Alf Lawrence Carlson

Alf Lawrence Carlson, 99

Port St. Lucie, FL (formerly of Norwell and Braintree, MA)

Alf Lawrence Carlson, 99, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, formerly of Norwell and Braintree, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, at the Ardie R. Copas Veterans Home in Port St Lucie, Florida.

Born in Quincy, Massachusetts, on February 13, 1926, he was the son of the late August Alfons Carlson and Elin Linnea Anderson. A proud American and member of the “Greatest Generation,” Lawrence was permitted to graduate early from high school on his 18th birthday in order to serve his country in World War II. He joined the U.S. Army Air Force and served with the Flying Tigers in China as a B-24 tail gunner. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for distinctive acts of heroism and achievement. He was honorably discharged in December 1945.

On June 11, 1949, Lawrence  married the love of his life, Doris Elsa Carlson, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage until her passing in February 2004.

Lawrence was a dedicated painting contractor during his working years in Massachusetts, contributing to the preservation of American history through his work on landmark sites such as the John Adams Birthplace in Quincy, the Old North Church in Boston, and the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia.

A 32nd-degree Mason of Delta Lodge in Braintree, Lawrence lived a life of service, craftsmanship, and devotion to his family.

He is survived by his son, Lawrence David Carlson and daughter-in-law, Melanie Deardorff Carlson of Lititz, Pennsylvania, and his daughter, Sandra Linn Carlson of Port St. Lucie, Florida; three granddaughters and grandsons-in-law, Meredith and Scott Bailey of Lititz, PA, Marisa and Alex Ruehle of Denver, CO, and Mindy and Zach Blake of Colorado Springs, CO; and five beloved great-grandchildren: Nora, Luke, Gavin, Rae, and Micah.

Lawrence will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a true gentleman. His quiet strength, integrity, and deep love for his family will be forever cherished.

A private service will be held by the family at the National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Ardie R. Copas State Veterans’ Nursing Home, 13000 SW Tradition Pkwy, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34987, in gratitude for the care and honor shown to Lawrence in his final days.