Brian Carlson

Brian Carlson, born May 6, 1972, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, passed away on August 1, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and joy. Brian was 52 years old.

A proud graduate of Pine City High School, Brian played golf and hockey throughout his life and then attended St. Cloud State University. From childhood through his adult years, Brian was deeply involved in hockey and playing in the Lucky Pucks men’s league . He took immense pride in coaching his son AJ’s summer hockey team. His enthusiasm for the sport was matched only by his unwavering support as AJ’s number one hockey fan.

Brian’s professional life was marked by a deep commitment to his work in construction. He spent a decade working at Lennar before continuing his career at Trammell Crow. Brian’s dedication and skill in his trade were evident to all who knew him. He was known for his humility, loyalty, and the genuine kindness he brought to his work and personal relationships.

Brian cherished time spent at the family cabin on Big Sandy Lake. He enjoyed being on the water in the summers and duck and deer hunting with his family each fall. He had a profound love for pheasant hunting, often accompanied by his faithful dog Gunner and his beloved son AJ. 

Happily married for 13 years, Brian was a devoted and loving husband to Amy. They shared a true love story, always affectionate, caring and enjoying the things they loved to do together as a couple and as a family with AJ.

Brian had a special bond with his son AJ who he shared his passion for hunting, hockey, golf, skiing and especially pull tabs. The love Brian had for AJ was immeasurable! He was also a proud and loving grandpa to Hallie and Luke Levine, affectionately known as Grandpa B. 

Brian's zest for life extended beyond hunting. He was an avid traveler and scuba diver, loved skiing, snowmobiling, and boating. Being on the water was a special joy for him. His appreciation for outdoor activities and adventures was matched by his enthusiasm for music, with Kenny Chesney, Kid Rock, and Jimmy Buffett being among his favorites.

In addition to his many interests, Brian was an ardent supporter of the Minnesota Wild, enjoyed pulling tabs, and had a fondness for playing craps. His vibrant personality and passion for life made every experience richer and more meaningful.

Brian is survived by his devoted wife Amy, their 12-year-old son AJ, and Amy’s daughter Arielle (Adam) Levine. He is also survived by his parents, John and Judy Carlson; his brothers, Erik (Nichole) Carlson and Danny (Shannon) Carlson; his mother and father-in-law, Greg and Penny Wiener; his sister-in-law Patty (Jake) Allen; his sister-in-law Heather Wiener; and his brother-in-law Brian (Nikki) Wiener, sister-in-laws Kristen Nappin and Brittany Nappin and grandchildren Hallie and Luke Levine. He is further survived by several aunts and uncles, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Brian was preceded in death by his grandparents Karl and Renee Carlson, George and Evelyn Manderud, and his sister Julie Carlson.

Brian Carlson was a man of great character—humble, loyal, generous, and genuinely kind. His spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. His presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his legacy will be carried forward with love and remembrance.

There will be a celebration of Brian’s life in Colorado and Minnesota.

The Colorado Celebration of Life will be held on August 14th from 5-8 PM at the Ridge Golf Course 1414 Castle Pines Parkway Castle Pines, CO 80108

The Minnesota Celebration of Life will be held on August 29th from 4-7 PM at the Pine County Fairgrounds Event Center 707 1st Ave NW, Pine City, MN 55063 

Rest in peace, Brian. You will be missed more than words can express.