Ronald Eric Carlson, 79, of Naperville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025. He was born on August 18, 1945, in Evanston, Illinois, to the late Torsten and Svea Carlson, and he lived in Naperville for 53 years.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene "Bobbie"; his children, Dan (Gina), Mike, Sara (Peter), and Melissa; his cherished grandchildren, Lexi (Mike), Tyler, Zac (Abby), Teigan (Trevor), Gavin, Annalise, Sonja, and Adela; and his great-grandchildren, Emerson and Jaxon. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Mark, and his brothers Ray, Sig, and Hasse.

A lifelong learner and driven professional, Ron earned his master's degree in Chemical Engineering from Northwestern University. His career with Amoco Chemical evolved into a specialty in quality management, culminating in his proud service as a Malcolm Baldrige Quality Examiner—a role that reflected both his intellect and his commitment to excellence.

Faith was the cornerstone of Ron's life. A devoted Christian, he spent countless hours studying the Bible, particularly delighting in the deep scholarship and insights he discovered through his many years of involvement with Bible Study Fellowship. Alongside his wife, Bobbie, he shared a lifelong passion for music, and together they were a beloved presence in the church choir.

Ron found immense joy in traveling the world with his family, creating unforgettable memories and embracing each journey with curiosity and gratitude. Most recently, he and Bobbie hosted their extended family on Disney cruises to the Baltics (2019) and Iceland (2023).

His deep love for family inspired a hobby in genealogy. Through years of meticulous research, he traced his ancestry back centuries, culminating in an expansive, tree-sized family tree that stands as a testament to his dedication and legacy.

He will be remembered for his joyful optimism and his ability to find and celebrate the hidden sparkle in every moment. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering faith left a lasting imprint on all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 27, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N Main St, Wheaton. A private graveside service will follow on Saturday.