Mark S. Carlson

SHIRLEY- Mark S. Carlson, 65, of Shirley, died Friday morning, February 19, 2021 in St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton. Mark was born in Ayer, on November 1, 1955, a son of the late Robert and Kathleen and (Landry) Carlson and grew up in Ayer graduating from Ayer High School in 1974. Shortly after graduating, Mark went to work at R.M.P. Parts Rebuilders formerly of Fitchburg and later in Marlborough and was a loyal employee there his entire career of 43 years, retiring in 2017. Mark leaves his one and only love, his wife of 45 years, Margaret “Peggy” J. (Traquair) Carlson of Shirley; a son, Justin T. Carlson, and his wife Tanya of Fitchburg; a daughter Megan C. Ritter, and her husband De’Von of Fitchburg; He also leaves his sister, Diana Gendron, and her husband Mickey of Shirley; his nephew Kyle Bouchey and his wife Jessica and great-nephew Logan of Fitchburg. He leaves behind his beloved in-laws of Boothbay Harbor and Tenants Harbor, ME. These are places he treasured and loved to frequently visit. Mark is also predeceased by a brother Dana Carlson who has two living daughters/nieces, Dena Smith and Denise Carlson of Maine. Mark enjoyed life with his five grandchildren, Alexis, Kylen, George, Jaliyah, and James. You could often find him driving around his “Papa Bus” with all in tow, taking on the responsibilities of raising all his “minions”. Many hours were spent listening to old school music, watching classic movies and shows teaching the grandkids about life before their time. During the warmer months, he enjoyed many hours camping with his sweetheart and little cherubs. He taught the grandchildren how to fish, swim, golf, ride a bike all the while offering them witty comebacks and jokes to never be repeated. Mark was a car enthusiast and an avid cribbage player and loved taking on any opponent who was willing to challenge him. One of his favorite cribbage opponents was his father, Robert, who taught him all he knew about the game. He had hours upon hours of “useless” trivia that he willingly shared at any moment. Mark was also a great conversationalist and could strike up a conversation with anyone whether he knew them personally or not. Mark committed his whole life to being a family man and he opened his door to anyone who needed a good laugh, a safe place to stay, or just a stop along their own journey. His legacy will be carried on through his greatest joy and accomplishments, his children and grandchildren. “A lifetime of gratitude isn’t enough to repay our father for everything he has done for us and his grandbabies. He will be forever missed”...Justin & Megan “Our 45 years together has been the most incredible journey. Every love story is beautiful, but ours is my favorite!”...Peggy A time of visitation for Mark and his Father who died March 4, 2022 will be held Saturday, March 12, 2022 from 2-4 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Road (Rte 2A) Ayer. A time of prayer and reflection will be offered at 4 PM. For additional information or to leave an online condolence, please visit their website at www.andersonfuneral.com. \

Tributes

Mark S. Carlson

November 1, 1955 - February 19, 2021