by ORLANDO, Fla. — Industry veteran Richard “Dick” Carlson died here on Feb. 2 at age 84.
Over the course of a successful 35-year career in the home furnishings industry, he was widely respected as a sales representative “known for his integrity, strong work ethic and the lasting relationships he built with retailers, colleagues and partners.”
He represented Joan Fabrics for 20 years and Richloom for eight years, along with various other lines earlier in his career.
His obituary noted that “Carlson’s legacy is one defined by professionalism, character and meaningful personal connections.” He also had “a lifelong love of golf where he enjoyed camaraderie, competition and time spent with friends and family, but above all else, he loved his family and was deeply devoted to them.”
Carlson is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Lynda; his three children, Jay (spouse Amanda), Krista and Anne (spouse Don); and his nine grandchildren — Zack, Sydney, Emma, Jack, Ella, Zane, Brady, Anna and Reese — who affectionately called him “Bumpa.”
“Dad had a natural ability to connect with people,” Jay Carlson said. “Whether it was through his work, on the golf course, or simply spending time with family and friends, he brought warmth, humor and kindness into every room. He was trusted not only for his experience, but for the genuine and one-of-a-kind person he was.”
“He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.”
