Roger W. Carlson

Roger W. Carlson, age 75, of Arapahoe, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at his home. He decided it was time for a new adventure. He was a master of “one liners”. One of his many favorites was “Close only counts in horse shoes, hand grenades and slow dancing” followed by a wink.

On June 26, 1950, Roger was born to Byron and Jacqueline Carlson in Milford Nebraska. Roger was raised in North Platte NE and graduating from NPHS in 1968. Roger worked for the UPRR for a couple of years until he enlisted into the United States Army in 1970 serving as a Military Intelligence Officer at Fort Mead Maryland. After serving in the military, Roger was employed in the IT industry until his retirement.

Roger had a passion for cars, whether it be racing cars, showing cars, or just cruising in his yellow Corvette. Grabbing a good book or catching a Big Red game on the TV was a huge part of Roger’s life as well. He loved to travel and experience new places. Roger was an excellent chef and loved every minute of cooking that special recipe, although he never really mastered the recipe for malted milk balls better known as “Whoppers” that he loved so much. Roger’s love for dogs was unbelievable, he would have rescued them all if he could. His last rescue dog and greatest companion was “Dork” for the last 12 years.

Roger moved to Arapahoe NE in 2015 were he made many friend and enjoyed visiting with them every chance he got.

Roger is survived by his daughter Carrie Lyn Carlson of Baltimore, MD, brother Ron and wife Kay Carlson of Portland, TX, brother Russ and wife Deb Carlson of Arapahoe, NE as well as several other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Bryon and Jacqueline Carlson, his grandparents and several aunts and uncles.

Feel free to dress casual and wear your favorite Nebraska shirt or racecar shirt in honor of Roger.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Arapahoe American Legion or Burton's Bend VFW would be greatly appreciated.