Obituary of Lucille Carlson

LUCILLE L. CARLSON July 3, 1919 - August 27, 2011 Lucille Lorraine Smith was born in Harvey, North Dakota on July 3, 1919, and passed away on August 27, 2011, at the age of 92. Being a Type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic since 1932, Lucille defied the actuarial tables. She attended elementary and secondary schools in Columbia Heights, MN, graduating from Columbia Heights High School in 1937 (class size was 41). After marrying the love of her life, Ed Carlson, in 1942, they moved to Seattle, WA, where Ed was a Stress Engineer for Boeing Aircraft working on the B-29 and Lucille worked at Munsingwear. A few years later, they moved to southern California, where Ed continued his career with Northrop, Nortronics and Hughes Aircraft, working on many high profile projects, including the Space Shuttle. In 1946, they welcomed their daughter, Judy, and Lucille became a 'stay at home' Mom. Ed and Lucille moved to Chico in 1998. Lucille was an accomplished seamstress, along with being a fantastic cook. Her chocolate chip cookies were heavenly and her Swedish meatballs are legendary. Fresh, homemade pies were her specialty. She and Ed were both experts at ballroom, line and square dancing. She was noted for taking her role as a homemaker very seriously. Her holiday parties and dinner gatherings were highlights on everyone's social calendar. She was even featured in her local paper for "creativity in turning leftovers into a gourmet meal". Seasons and holidays were celebrated with wonderfully elaborate decorations. Lucille was always gracious and thoughtful, being well-known for her handwritten letters and cards. Lucille was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Edwin; sister, Virginia Carling; brother, Eugene (Bud) Smith; and grandson, Mark Sitton. Survivors include her daughter, Judy Sitton; son-in-law, Gary Sitton; brother, Richard (Dick) Smith; granddaughter, Holly Bailey and spouse, Steve Bailey; great-grandsons, Max and Josh Andersen; and nephews and nieces. Drs. Sam Brown, Christine Schooling, Kevin Brown, Marcia Moore and Forrest Olson, along with Enloe Medical Center and Enloe Home Care and Hospice, provided exceptional care and support for Lucille. Rhonda, Jan, Jennifer, Monika, Tina, Dana and Christie contributed greatly to Lucille's comfort in her final days. Thanks to all those who touched Lucille's life with friendship, love, compassion and respect! An open Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on September 7, 2011 at Brusie Funeral Home. A private burial will follow at Glen Oaks Memorial Park. Visitation will be held on Tuesday evening, Sept. 6, 2011 from 6-8 p.m. at Brusie Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gateway Science Museum or Enloe Medical Center or the charity of your choice, in care of Brusie Funeral Home.