David Bruce Carlson

David Bruce Carlson

Dave was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on March 8, 1942. He passed away on March 5, 2025 with his adoring family at his side just shy of his 83rd birthday.

Dave grew up in the Minneapolis area with a short stint as a southern California resident. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a history degree, Dave started as a management trainee at Dayton’s in downtown Minneapolis. He went on to have a 37-year career with the company, working for multiple iterations of the organization, including Hudson’s, Macy’s, Marshall Field’s and Target. In 2005, he retired from Target as POS Project Manager.

Dave was one of those people everyone liked. Easy to be with, mild mannered, kind, and gentle. He was hardworking and had an extensive knowledge of history and music. Everyone wanted him to be on their team for games of Trivial Pursuit. He also had a shrewd sense of humor and was a great mimic, especially of Donald Duck. Dave adored his family and was especially devoted to his grandchildren who lovingly knew him as Pa.

His glass was not just half-full, it was overflowing. Dave had an endless well of hope, positivity and courage. He was exceedingly grateful for the people in his life and made sure they knew it. You’d be hard pressed to find a better role model for how to live a good life.

Dave will be missed by many. He is survived by his wife, Georgia (Gegi), daughter, Katie Miller, son-in-law, Bob Berg, and grandchildren, Willa Berg, Thea Berg, Jack Miller, and Charlie Miller, brother-in-law, Bob Spence (Mardee), nephews, David Spence, John Spence (Marissa), niece, Anne Harris (Travis), grandnephew, Grant Harris, and many cousins. He is preceded in death by his doting parents, Stanley and Frances, loving sister, Judith (Judy), cousins, and some very dear friends. 

Dave had many close friends who were family. You know who you are. He also had a circle of wonderful doctors, nurses and other medical professionals who will always be in our debt for continually finding new ways to extend his wonderful life.

A private family service will be held in March. A celebration of Dave and his life will take place Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at 815 Fairview Avenue South, Saint Paul, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association are greatly appreciated.