Ronald Edwin Carlson

Anyone who was blessed to know Ronald Carlson will surely remember him as a very kind, gentle and generous man who truly cared about others. Ron began eternal life on Saturday, December 19, 2015 after fighting a long and very courageous battle with many health issues. He loved life and had a passion and appreciation for the finest things life had to offer. Whether treating family and friends to a very fine dinner out or to a theatrical production or the symphony, Ron always made sure that the experience was memorable. Ron's life began on August 16, 1933 in Denver, Colorado. He was the oldest child and only son of Rudolph and Norma Carlson. His two wonderful sisters (Barbara and Phyllis), who were born shortly after Ron remember him fondly as a loving brother, always willing to teach and tease while setting an example of how to treat and respect people. Ron graduated from South High School in Denver and the University of Denver. After serving our country as a 1st Lieutenant in the Air Force, he began a very rewarding teaching career at Gove Junior High School in Denver. During his 12 year tenure as a teacher, he not only made a significant impact on many of his students, he formed life-long relationships with some of them. These relationships lasted throughout his life, a tribute to his fine character and appreciation for meaningful friendships. He served as President of the Denver Classroom Teachers Association, followed by a term as President of the Colorado Education Association. He then embarked on a long and rewarding 38 year career with the Colorado Education Association, where he served as Assistant Executive Director for the majority of those years. His colleagues benefited from a wonderful manager, mentor and friend and the organization was strengthened by his leadership, commitment and loyalty. He retired from CEA in 2008. Ron was also involved in the community through various non-profit organizations. He served as President of Colfax on the Hill and was a board member for Young Americans Bank. Throughout his life, Ron was respectful to everyone with whom he associated. A great listener who gave sage advice when asked will be remembered in the hearts of many family and friends. Those who had the privilege to know Ron have been blessed beyond words. There is a void now that he is gone but wonderful memories will bring solace and comfort forever. Ron is survived by his two sisters, Barbara (Kent) Johnson of Victoria, MN and Phyllis (Dean) Vettrus of Moscow, ID, niece Sandy (Joe) Badalucco and two nephews, Michael Johnson and Andy (Patty) Vettrus. He also leaves behind two life-long friends who were his students at Gove Jr. High, Dave and Jill Heap and a godson, Matthew Heap, all of Denver. A memorial service to celebrate Ron's life will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at Horan & McConaty, at 11150 E. Dartmouth Avenue, Aurora, CO at 11:30. A luncheon will follow at the HeartLight Center, adjacent to Horan and McConaty for all who wish to attend. Those who wish to make a donation in honor and memory of Ron may do so to Augustana Lutheran Church Foundation at 5000 E. Alameda Ave, Denver, CO or The HeartLight Center at 11350 E. Dartmouth Avenue, Aurora, CO 80014. The HeartLight Center is a non-profit foundation whose mission is to provide grief guidance and support for the loss of a loved one. Please click on ""Sign Guestbook"" to share memories of Ron and messages of condolence with his family.