisters-in-law.
The family extends their appreciation to the staff at the Leach Home, Twin Town Villa and CHI Hospice for their support and care for Clayton.