Bruce Allen Carlson, 67, was born in Plattsburgh, New York, May 13, 1951. 

Carlson graduated from Paramus High School, Paramus, New Jersey, in 1969. He attended Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts.  

After college, he lived in Burlington, Vermont, Pearisburg, Virginia, St. Augustine, Florida, and settled in Landrum, South Carolina, in 1989, where he resided until his passing.

During high school and college, Carlson was a well-known talented athlete in football and track and field, earning many awards and setting records in discus.

Carlson was a master craftsman in woodworking and tile setting.  He was actively involved with his ceramic tile installing business in the local area from 1989-2010. 

He also was an accomplished vocalist and musician. He performed locally at the Silver’s Edge in Tryon, North Carolina, from 2007-2008 on a weekly basis.

Carlson was a track and field throws coach at Polk County High School during the years 1999 through 2007.

He had a deep appreciation for nature and learning about ancient cultures. He passed along this enthusiasm through teaching others.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Carlson; sons, Jordan Bruce Carlson and daughter-in-law Michelle Carlson of Elkton, Maryland, and Justin Nels Carlson of Lexington, Kentucky; mother, Arline Carlson of Paramus, New Jersey; brother, David Carlson of Paramus, New Jersey; sister, Gail McGee of Manchester, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Alexis Carlson and Bradley Carlson; and his beloved pets, Scout and Ranger.

He was a warm, friendly person who had a kind heart and never knew a stranger.  He was a devoted husband and dedicated and encouraging father and grandfather. He will be sadly missed and remembered fondly by all whose paths he crossed.

Memorials in his memory may be made to Foothills Humane Society, P.O. Box 126, Tryon, NC  28782.

Condolences may be left at pettyfuneralhome.com.

Petty Funeral Home & Crematory, Landrum