Andrew C. Carlson

Andrew Charles Carlson, 52, of Oregon, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, at Serenity Hospice and Home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on September 30, 1973, in Rockford, Andy was the son of the late Glenn and Nancy (Williams) Carlson. A proud Oregon Hawk during his youth, Andy also attended Rock Valley College in Rockford. In 2006, he married his wife, Elaine (Clarke), at the Church by the Side of the Road in Rockton. After starting a family in Rockford, they returned to Andy’s roots in Oregon to raise their three children.

While Andy held professional roles at Best Buy, Cision (formerly Bacon’s), and Blue Cross Blue Shield, he was most defined by his ‘big swings’ as a business owner and entrepreneur. He founded the Darkhouse Productions recording studio and was a pioneer in the regional food scene. He launched the Fork N’ Stein food truck, and played a pivotal role in helping the City of Rockford draft its food truck ordinances, a legacy that continues to benefit local restauranteurs to this day.

After moving to Oregon, Andy’s ventures included the relaunch of the Scoops sandwich shop, The Popcorn Shoppe, and the Chow Down O-Town delivery service. He had a featured role as Clyde S. Dale on the locally produced “Mistress-Peace Theater.” He also lent his talents as a graphic designer to local businesses and restraunts.

To his friends, Andy was known as a dedicated audiophile and avid record collector, with an ear for sound and a deep respect for the history of rock n’ roll. His “Hi-Fi Garage” was a sanctuary for music, craft beer, and conversation.

Above all, Andy was a loving husband and father who beamed with pride for his children.

Andy is survived by his wife, Elaine; his three children, Braylond, Kinley, and Axel; his sister, Glenna (William, deceased) Pearson; his brother David (Cindy)Carlson; his nieces Amanda (Michael) Long; Katie (Quinn) Vanderheyden; Megan (Brian) Holba; Lyndsay Carlson ( Steven Cunningham) and his nephew, Matthew (Kammi) Pearson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Nancy, and his brother, Charlie.

Per Andy’s wishes, no formal services will be held. A “Celebration of Life” will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to support the arts at the Oregon schools. Andy loved his community and deeply believed in supporting its children and their creativity. Donations may be made by check to OCUSD, with “The Arts” noted in the memo line, and mailed to 206 S. 10th Street, Oregon, IL 61061.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Andrew C. Carlson, please visit our floral store.