NORTH CANAAN — Elihu Carlson, 95, of North Canaan, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026. Born in Winsted, he was predeceased by his beloved wife and the absolute love of his life for 60 years, Doreen Carlson. A proud Korean War veteran, Elihu was one of the oldest, if not the oldest, members of the Canaan VFW post. He was a man of immense work ethic, working alongside his brother David on the family dairy farm, owning and operating D&E Carlson Excavating & Trucking for over 40 years, and proudly wrenching on countless cars at “Carlson’s Garage.” Elihu’s greatest legacy is his family. He is survived by his children; Bryon (Cindy) Carlson of North Canaan, Larry Carlson of North Canaan, Mark (Stephanie) Carlson of Southfield, Massachusetts, and Sharon (Don) Oldenburg of Noblesville, Indiana. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren; Shane, Lance, Catherine, Bryon Jr., Michael, Tanya, Justin, Kyle, Jordan, and Zachary, as well as several great-grandchildren. Together, Elihu and Doreen were pillars of the community.
They spent many years volunteering at the Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry and dancing with the Mountain Laurel Square Dance Club. When he wasn’t with family, Elihu was in his workshop crafting Christmas ornaments, birdhouses, and game pieces. He passed his love of games down through generations, famously teaching anyone willing to learn how to play Setback, Chicken Foot, and Pay Me. He will be fondly remembered for cruising Canaan Valley in his beloved blue van, always carrying dog treats in his pocket, and offering his signature “pointer-finger wave” to everyone he passed. The family extends their sincerest gratitude to the staff at Fairview Commons for their exceptional care of “Pop.” Family and friends are invited to gather for a Graveside Service on Sunday, July 19 at 1:00 p.m. at Carlson Cemetery, Moses Meade Rd, North Canaan, CT. Afterwards, all are welcome to join us at 20 Carlson Road, North Canaan.
In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Elihu’s legacy of giving by donating to: Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry, PO Box 30, North Canaan, CT 06018 and VFW Post 06851.
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