MASON CITY – Susan “Sue” Carlson, 72, of Mason City, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 18, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
According to her obituary from Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, a private service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Sue’s family.
Susan Alane Martin Carlson was born September 14, 1953, in Des Moines, to Larry Martin and Lena Newcomb Martin. When she was 2 years old, her family moved north to Mason City, the community she would call home.
Sue graduated from North Iowa Area Community College with a medical assistant diploma and went on to spend 30 years working as a medical assistant at MercyOne North Iowa. Through that work, she touched many lives with her care, steady presence and dedication.
She met Mark Carlson at a co-ed volleyball game, and the two later married. Together, they raised three children and built a family life that became central to who Sue was.
Family members remembered Sue as selfless, compassionate and deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren. She was known for bringing home “a little S,” or surprise, for a child or grandchild after shopping trips. Even when she could no longer shop in town, Amazon packages often arrived at her home with surprises for the people she loved.
Sue also faced serious health challenges with determination and grace. She was diagnosed with MDS 10 years ago and acute leukemia in 2024. Her family remembered her as a fighter whose optimism helped carry her through treatment, and as someone who continued trying to be a light for others even during difficult days.
Those who knew Sue remembered her as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend whose life was marked by love, loyalty, compassion and faith.
Sue is survived by her husband, Mark Carlson; her children, Chris Wistrick and wife Jill, Mike Wistrick and wife Suzanne, and Sarah Atkinson and husband RJ; four grandchildren, Kalli, Carson, Rowan and Remi; her sister, Kay Hay and husband Bill; her brother, Ron Martin and wife Susie; her Maltese companion, Sadie; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Lena Martin.
Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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