Craig Carlson

Craig Steven Carlson, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with prostate cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Born on July 2, 1963, in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in Wilton, Connecticut, Craig was a beacon of strength, humor, and kindness to all who knew him. Craig was the cherished son of the late Russell and Dorothy (Gielow) Carlson. After graduating from Wilton High School in 1981, Craig embarked on a lifelong career in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Beginning at the Georgetown Saloon in 1980, Craig’s journey took him from dishwasher to kitchen manager, host to bartender, and later into sales roles with Sysco, US Foods, and Performance Foodservice. Yet, it was his return to food service, where he could forge genuine relationships with his customers, that truly brought him the most fulfillment. On May 4, 1996, Craig married the love of his life, Jessica (Pasquarella), and together they built a beautiful family over 30 joyful years. Craig and Jessica were blessed with four remarkable sons: Steven, Russell, Michael, and Christopher, who were the pride and joy of Craig's life. Craig was immensely proud of the young men they have become, and his love for them was boundless. Craig leaves behind his devoted wife, Jessica; their sons, Steven, Russell, Michael, and Christopher; his siblings, Brent (Melissa), Brad (Wendy), and Chris-Anne (Richard) Logue; in-laws, Joe and Celia (Harco) Pasquarella, Teri (Pasquarella) and Joe Clement; and his cherished nephews and niece, Gregory & Matthew Logue, and Joseph, Kyle & Lindsay Clement. After graduating from Wilton High School in 1981, Craig embarked on a lifelong career in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Beginning at the Georgetown Saloon in 1980, Craig’s journey took him from dishwasher to kitchen manager, host to bartender, and later into sales roles with Sysco, US Foods, and Performance Foodservice. Yet, it was his return to food service, where he could forge genuine relationships with his customers, that truly brought him the most fulfillment. Craig’s passion for sports was infectious. An avid fan of the Chicago Bears, Cubs, Bulls, and Blackhawks, he also came to embrace the Red Sox, demonstrating his open heart and willingness to expand his horizons. Yet, it was on the fields of Bethel that Craig truly enjoyed. His dedication to youth sports was profound and unwavering. Craig delighted in guiding young athletes, teaching them the fundamentals of the game, and witnessing their growth as players and individuals. He has served as coach, board member and league President for both Bethel Baseball Association and Bethel Youth Football, and then as District 4 Commissioner for the CT Babe Ruth League. In January of this year, Craig was honored with induction into the CT Babe Ruth Baseball Hall of Fame—a testament to his enduring impact on a State level. Beyond his professional and athletic contributions, Craig was known for his larger-than-life presence and his enormous, gentle heart. His laughter could fill a room, and his generosity knew no bounds. A service to celebrate Craig's life will be held on July 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Stony Hill Fire Department, located at 59 Stony Hill Road, Bethel, CT. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Craig's memory to Smilow Cancer Hospital, a cause close to his heart. Donations can be made via their website: Smilow Cancer Hospital Donation. Craig Carlson’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege to know him. May he rest in peace, knowing the profound impact he made in his lifetime.