January 11, 1950 – June 13, 2025
Susan Bower Carlson, lovingly known as Suzy, was born on January 11, 1950, in Hastings, Nebraska, to Linnea and Carlton Morrison Sr. Susan passed peacefully in her home the morning of June 13, 2025, after a years-long battle with dementia and related health challenges.
After the early death of her father (age 3), Susan was raised by her devoted mother, Linnea Morrison, a faithful educator and nurse who inspired Susan’s lifelong love for learning and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Susan attended Brigham Young University and then earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Utah. Bright and adventurous, she modeled in college and traveled the world. She always focused on helping others, work that included child adoptions and being a school counselor.
She was introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age six. She lived her faith with passion and purpose. She married Wayne Bower in the Provo Temple on April 2, 1973. That marriage brought five beloved sons. After Wayne’s passing, Susan married Robert K. Carlson in the Boise Idaho Temple on March 3, 1990, becoming a mother to Bob's two children. Together, Bob and Susan created a blended, unified family full of love, learning, and faith. Susan was a devoted mother and grandmother.
She was a devoted disciple of Christ and served in church callings and assignments, including serving as a missionary with Bob in the Maryland Baltimore Mission. She taught the Gospel of Jesus Christ at every opportunity and supported her children’s growth in all areas. Her home was filled with laughter, scripture, and love.
Susan is preceded in death by her first husband, Wayne Bower, and her brother, Carlton Morrison Jr.
Susan is survived by her second husband, Robert Carlson; her children: Daniel, Gregory, Richard, Michael, Jacob Bower, Heidi Ashton, and Shane Carlson; as well as 27 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Evelyn Morrison.
Susan will be remembered for her fierce love, deep testimony, passionate conviction, and joyful spirit. Her legacy lives on in the faith and unity of her family.
