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John Carlson Obituary
Age 94, of Chicago, Illinois passed away peacefully on November 28, 2021 at Congregational Home in Brookfield, Wisconsin.
John was born March 28, 1927. He was married to his wife and Senn High School sweetheart, Jane H. Carlson for 56 years.
John is survived by his two daughters: Kathel Ann (James P.) Brennan and Kay Jeannette (David D.) DeMerit - Jane Coolley Carlson (deceased) and John Coolley Carlson (deceased) - 3 grandchildren: Matthew M. (Danielle) Brennan, Daniel D. (Megan) DeMerit and Samuel C. DeMerit and 2 great-grandchildren: Lucille Brennan and Dax DeMerit.
John was a WWII Naval Aviation Cadet. He graduated from the University of Illinois and was a member of Alpha Tou Omega fraternity. He was a drum major in his high school band, his college band, and the U.S. Navy band. He was a real estate broker in Chicago from 1949 to 2012, director of the Building Managers Association, the Chicago Real Estate Board, and the Union League of Chicago. John was president of the Realty Club, Realtors 40 Club, Property Club, and Junior Real Estate Board. He was Executive Vice President of Aldis & Co., a 100-year-old firm that developed the Monadnock, Rookery, Marquette, Monroe, Champlain, Brooks and many other Loop office buildings. He also managed the Chicago Temple Building for the last 20 years of his career.
John was a passionate speed skater, cross country skier, squash player, and golf player and enjoyed his membership at Westmoreland County Club and the Union League Club of Chicago. He was a deacon and an elder in the Presbyterian and Episcopal churches and was Life Trustee of the Boys & Girls Club.
A private burial will be held for family in Newman, Illinois at Fairfield Cemetery across from the Carlson family homestead.
The Carlson family would like to extend our gratitude to the staff of Congregational Home and Legacy Hospice in Brookfield, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Boys & Girls Club or a charity of your choice. Krause Funeral Home assisted the family arrangements.
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Memories and Condolences
for John Carlson
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4 Entries
Maria
February 8, 2023
Mr. Carlson was one of realtors at a real estate company where I was hired as a receptionist fresh out of college and while attending Computer Graphic Design Classes at The Art Institute of Chicago. We produced a poster themed "Innovation" and he encouragingly hung it in the reception area at work.
I never knew all the details of his life while working with him, but after reading this obituary I can understand why he was one of the most respectable/professional men that I ever worked with. He was a true gentleman.
When his elegant wife came to visit him once, I could see the love and respect he had for his wife. To me, he had the demeanor of a modern-day Cary Grant.
I also recall him bragging about his daughter who had recently appeared in a commercial and was pursuing an acting career.
Before I left the company, he treated me for a lunch and personal tour of the Union League Club and when he went to work with the Chicago Temple Building, he invited me for a personal tour there, but in my youthful ignorance, starting my new career with the City kept me busy and I regret not taking time to go on that tour. Too young to realize what an honor that would have been to accept his offer.
I hope to meet you again in heaven one day Mr. Carlson.
Joe Nelligan
December 19, 2021
John was a dear friend and mentor. He always looked out for others in building management and was instrumental in helping me get involved with The Property Club. After we both retired, I really enjoyed the time we spent together golfing in Naples. I´m very sorry for your loss.
Joe Nelligan
Patrick McGonagle
December 7, 2021
to the Carlson Family my prayers and condolences on the loss of Mr Carlson
i worked in one of his buildings for 40 years
a wonderful man!! will be missed by many
gary heller
December 5, 2021
my condolences to the girls and kids, will miss him and had many, many good times and lots of laughs at the house.
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