Raymond D. Carlson of Auburn, formerly of 21 Conway St., Worcester, died Wednesday, March 22, after a lengthy illness.

He leaves his loving wife of 57 years, Mildred E. (Wennerstrand) Carlson and two sons, Robert Carlson of Las Vegas, NV and Ronald Carlson and his wife Andrea of Sturbridge. He also leaves a grandson, Matthew Carlson and his wife Molly of North Brookfield. He leaves many nieces and nephews as well. He was predeceased by his brother Paul and sister Marion Weber both of Ohio.

He was born in Worcester on September 1, 1922 to Mary (Lonergan) Carlson Ahlstrom and Carl D. Carlson. He lived most of his life in Worcester before moving to Auburn 19 years ago. He was educated in Worcester and attended vocational school where he learned the trade of carpentry. A member of the National Guard, he served in the United States Army as a member of the 181st Infantry Division in the European Theatre of Operations during WWII. Upon his return from the service he worked as a union carpenter for several Worcester County construction companies working on important projects at a number of major Worcester institutions. He retired from Local 107 in 1984 and was awarded a lifetime membership in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. He was a past member of the American Legion Post #318 in Quinsigamond Village. He belonged to the Olive Branch of Masons in Millbury. He was a member of Bethlehem Covenant Church.

Ray enjoyed traveling with his wife to various parts of the country. He spent many happy summers in Kennebunk, Maine and warm winters in Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota, Florida. He loved spending time with his family.