Carin Carlson, 98 of Rockford, went to be with her Lord and Savior at 6:45 pm on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born October 8, 1911 in Stockholm, Sweden to Axel and Anna (Colme') Larsson. Married John Carlson in Stockholm, Sweden April 9, 1933 and then moved to their farm in Rud, Frändefors, Sweden. Five children were born to them there. Carin was a very capable and talented woman. She had a lot to learn on the farm, especially coming from the big city. She made everything from scratch; looking after animals, sewing children's clothes, and even acting as veterinarian having to sew up an injured cow. She was a wonderful cook and housekeeper, taking care of her home and yard until she was 96 with the help of grandson Paul. She was famous for her Swedish cookies and pancakes, which she served up to anyone who would visit her home. In 1950 the family emigrated to Mosinee, Wisconsin, then moving to Rockford. Carin's life revolved around her family, she greatly enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was very happy when her great-great-granddaughter Chloe was born June 17, 2008, giving her five generations. She played the piano in the Swedish Sunday School class at the First Evangelical Covenant Church for many years, where she was a member since 1951. In 1952 she formed, with her children the St. Lucia pageant group, performing in Swedish at different Swedish Lucia functions for several years. She and John retired to Florida for a few years and then moved back to Rockford. She was active until she fell in early October, visiting restaurants with her children that week. She had a wonderful, healthy life and was mobile until the end. She was always the Rock of the family, always strong when others were weak. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Survived by daughters, Astrid (Alfredo) Esteban of Honolulu, HI, Gunnel Stewart of Machesney Park; son Ingvar (Jean) Carlson of Rockford; grandchildren, Debra (David) Wilberg, Victor Stewart, Brian Esteban, Douglas Esteban, Paul (Megan) Carlson, Mark Carlson; great-grandchildren, Tennille (Jason) Cain, Erik Wilberg, Kiona Esteban; great-great-granddaughter Chloe Cain; long time family friend, Dennis Eksten. Preceded in death by her parents, husband John, and children Ebba and Sonja. The family would like to thank caretakers Alma and Maria for their faithful care giving and to OSF nurses for their excellent and kind care.
Private funeral services will be held. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 South Alpine Road, Rockford is assisting the family with arrangements. To express condolences online, please visit graceFH.com.