of Little Rock, AR

December 10, 1948 - February 9, 2026

Michael B. Carlson was born on December 10, 1948, in Carthage, Missouri, and passed away on February 9, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
He graduated from Siloam Springs High School (class of '67) and earned a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville (class of '71). He was a proud member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.
After graduation, Michael moved west and settled in Laguna Beach, California. After a stint with the United States Postal Service, he built a long and successful career in sales, focusing on food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical chemicals. He held positions with several companies in California, serving major clients such as McDonald's, Dreyer's, Anheuser-Busch, Lawry's, Lee Kum Kee, Cacique, and many others. He also spent time in the mid 1980's working for Aspen Ski Co., reflecting his love for downhill skiing and the mountains.
He had a deep passion for travel. His adventures took him around the globe. He held a special fondness for Europe and loved travelling on the Eurail trains (when he wasn't hitchhiking). He cherished the unique and rich cultures of the world, but his heart was always in his ancestral Scandinavia. Michael was a connector. He forged lasting relationships with his ''Viking Family'' in Bergen, Norway, especially Terje & Hildegunn Midtun, their children, and grandchildren.
A lifelong enthusiast of the creative arts, Michael adored all genres of music, but the sounds of the '60s and '70s were his go-to. And he loved the movies. A favorite pastime was attending opening-night premieres of new releases and sharing those experiences with others. Michael also delighted in all things sushi - particularly tuna tataki - and appreciated the simple joys of good food, storytelling, and good company. In his later years, Michael faced many challenges, yet he took hope in the promises and grace of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Above all, Michael cherished his family deeply and took great pride in their accomplishments. He enthusiastically shared news of their achievements with friends and business acquaintances. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nelse and Marilyn Carlson; and his sister, Deborah Carlson.
Michael is survived by three brothers: Steven Carlson (Donna) of Little Rock, Arkansas, Richard Carlson of Paramount, CA and Mark Carlson (Angela) of Jacksonville, Florida; his nephews: Chad Carlson (Amy) of Little Rock, Arkansas, BJ Carroll of Winslow, Arkansas and Alex Carlson (Meagan) of Los Angeles, California; and his favorite niece: Jennifer Thomason (Ben) of Durham, NC. He was especially ecstatic about his grandnephews and grandnieces: Addie Thomason, Emily Jane Thomason, Julia Carlson, Blake Carlson, and his ''Little Vikings'' Axel Carlson and Penelope Carlson. His zest for life, adventure, and loved ones touched so many others including numerous extended family members across the country. Valhalla!
A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on February 18, 2026, followed by a celebration of life service at 2:00 p.m. at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church (Local Missions Ministries), the Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation (Arkansas Gamma-Chi Chapter Fund), or the Razorback Foundation.

Sign Guestbook

2 Condolence(s)