Joanne M. Carlson

Joanne M. Carlson, 88, passed away at her home in West Haven, surrounded by her three daughters, on November 3, 2024. She was the wife of the late E. Robert Carlson and the mother of Debra and David Bond of East Haven, Beth and Edward Tuohy of Milford, and Cheryl and Vernon Guetens of Cheshire, sister of Linda Lundin of Hanover, Massachusetts and the late Donald Madison. Also survived by six grandchildren (Trevor, Taylor, Eddie, Spencer, Vaughn and Cameryn) and two great-grandchildren (Estella and Vander).

Joanne was born in New Haven, November 12, 1935, the daughter of the late Arthur and Ellen Madison. While attending West Haven High School, she worked part time as a bookkeeper at the Charles W. Scranton Company and continued full time after graduation. She later accepted a bookkeeper position at Peterbilt Trucking Company, was promoted to Office Manager and retired after 35 years of service. She met the love of her life, Bob, on a blind date. They were married for 52 years and together raised their family in West Haven.

Joanne was an exemplary employee and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. Quoted in her high school yearbook, she was “nice as the day was long.” She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love and generosity in caring for her family and friends, strength of spirit and unwavering Christian faith. She was a long-time member of the First Congregational Church of West Haven, served on numerous church committees and sang in the choir. Family was her priority as seen by her constant support. She attended every sporting event and school activity possible for her children and grandchildren. She was a Swim Team “Timer” at every swim meet for over 20 years. She loved the beach, gardening, animals, her Swedish heritage, and spending time with her lifelong childhood friends and family.

A memorial service will be held on November 17th at 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, West Haven. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the First Congregational Church, Book of Remembrance, 1 Church St., West Haven, CT 06516 or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements under the direction of Beecher and Bennett, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. To send condolences, please see obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.