Warren L. Carlson, 81, of Rockford died Thursday, January 9, 2014 after a long illness. Born January 17, 1932 in Rockford, son of Algot and Florence (Westberg) Carlson. Graduate of Stillman Valley High School class of 1949. Married Roberta Pearson on March 24, 1951, they were happily married for 62 years. Warren was formerly employed at Sundstrand, retiring in 1980 after 30 years. He owned and operated Warren Carlson Photography for 40 years doing wedding and family portraits. He and Roberta were snowbirds in Arizona for 20 years where he enjoyed playing baseball and water volleyball. He also gave computer lessons to seniors. Warren was well known for his boats, snowmobiles, Apple computers and his monthly Sundstrand retiree news letter he sent out to over 400 people. He was a diehard Bears and Cubs fan. Member of Covenant Valley Church. Proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Survived by wife Roberta; son Ken Carlson, daughter Pam (Ray) DeVore; grandchildren, Stacy (Fletcher) Smith, Chad (Donna ) DeVore, Nicole (Brian) Bogart; great-grandchildren, Fletch and Chelsea Smith, Samantha and Sarabeth Bogart and Autumn Hufford. Preceded in death by his parents and daughter Diana. Memorial Gathering and Celebration of Life Saturday, January 18, 2014 from 2-4 p.m. at Valley Covenant Church, 103 South Maple; Stillman Valley. Cremation rites will be accorded. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family, to share a memory or condolence, visit www.graceFH.com .