Dena

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Nadine F. Carlson

of Lounsberry, NY

Nadine F. "Dena" Carlson, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Lounsberry, NY, on February 8, 2025, at the age of 62. Born on May 30, 1962, in McKees Rocks, PA, Dena was a beacon of love and friendship to all who knew her.

Dena's life was marked by her devotion to her family and her passion for life. She is survived by her loving children, Richard Lee Carlson and his fiancée Jessica Forkley, David "Bubba" Michael Carlson and his wife Jamie Talcott, Jessica Marie Woods and her husband Nick, and Michael Scott "Mikey" Carlson. She was affectionately known as Nanny D to her special grandchildren, Hunter Eugene Wood, Dehlila Mae Carlson, Richard Courtney Carlson, Marcus and Charlie Talcott who will miss her deeply. Her siblings, Derek "Kip" (Susan) Perry, Walker Perry, and Sandra Frisbie (Carl Shirley), along with her nieces and nephews, Ann (Bill) Gerlach, Justin (Jessica) Perry, and Tonya Fenton and Family, will forever cherish her memory. Dena's feline companions Mia, Trouble, and Cuddles also held a special place in her heart. Her loving ex-husband and father of her children, David Carlson, remained a dear friend, and his support during Dena's health challenges was invaluable. Dena was predeceased by her parents, Walter V. and Hope Faith (Pokorski) Perry.

A proud graduate of Owego Free Academy class of 1980, Dena furthered her education at SUNY Broome, where she studied Business Administration. Her professional journey was as vibrant and varied as her personality. She brought warmth and joy to her roles as a server at the Double Tree Hotel in Binghamton, a clerk at the Dollar Store in Nichols, and the Lounsberry Truck Stop. Her love of cooking shone through in her time as a cook at Castle Gardens and the Owego Treadway.

Dena's interests were as wide-ranging as they were heartwarming. She made the best peach and apple pie filling, and her spaghetti sauce was the highlight of family dinners. An accomplished baker and cake decorator, Dena's talents were a staple of family game nights with Jess and Mikey. Her love for crochet and ceramics saw her open her home to teach classes, sharing her skills and passion with others. An avid reader, she enjoyed the works of Danielle Steel and Nora Roberts. Known as the "Lounsberry Mom," Dena was a friend to many and served as "Mom's Taxi," joyfully taking her children to various activities and treasuring family vacations at Bolt Castle. She will also be remembered for her collection of Eeyore items and that she carried his strong will and determination in life.

In her life, Dena embodied the essence of kindness and friendship, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. The care and support provided by Guthrie Oncology and Staff during her time of need were a testament to the impact Dena had on those around her.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Saturday, February 15th from 10 – 12 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A memorial service and celebration of her life will follow at 12 pm. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Flowers will be provided by the family and suggest memorial contributions be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude's Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in loving memory of Nadine F. “Dena” Carlson.

Dena's life was a reflection of the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Her loving nature, kind spirit, and friendly demeanor will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.  We will forever remember our loving Mom as we celebrate her life which was full of laughter, love, and cherished moments. Her memory will be held close, a guiding light of what it means to live a life of generosity and joy. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.