Gerald Walter Carlson, 77, of Waynesville, Missouri, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the Missouri Veteran's Home in Mexico, Missouri.

Mr. Carlson will be laid to rest in Riverview Cemetery in Circle, Montana, at a future date.

Gerald (Jerry) was born on August 10, 1948, in Everett, Washington, the son of Wallace W. and Marie L. (Johnson) Carlson.  Jerry grew up in Kalispell, Montana, and graduated from Flathead High School in 1966.  On August 10, 1970, he married Nancy Colleen Trotter who preceded him in death.

Jerry served honorably in the US Army for six years achieving the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged.  Jerry joined the United States Postal Service and served as Postal Carrier, Postal Clerk and then as Postmaster at Bucyrus, Vienna, Willard, Waynesville, and Richland, Missouri, offices before retiring.  During this time, he also achieved a bachelor's degree in accounting and business administration from Drury College in Springfield, Missouri, in May of 1981.

Jerry enjoyed spending time with his pets, outdoors in the woods, on the water at Lake of the Ozarks, riding motorcycles and spending time with his grandchildren: Kaylee Carlson, Karlee Carlson, Kody Carlson and Kolton Carlson.

Jerry was known for his unwavering love and support for his family and his great sense of humor,

Survivors include his sons Jeffrey Carlson and Bradley Carlson and his older brother and sister Dave Carlson and Betty McGillen.

Gerald was preceded in death by his father Wallace Carlson, his mother Marie Carlson, and his wife, Nancy Carlson.

The family requests memorial donations be made to the Humane Society of Pulaski County (www.warmhearts.org).  Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.