Mary Henrietta Carlson

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Henrietta Carlson, who peacefully left this world on October 5, 2023, in San Diego, California, surrounded by family.

She was born on January 21, 1937, in Starbuck, Minnesota, to parents Otto and Agnes Byhre, and was raised alongside her brother Otto Byhre and her twin sister, Marvel Walmann. After the Korean War, Tom Lee was brought into the Byhre family from South Korea.

Mary's journey through life was marked by resilience, strength, and a commitment to her family. In 1988, she bid farewell to her beloved husband, Roger Carlson. Together, they had shared a life filled with love, respect and wonderful memories. She also cared for her son David Carlson during a prolonged illness until his passing in 2020.

A high school cheerleader, Mary was nominated for Homecoming Queen during her time in college. She played the French Horn and attained a Bachelor's degree in Home Economics from Augsburg College. After college, she would land a number of jobs, from District Manager to Office Manager to Accounts Payable in both government and private industry.

She and Roger moved from Minnesota to California when their kids were very young. A strong sense of community and faith led them to Santa Barbara Grace Lutheran Church, where Mary sang in the choir and together they made enduring friendships with fellow parishioners. Mary was also in the Santa Barbara "Newcomers" Club, welcoming others to the community.

Mary's independent spirit and fierce competitiveness were evident in her passion for Bridge, Bingo, and even playing the slot machines. Win or lose though, Mary remained graceful, and her sportsmanship was an inspiration to all who knew her. In addition to those hobbies, Mary was a skilled knitter, crafting scarves for both friends and most recently for the people of Ukraine, a testament to her generous heart.

Her involvement in the lives of her grandkids was boundless, attending dance recitals, birthdays, graduations, and other milestones, never missing an opportunity to show her love and support. Holidays were particularly cherished, with family gatherings filled with warmth and laughter. Later in life, Mary relocated to San Diego, where she enjoyed estate sale shopping on weekends with her daughter Kim, always on the hunt for great deals, beautiful clothes, and jewelry.

Mary was always very proud of her Norwegian heritage. She will be remembered not only for her strength but for the love, laughter, and joy she brought into the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience.

She is survived by her daughter Kim, son-in-law Kevin, and her cherished grandchildren, Carl Ethan La Rue and Emily Rose La Rue, ages 24 and 22, respectively.