Colette K. Carlson

Colette Kathryn Carlson, 88, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024 at Aledo Health Care and Rehab Center in Aledo, Illinois.

Colette was born August 10, 1935 in Elgin, Illinois, the daughter of Gertrude Leona (Janaes) and Clifford William Reinert. After graduating from high school, Colette married Charles Arthur Carlson on February 19, 1955, in Elgin. Colette is survived by her husband of 69 years, Charles of Galesburg; one son, Theodore Carlson of Maple Park, Illinois; four daughters, Kathryn (Scott) Eller of Hampshire, Illinois, Laura (Earl) O’Kuly of Brownstown, Illinois, Virginia (Terence Johnson - dec.) Carlson of Baltimore, Maryland, and Marilyn (Michael) Wills of Dahinda, Illinois; nine grandchildren – Wren Eller, Keith Eller, Heather Mohler, Kara Wills, Kavanaugh Johnson, Charlie Johnson, Courtney Newell, Shelby Birtcher, Taylor Wills; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and two sisters.

Colette was adored throughout her life by her devoted, caring ‘Charlie!’, who she loved completely – they were like one. She was an example to her children; demonstrating the value of being independent and self-sufficient. Her confidence and willingness to take a chance and accept challenges will echo throughout future generations of her family. Colette worked in HR for many years, owning and operating her own consulting business prior to retiring. She is a published author of two non-fiction books involving the health trials she faced in her life. She enjoyed knitting, playing board games, especially Upwords and Mahjong, and was an amazing cook.

Cremation will be accorded. A private family gathering will be held. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.