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Douglas D. Carlson

Posted

There are no words that can express both the sense of loss combined with the joy of remembering the life of Douglas Dale Carlson, beloved husband, son, brother and dear friend to so many.

Doug left this life for his next adventure on Wednesday, Aug. 22, after a brief champagne toast surrounded by family and close friends. He was loved by so many people he touched through his passion for cycling, wine, food and music. He was a renaissance man who delighted in poetry, traveling, spirited conversation and anything that enhanced community, life and love.

Doug was born in Biloxi, Miss. on May 19, 1959. He grew up in Colorado Springs and enjoyed being part of a very close-knit family with many relatives throughout Colorado. As a young teenager he helped build the Colorado Trail and enjoyed backpacking and almost any outdoor activity.

He attended Colorado State University in Ft. Collins where he discovered his love of great music by attending as many concerts as he possibly could in lieu of class. He began a long and successful career in the food and beverage industry starting in Durango, Colo., where he also became a professional ski bum skiing sometimes over 100 days a season. His F&B management career took him to many different 5 Star properties across the country where he acquired his love and knowledge of great food, wine, and enjoying people from all walks of life.

He eventually traded his career to pursue his passion for cycling. His dream became Fountain Hills Bikes which he opened in 2012. His vision resulted in the Summer Night Ride Series at McDowell Mountain Park. Doug had an unforgettable impact on the local cycling community. Who can’t remember the shop peace pole that embodied everything Doug believed in? He shared his light, his passion and his goodness with anyone he encountered.

He is survived and missed by Jan, his wife and the love of his life; by Dale and Sandra Carlson, his parents; by his brother, Kraig Carlson (Rachelle) and family; and sister, Tamra Frisch (Rick) and family; by Sara, Sam and Catherine Olszewski, Jan’s children who he embraced as his own.

A service to celebrate Doug’s life will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 28th at The Fountains Methodist Church. Gathering at 6 p.m., Memory Service at 7 p.m. and Life Celebration at 8 p.m. Donations in honor of Doug will be used to promote his dedication to cycling.