Shirley A. (VanMeter) Carlson

Shirley A. Carlson, 94, of Galesburg, IL, passed away at 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at Allure of Lake Storey, Galesburg, IL.

She was born on June 5, 1928 in Streator, IL, the daughter of Clarence and Bessie (Hammock) VanMeter.  Shirley was raised and educated in Streator.

Shirley married Russell H. Carlson, Sr. of April 22, 1951 in South Beloit, IL; he preceded her in death on January 15, 2018.

Shirley worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Coveny in Streator, IL and Dr. Dayton in Galesburg, IL.  She later worked as a receptionist at Louis Lakis Ford in Galesburg, IL.  Shirley also was a caregiver to many in their time of need.  She enjoyed flowers, horses, and farm life.  Shirley had a strong Christian faith and attended several area churches.  She enjoyed working on puzzles and was an excellent roller skater.  Most of all, she loved to spend time with her family, especially her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving Shirley are her children, Dinalee (David) Lunardi of Galesburg, IL, Russell H. (Julia) Carlson, Jr. of Kirkwood, IL, Derek R. Carlson of Galesburg, IL, Lawrence D. (Janet) Carlson of Viola, IL, and Marilee (Allen L. Jr.) Meyer of Abingdon, IL. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Lee (Donna) Lunardi, Milla Hess, Lesa (Kevin) Schlatman, Haley (Malouta) Nzinga, Nicholas (Krystal) Carlson, Ryan Carlson, Amber (Randy) Veys, Jessica (Brandon) Bull, David Carlson, Elisabeth (Chris) Wessels; sixteen great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.  Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 66 years, Russell H. Carlson, Sr.; her siblings, Gerald VanMeter, Beulah Bush, Velma Gmelich, one grandchild, one great grandchild; and special brother-in-law, Roy Carlson.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring and more information will be announced at a later date.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL, is in charge of the arrangements.