Susan Carlson

Susan “Sue” Carlson, 72, of Mason City, Iowa passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones on Monday, May 18, 2026. A private service will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Sue’s family.

Susan Alane (Martin) Carlson was born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 14, 1953 to Larry and Lena (Newcomb) Martin. When she was two years old, the family moved north to Mason City, where Sue graduated from NIACC with her Medical Assistant diploma. She would go on to work as a medical assistant at MercyOne North Iowa for thirty years, touching countless lives with her dedication and care.

Sue met Mark Carlson at a co-ed volleyball game, and the two were married thereafter, raising three children together. Family was a cornerstone in Sue’s life, and her children and grandchildren meant the world to her. She was as selfless and compassionate at home as she was at work, always ready with a kind word or gentle touch for those she loved. A great many of her shopping trips ended with her bringing home “a little S” (surprise) for a child or grandchild, who she loved to dote on. When she could no longer head out to shop in town, the flow of Amazon packages to Sue’s home very often included “a little S” as well.

Sue was a fighter. When she was diagnosed with MDS ten years ago, and acute leukemia in 2024, her optimism and determination saw her through her treatment. Even at her lowest, she was determined to be a light for others around her. She carried her burdens with a grace and strength that kept her family’s spirits high, even to the end, when her faith carried her home to the Lord.

Sue was a mother, grandmother, sister, and wife, and filled each of her roles with the love, loyalty, and compassion she came to be known for. Her selflessness and heart of gold were well known to all fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Sue leaves behind a legacy of care, love, and a deep joy in the life she created with her family.

Susan is survived by her husband, Mark Carlson; children, Chris (Jill) Wistrick, Mike (Suzanne) Wistrick, and Sarah (RJ) Atkinson; grandchildren, Kalli, Carson, Rowan, and Remi; sister, Kay (Bill) Hay; brother, Ron (Susie) Martin; her Maltese companion, Sadie; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Lena Martin.