Russell Eugene Carlson, 77 of Jamestown passed away July 8, 2026 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Russell was born on December 26, 1948 to Ivan and Ann (Hinz) Carlson in Jamestown, ND. He was the third of four children. Russell graduated from Jamestown High School and NDSU with a degree in agricultural economics.

Russell was drafted into the Army in the fall of 1970. He was a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Bragg, NC.

After his discharge he worked at the Spiritwood and Urbana Elevators until he started farming with his father and brother. On July 26, 2011 Russell had a fall that left him paralyzed. He returned to the farm 18 months after his accident. Through the help of Farm Rescue, he was able to get into a tractor with a special lift that they supplied and installed. He enjoyed getting into the tractor to roll soybeans and drive the grain cart. Although Russell struggled with many health issues his attitude was always positive and inspiring to all who were lucky enough to know him.

Russell was a long haired, long bearded intimidating looking man. His look screamed tough biker but he was a gentle, giving giant. His passions in life were jumping from airplanes, riding Harleys, spoiling his nieces and nephews, playing Santa at Spiritwood School Christmas programs, farming, and helping with sugar beet harvest.

Russell was community minded and served on numerous boards. He served for decades on the Winfield Township board, Northern Plains Electric Cooperative board, and the Jamestown Rural Fire Department board.

Russell’s family and friends are left to mourn this kind, gentle man. Russell is survived by sisters Bernice (Roger) Anderson, Drayton, Lorraine (Lee) Wahlund, Carrington, and sister-in-law Lori Carlson, Jamestown. He is survived by nephews and nieces Darcie (David) Kristjanson, Kristin (Steve) Pagel, Sevrin (Carlisa) Anderson, Stacey (Josh) Hohn, Derek (Lynda) Carlson and several great nieces and great nephews.

Russell is preceded in death by this father Ivan, mother Ann, and brother Richard.

Russell’s family would like to thank all of Russell’s amazing healthcare workers. The care given by home health specialists, Dr. Geier with the VA, the team from the Dialysis Unit in Jamestown, and the staff at Ave Maria made it possible for Russell to have a full and happy life after his paralysis.

A visitation will be held Tuesday July 14th at Eddy Funeral Home from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a prayer service at 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at St. John’s Lutheran on Wednesday July 15th at 10:30 am with Pastor Erik Weber officiating.

Eddy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.