Captain Edward Arthur Carlson, 84, passed away peacefully at Mayo Hospital in Eau Claire, WI, on November 8, 2024. Born on September 4, 1940, he left an indelible mark on his family, friends, and all who knew him.

A proud graduate of Regis High School, Edward went on to earn a BS degree in Industrial Technology from Stout State University in Menomonie, WI, in 1962. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served with distinction from 1962 to 1982. Upon completing Officer Training School at Lackland AFB, Texas, he was commissioned as an officer and deployed to Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. A proud veteran, Major Carlson received multiple honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement or heroism during arial flight, the Air Medal with three devices, and Silver Pilot Wings.  He was entrusted with the extraordinary task of flying the first pandas from China to the United States. Ed was also one of the pilots for Air Force 2 during the Nixon era.

After retiring from the Air Force, Edward pursued a career as a commercial pilot. From 1982 to 1985, he flew for South Pacific Island Airways. Later, from 1986 to 2000, he flew for America West Airlines.

Edward was also an avid cyclist, known for his passion for biking. He owned more than a dozen bicycles and made multiple cross-country trips, dedicating countless hours to the open road. In retirement, he split his time between summers in Eau Claire and winters in Hawaii.  He was an active member of St. Olaf Catholic Church in Eau Claire.

Edward is remembered with love by his sister, Theresa (Russ) DeBoer, his sister-in-law, Patricia Carlson, and his extended family: Yucong Nikki Fan, his Chinese family; and Uta McLin, his Samoan family. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Andrew Carlson, and his brothers, John and Stephen Carlson.

His generosity, adventurous spirit, and unwavering kindness have left a enduring impression on all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, November 22, 2024 at St. Olaf Catholic Church in Eau Claire, with visitation held from 9:30 AM until the time of service at the church.

Memorials may be designated in Ed's name to St. Olaf Catholic Church, Catholic Charities Hawaii or to Regis Catholic School Foundation.