James Emery Carlson

James Emery Carlson (Jim) of TempleTX passed away unexpectedly October 26, 2020 at his home.  A celebration of life will be 5-7 PM Friday, October 30, 2020 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home 8220 Woodway Drive, Waco TX.  Wearing a mask and social distancing will be required at the funeral home. Please wear your favorite jeans in honor of Jim.

Jim was born November 1, 1951 in Tyler MN to parents Emery and Hilda (Vogt) Carlson. Growing up on the family farm near Amboy MN, Jim graduated from Amboy High School in 1970 and graduated from Mankato Vocational Technical in 1972 with Diesel Mechanics.   Jim worked a few years as a farm equipment mechanic prior to finding the career he loved as a truck driver.   Jim worked a number of years as an owner/operator hauling grain and cattle.  In 1992 Jim moved to Temple TX where he continued to pull a van trailer. He currently was a proud employee of Helena Chemical of Eddy TX hauling fertilizer and chemical.

Jim had a lifelong passion for farming and restoring a collection of JD 2 cylinder tractors.   He also spent a great deal of time at his farm called Poverty Flats.  Jim enjoyed spending time with his friends and family and connecting with his fellow truckers around the country.  Jim was always willing to lend a hand to help someone no matter when or where they might be at.  His famous phrase “I’ll be right there” was heard by many.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, and niece Marsha.

Jim is survived by a brother Charlie Carlson, sister Mary (Mike) Stevens, nieces and nephew Michelle Martig, Jon (Angela) Stevens,  Becca (Spencer) Thorston, great nieces and nephews and close friends, Greg (Laura) Reid and John (Jody) Tindell.