Owen Ritchie Carlson

Owen Carlson, a man of quiet strength, immense kindness, and a legendary ability to fix anything, passed away on April 22, 2026. Known for his gentle nature and steady hand, Owen lived a life defined by hard work, a love for the outdoors, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Born on October 26, 1955, in Columbus, North Dakota, to Rolland and Marlys Carlson, Owen was raised with a deep-rooted love for horses and the open North Dakota plains. He was a devoted big brother to Sherrie and Kurt, and the bond they formed as children only grew stronger over the years; they remained close throughout his entire life.

Following his natural mechanical gift, he pursued an education as a mechanic—a skill set that would define his "jack-of-all-trades" reputation for the rest of his life. After working across various locations, Owen eventually made his home in Gillette, Wyoming. He dedicated 35 years of service to Campbell County Road and Bridge, where his colleagues knew him as the person to turn to for advice, comfort, or a solution to a broken machine.

In October 1982, Owen married Roxane, beginning a beautiful 33-year journey together until her passing. As a father to Cory and Crystal, Owen was a constant presence. Whether he was coaching sports teams, taking Cory hunting, or packing up the family for camping trips in the mountains, he led with patience and love.

While he was a proud dad, Owen found his greatest joy in becoming a "Papa." He was the biggest supporter of his three grandsons—Kyler, Taylor, and Kelby. He was the one who taught them to ride dirt bikes, took them fishing and hunting, and passed down his love for the woods. To his grandsons, he wasn’t just a grandfather; he was a teacher, a fixer, and a hero.

In 2018, Owen was fortunate to find love again and married his wife, Carol. Together, they made their home in Lyman, where they built a beautiful retired life. They created a haven where they enjoyed creating a safe space. Owen gained some bonus kids and grandkids. They spent their days surrounded by family, camping, fishing, playing games, and working through endless puzzles. Owen was also a formidable cribbage player—one "hell of a player" who rarely met a match he couldn't beat.

Owen was the man you called when you were stuck. Whether you needed something fixed, a heart mended, or just a quiet place to land, he was there. His absence leaves a void that can only be filled by the memories of his kindness and the many things he built to last.

He is preceded in death by his parents and late wife, Roxane. He is survived by his wife Carol, son Cory (Jennifer), daughter Crystal (Nathan), sister Sherrie (Tom), brother Kurt (Lori), bonus kids Carl (Alicia), Cara (Randy), Chris (Megan), Sam (Jess), grandchildren Kyler, Taylor, Kelby bonus grandkids Lindsay J., Levi, Kaden, Lindsay C., Colby, Kit, Dakota and numerous nieces and nephews.