William G. Carlson, 70, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009 at Heritage Manor Health Care Center in Chisholm, Minn.

He was born Aug. 18, 1939 in Austin to Edward G. and Lorraine (Goodwin) Carlson. He graduated with the Class of 1956 from Austin High School. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in business, he was drafted into the Vietnam War. After the service, he returned to Minnesota and worked for Hormel Foods Corp. in sales in northern Minnesota. After several years, he decided to move to California, where he worked in sales. Bill later returned to Minnesota, and because of health reasons, he retired and moved to Chisholm, Minn.

To keep himself busy, he would walk year round, putting on thousands of miles over the years. He also became involved with the Chisholm Bluestreak basketball program doing game statistics, pre-game analysis and even produced the Chisholm Bluestreaks Boys Basketball Booklet, complete with statistics, pictures, history, highlights and more. Bill was the epitome of the “Avid Fan.”

Survivors include Virginia Christensen of Stewartville, Minn. and several cousins.

A memorial service will be held in Chisholm, Minn. at the Rupp Funeral Home Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009. A graveside service will be held in Austin at Oakwood Cemetery in the spring.