We regret to inform you that Phil Carlson passed away peacefully at 2:28 on December 27, 2004 from a massive stroke. This was a complication from his heart transplant surgery performed on 12-25-04. As some of you remember Phil suffered a severe heart attack on Sept. 5, 2004. Phil was admitted to Trinity Regional Medical Center and transferred to St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN the following day.
Phil was born and raised in Humboldt County, he graduated from Humboldt High School in 1973. He owned and operated the Unicorn from Sept 1981 until March of 1999. He was employed as a welder at Chantland Manufacturing in Humboldt. Phil was an avid motorcyclist and an active member of ABATE of Iowa for 19 years. He has held several positions, which included MRF officer (Motorcycle Rider Foundation), District 10 Assistant Coordinator, Parade Coordinator, and Assistant Toy Run Coordinator. Phil's driving force and selfless devotion to The Toy Run (ABATE'S largest fundraising event) has benefited thousands of underprivileged children in more than 8 counties with toys at Christmas time. He was a participant of the Bikes for Tykes program which collect's used bikes that are then restored and given to needy children. His passion for motorcycles had taken him to many places including being selected to ride in the parade at the Harley Davidson 100th anniversary celebration in Milwaukee WI.
Phil attended the Black Hills Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota for the last 15 consecutive years. He was surrounded by many family members including Cheryl Willey, Daughter Amy, Brian and Mary Carlson, Brother Curt Carlson whom you may recognize as district 10 members as well. Please keep the Carlson family in your thoughts and prayers. Phil would have turned 50 on December 31st.
Phil was well known for giving us a final quote to end our district meetings. I think if he were able to give us one now it would be this:"Dream as if you will live forever, live as if you will die tomorrow"