Obituary

Helen M. Carlson

Wed, 05/08/2024 - 8:00am

Helen Maire Lindberg Carlson, born Marie Helen Lindberg on Feb. 12, 1930, in Westmanland, Maine, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2024 at home in her favorite recliner. She was a cherished daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and creativity.

Helen was deeply proud of her Swedish heritage, tracing her roots to Victor Lindberg, who immigrated from Västmanland, Sweden, to Maine in 1883 and settled in what is now Westmanland.

As the daughter of Ernest Lindberg and Mildred Anderson Lindberg, Helen shared her childhood with her sisters Mavis, Phyllis, Loreena, and her brother Charles. She was an active member of the Westmanland 4-H Club and Lutheran church. She worked on her father's farm, displaying remarkable dedication by picking 100 barrels of potatoes in a day at 20 cents per barrel. She also worked at her father's camps on Madawaska Lake and later worked at Cary Memorial Hospital, showcasing her versatility and commitment to hard work.

In 1948, Helen married the love of her life, Bernhard Carlson, whom she met at the Stockholm movie theater, a place she cherished for relaxation and joy during her younger years. Their enduring love lasted 65 years until Bernhard's passing in 2013. Together, they welcomed three sons into their lives: Phillip, Douglas and Clyde.

In 1963, Helen and Bernhard relocated to Dresden, Maine, where they embarked on a journey of farming and creativity. Helen's talents shone brightly as she crafted beautiful baskets, rugs that she sold in their farm store; and quilts that she made for each of her sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Helen found joy in simple pleasures, often spending her free time playing guitar, engaging in spirited games of cribbage and dominoes with her children and grandchildren, and square dancing alongside her husband.

A celebration of Helen's life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Stockholm Historical Society, P.O. Box 1 Stockholm ME 04783 in her honor. 

Helen Maire Lindberg Carlson will be deeply missed and fondly remembered as a pillar of strength, love, and creativity by all who had the privilege of knowing her.