Lance Eric Carlson
With a heart full of gratitude and sorrow, I announce the passing of my father, Lance Carlson, on August 27, 2026. He was 67 years old.
For most of his adult life, Lance spent his time giving back to the community through his work with at-risk youth and sharing his love of the outdoors along the way. He was passionate about gardening and knew all the scientific names for the plants he cultivated. He loved reading and learning about our planet, astronomy, and history. Any chance he could, he would go explore – by canoe, on foot, by truck – he loved being outside and appreciating the world around him. This is something he shared with others as much as he could. He used to say “Ain’t life grand” no matter what he was experiencing. His positive spirit, sense of humor, and persistence will be carried on through those that knew him.
Lance is survived by his daughter Lindsey (Darren), granddaughter, siblings David and Kerry, and nephews Matthew, Matthew, and Allen. He was preceded in death by his mother Dorothy, father Elmer, and brothers Mark and Craig.
A celebration of life will be held on November 14, 2026 at one of his favorite outdoor spaces near Poplar Bluff, MO. If you knew him and would like to celebrate him with us, please reach out to his daughter Lindsey at lcmemorial2026@gmail.com for details.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ozark Riverways Foundation: https://www.
A great tribute. He lives on in our hearts. Life is grand, indeed. He was right.
Lance was such a gentle soul, and his positive outlook was contagious. Wish we’d been able to get to know him better, but we’re grateful for the short time we did have. It’s inspiring that even in his darkest time, he found joy: holding his sweet granddaughter, spending time with his daughter, and in conversations with the staff and residents he just met. He made the world a better place for those who knew him.
RIP sweet Lance. Thanks for the memories at Shady Pines. ;). Sharing icecream and the time outside in the yard was priceless. You were a gentle, kind-hearted soul who loved your family. Your favorite expression when talking about Nora or Lindsey was excellent. Thanks for the memories, dear friend. See you on yhe other side one day. 🙏✌️❤️
so sorry to here this my heart is breaking the one thing of many of memories of lance he was the left side linebacker and i was the right side linebacker with vic ortega in the middle we were a team no not just a team we were family. so many memories which i hold so dear and close to my heart and will never let go. so sorry to the family for ur loss
Lance Was A Very Good Friend in 11th and 12th grade. He Help Me Through It All! I moved and lost touch! He was The Best!