Elmer Ernest Carlson, Jr., 69, of Allegan, MI passed away Friday, October 25, 2024 at his home surrounded by family.  Born September 25, 1955 in South Haven, he was the son of the late Elmer Ernest Carlson, Sr. and Marie (Dubas) Carlson and was the husband of Marlene Marie (Sumerix) Carlson.  Elmer had worked for 26 years for Lifesavers where he had been a maintenance supervisor and then for a time at Perrigo before finally retiring.  There wasn't much that he couldn't fix, especially when it came to small engines.  Elmer enjoyed the outdoors taking walks in the woods and spending time tinkering with projects in his garage.  He was deeply faithful and was currently working on his ninth time reading his Bible from cover to cover.  Elmer had a wonderful and unique sense of humor that allowed him to find joy most anywhere.  His greatest joy, though, came from the time he spent with his grandchildren, which he always cherished.

In addition to his wife, Marlene, Elmer is survived by his children, Lisa Marie (Andrew Charles) Waanders and Nathan Ernest (Jennifer) Carlson; siblings, Maxine Edwards and William (Joan) Root; and grandchildren, Kalynn Carlson, Collin Carlson, Madelyn Waanders, Maci Carlson, Abigail Waanders and Blakely Carlson.

The family will receive friends at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home and interment will follow in Millgrove Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Wild Whiskers Animal Rescue, 7021 W. Main Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009; or Allegan County Animal Shelter, 2293 33rd Street, Allegan, MI 49010.