Obituary of Alice M. Carlson

Alice M. Johnson Carlson, 97, formerly of 13 N. Hopkins Ave. Jamestown, died at 11:30 p.m. Tuesday (January 15, 2013) in the Heritage Village Rehab and Skilled Nursing Facility. She was born October 14, 1915 in Patton, PA the daughter of Andrew and Alma Erickson Johnson. Following the tragic death of her father in a coal mining accident, she and her mother moved to Jamestown where Alice attended Jamestown Schools, and where she has lived ever since. As a young woman, she was employed at National Worsted Mills. She married the love of her life, Richard, on February 21, 1942, and they celebrated 46 happy years together until his death in 1988. Rick came from a rather large family, so, by marriage, Alice inherited several brothers and two very special sisters. Alice and Rick and their two daughters enjoyed many camping excursions as well as countless road trips during summer vacations. The backyard of their home was the area playground for all the children in the neighborhood. When Alice's girls were growing up, she helped out young working mothers by babysitting their children in her home. Alice loved being a stay-at-home Mom, and later cherished the opportunity to help out her younger daughter by helping to care for her own grandson. Alice was well known for her many talents in the kitchen, and she always had something tasty baking in the oven. Many family gatherings were hosted at her home throughout the years and she would excel with her Swedish specialties. Birthday parties always included full course dinners prepared with lots of love. She had countless cookbooks and was constantly on the lookout for new recipes to try. She also loved to sew and knit, and she was an avid reader. Alice is a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. She was baptized, confirmed and married there. She taught Sunday school, sang in choir and was active in various organizations within her church family. She praises God for the many blessings in her life. She is survived by her two daughters, Onnolee (Merle) Nollinger of Jamestown; Sandra (Thomas) Kicinski of W. Mifflin, PA; three grandchildren, Gina (Matthew) Wakefield and Erik Nollinger (Ashley Miller) of Jamestown; Andy Fitzgerald of Vero Beach, FL; and five great grandchildren, Anthony, Erik Jr., Allanna, Arriane, and Kevin Nollinger. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Visitation will not be observed. Burial will be in Lake View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association, WNY Chapter, 2805 Wehrle Dr Ste 6, Williamsville, NY 14221-7380; or Immanuel Lutheran Church, 556 E Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701.