John Robert Carlson, 58, of Denver CO passed away on February 24, 2014.

John was born on December 4, 1955 in Aberdeen, SD to Melvin and Bertha (Wolf) Carlson. He attended St Mary's Catholic School and graduated from Aberdeen Roncalli High School in 1974. He then attended Northern State College for one year.

John began his restaurant experiences in Aberdeen and later managed fast food places in Bismarck, ND, Fargo, ND, and Madison, WI. He then moved to Florida and took an interest in plumbing. He went on to become a licensed Journeyman Plumber in Florida. After his third hurricane he decided to move to Lakewood, CO and became a licensed Journeyman Plumber in Colorado.

John enjoyed the outdoors, fishing in the ocean, gardening, biking, skiing and hunting.

His cheery disposition was a welcome sight to many friends and business associates. (We lovingly call him a free spirit with abundance of energy.)

He is survived by his parents; two brothers, Paul and Mark; and sister, Carolyn Pierson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lead. Inurnment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of the Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel in Lead.