Obituary of James A. Carlson

JAMES A CARLSON JR. (JIMMY) fell in eternal sleep with his family by his side on May 18, 2016. Jimmy passed away at Riverview Hospital, Wisconsin Rapids after a recent emergency admit for complications of a prior medical condition. Jimmy was born on October 11, 1972 in Milwaukee Wisconsin to James A Carlson Sr. (deceased) and Maria Carlson (Plover). Jimmy spent most of his youth in Mauston WI and moved as an adult to Necedah and Wisconsin Rapids. Jimmy was the youngest of the family and was very loved and protected by his older siblings. He was a very sweet and well behaved child and grew up to be a very loving man. He was diagnosed with multiple mental health disorders at 16 years old and from that point on; he had many struggles. He lived in various facilities and homes throughout his life. He eventually moved to a group setting in Necedah "Evergreen Manor" which truly was his home for many years. He resided at the time of his death for a short period of time in Wisconsin Rapids at "Pathways" and enjoyed his room, housemates and staff very much. Jimmy was dealt a "bad" hand in his life and was never able to drive a car, work, own a house, and most other things we all take for granted yet he NEVER complained about his plight and found pleasure in simple things. He relied on the continued love and support of his family and his belief in God. He had a great love for basketball, being outside, lifting weights, Van Halen and most importantly his family. He often showed off his muscles and his tan and had a vast collection of Van Halen CDs. One of his prized memories was the Alpine Valley Van Halen concert he attended with his sister Cindy in the early 90's. He also found great joy in spending time with his sister Betsy as they had a great bond since their youth. His special talks and time spent with his brother Matt were cherished. His favorite person in the whole world however (besides David Lee Roth) was his Mom! She and he had a loving friendship like nobody else and Jimmy loved her visits and phone calls immensely. Besides Jimmy's mental health issues; June 2015 he had an event which caused two cardiac arrests, loss of his stomach and his ability to walk, eat normally, and speak above a whisper. Despite all of the trials that he was given; he remained happy, positive, and faithful to God. He is a true role model to all. Jimmy will not be forgotten and will be forever in the hearts and memories of all those who loved him. A special than you to the Riverview Hospital Staff, Pathways Staff and all the loving family and friends that stopped to say "I love you." A special note to Amaya for "nursing" him and giving him comfort in the end. Jimmy is survived by a Son-Tyler James Halida, Mother-Maria Carlson, Brother-Matt (Vi) Kelly, Sisters -Cindy (Sean) Sarver, Betsy-Jo (Chris) Herrmann and Jami (Jason) Holsapple. Also survived by Nieces and Nephews-Dana Olson, Jonah Herrmann, Moriah Olson, Ethan Herrmann, Payton O'Hearn, Joshua Herrmann, Amaya O'Hearn and Emily and Anna Sarver and Great Niece-Parker Philipp. There will be a private celebration of Jimmy's life at a future date. If interested in honoring Jimmy's memory; you may donate to the group home Pathways, 2121 Cindy Court, Wisconsin Rapids WI 53948.