Darrell Carlson, 82, of Powers Lake, ND, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at his home in Powers Lake, ND.

He was born December 2, 1943 to Clarence and Gladys (Holte) Carlson. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1962 and then went to Molar Barber College in Fargo, ND.

On October 4, 1963, he married Barbara (Blomquist) Carlson. Together they raised 3 children. Darrell & Barb lived in various places before making Powers Lake their home in 1979. Darrell opened his barber shop in Powers Lake and worked part-time even after retirement. He also put in 30 years of service in the oil field.

He was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church and served many years on the Powers Lake City Council.

Growing up on his family farm he developed a love for horses. He shared that passion with his wife and children and grandchildren. They spent many hours riding horses and attending horse shows. He loved the chance to hunt with his children and grandchildren. He spent many hours playing pinochle with family and friends. Darrell and Barb loved camping and dancing. They rarely missed a sporting event or activity of their children, grandchildren and now great grandchildren.

He was known for his jokes and sense of humor. He never met a stranger and it was an added bonus if they shared his love for horses or guns.

3 years ago, he suffered a major health crisis and when he woke up in the ICU he said “I guess the good Lord didn’t have my room ready yet.” We were lucky he made a miraculous recovery and the next 3 years we called our bonus years. In that time he grew an even deeper love and appreciation for his family. Even though his death was unexpected we find peace in God’s timing and knowing that his room was now ready.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 62 years, Barbara Carlson; his children, Scott (Brenda) Carlson, Rick (Teri) Carlson, and Brenda (Jarret) Van Berkom; his grandchildren, Jordan (Haylee) Carlson, Clay Carlson, Megan (Ben) Tarap, Alex (Shantell) Carlson, Katelyn (Lee) Braunagel, Justin Van Berkom, and Kyle Van Berkom. His great grandchildren, Coy Carlson, Tyson Tarap, Clancee Carlson, Quade Carlson, Brayden Tarap, Knox Carlson, Cord Carlson, Carson Tarap, Thomas Braunagel, Lincoln Tarap, Bailey Braunagel, and Lettie Carlson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father in-law; his brother and sister-in-law, Rolland and Marlys Carlson; brother-in-law, Robert Blomquist; sister-in-law, Dianne Miller; and nephews, Cameron and Christopher Blomquist.