Eric J. Carlson

Eric J. Carlson peacefully passed away on May 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous battle with the health of his heart. He was 76 years old.

Born on June 26, 1949, in Cedar Rapids, Eric was the beloved son of the late Arne and Marilyn Carlson. He was also preceded in death by his cherished wife, Susan D. Carlson, and his sister, Dru Carlson.

Raised in St. Louis, Eric distinguished himself early in life as the first scholar-athlete at Pattonville High School. He attended Cornell College before earning his medical degree from University of Missouri School of Medicine, where he met the love of his life, Susie.

Eric and Susan DeLalio were united in marriage on June 1, 1974, beginning a devoted partnership built on enduring love, faith, and family. Following medical school, Eric proudly served his country as a Navy physician and captain, completing his residency while serving in the United States Navy. He later moved to Philadelphia to continue his training at Penn Hospital.

A gifted and compassionate physician, Eric dedicated his professional life to caring for others. He practiced otolaryngology as a respected ENT surgeon in the Philadelphia area for decades, successfully leading his own private practice for more than twenty years. In his later career, he served as director of the Bosley office specializing in surgical hair restoration before ultimately retiring to lovingly care for his wife during her illness.

Though accomplished professionally, Eric’s greatest pride and joy was always his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son, he gave generously of his wisdom, humor, and unwavering love. He embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He was truly a renaissance man — equally appreciative of medicine, history, music, film, and culture. He loved classic cinema, oldies music, and held a lifelong affection for the original Superman, whose strength, integrity, and optimism mirrored qualities Eric himself embodied.

Eric is survived by his four loving daughters: Alyssa Swanljung (Peter), Juliet Primanti, Brianna Carlson, and Suzette Grilley (Damon). He is also survived by his twin brother, Lance Carlson (Kathy), his brother Mark Carlson, and his treasured grandchildren: Cael, Luke, Meryn, Ella, Kane, Dylan, Sean, Shae, Emery, Sofia, Devon, Maile, and Greyson, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Eric’s life was marked by compassion, intellect, dignity, and deep devotion to those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and enduring love that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life and Funeral Mass will be held at St. Denis Church on May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. to visit with the family and honor Eric’s remarkable life.