MASON CITY — Susan “Sue” Carlson, 72, of Mason City, is being remembered as a devoted medical assistant, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and a woman whose kindness and strength touched many lives.
Carlson died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on Monday, May 18, 2026. A private service will be held at a later date.
Born Susan Alane Martin on September 14, 1953, in Des Moines, she moved with her family to Mason City when she was a young child. She later earned her Medical Assistant diploma from NIACC and went on to spend 30 years working as a medical assistant at MercyOne North Iowa.
Her years in health care reflected the same compassion that family and friends saw in her personal life. Carlson was known for her gentle care, thoughtful spirit and steady concern for others.
She met her husband, Mark Carlson, at a co-ed volleyball game, and the couple built a family together. Her children and grandchildren were at the center of her life, and she was known for bringing home “a little S” — a surprise — for the children and grandchildren she loved to spoil. Even when she could no longer shop around town, those surprises often continued through Amazon packages sent to the home.
Carlson also faced serious health challenges with courage. After being diagnosed with MDS about 10 years ago and acute leukemia in 2024, she continued to show optimism, determination and faith. Her family remembers her as someone who carried hardship with grace and continued trying to lift the spirits of those around her.
She is survived by her husband, Mark Carlson; her children, Chris Wistrick, Mike Wistrick and Sarah Atkinson and their families; grandchildren; siblings; her Maltese companion, Sadie; and many nieces and nephews.
Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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