John Carlson “grew up” at Minnehaha Academy, attending Sunday school there when just a child. He went on to graduate in 1953, and came back to serve the school in 2003 as custodian. All four of John’s children also graduated from the Academy. John loved everyone he met, and couldn’t wait to show people around his beloved Minnehaha Academy. He left his mark on many students, neighbors, family and friends. John did not survive the gas explosion at Minnehaha Academy on August 2, 2017.  He died in a place he loved. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Barbara, children, Lynnda (James) Nelson, Beth Ann (Dennis) Morgan, Kayla/Lisa Carlson & James (Himanee) Gupta-Carlson; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

To help honor John Carlson