Clarence E. “Pat” Carson, 81, passed away on Tuesday (January 11, 2022) at Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Wellsville.
Mr. Carson was born on July 22, 1940 in Andover to Clarence Edward and Lola Margaret (Robbins) Carson. He served in the United States Marine Corp from 1958-1963. On June 29, 1963 he married Beverly C. Russell, who predeceased him on June 24, 2004.
Pat was a machine operator for Norfolk Southern Railroad for 27 years, retiring in 2002. Prior to working for the railroad, he worked construction as a heavy equipment operator for several companies, including Joyce Western in Andover.
Pat is survived by five children, Harold “Hal” Barber III of Newport News, Va., Janet Lee of Andover, Vicky (Paul) Joyce of Bristol, Shawn (Michelle) Carson of Rochester and Kelly (Dan) Wurster of Andover; two sisters, Penny Acker and Melissa Foster; nine grandchildren, Joseph Barber, Jessica Quick, Delaney Joyce, Eoin Joyce, Jack Carson, Claire Carson, Patrick (Samantha) Hanbach, Carson Grover and Kash Grover; six great-grandchildren, Isabella, Peyton, Bailey, Harper, Aubrey and Esther; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his wife of 40 years, he was predeceased by two brothers, David Carson and James Carson; and partner, Sharon Cole.
Pat loved spending time with his family and friends. Some of the earlier family memories were when the whole family went camping where he was working that year. Many Summers were spent in Campgrounds like Terrace Lake in Rogers, Ohio and Letchworth State Park while he was working on I-390. For consecutive years, the family camped at Fort Wilderness at Disney World for their annual vacation. In later years, cruises became his preferred mode of vacation with Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexico and the Bahamas on the itinerary.
Pat was also an adventure addict. On his 75th birthday, he convinced his entire family to go white water rafting on the Genesee River in Letchworth. They had a great time. He loved going to garage sales and flea markets with family and friends and enjoyed the thrill of wheeling and dealing, always looking for the best deal. Pat had a phenomenal memory and was able to recall otherwise useless bits of trivia and facts from days of long ago, to the amazement of his family. Pat also enjoyed eating at Texas Hot in Wellsville and telling stories over a cup of coffee at the Emporium in Andover. Euchre and poker were other fun ways he spent time with those he loved. He was blessed with many loving and special friends.
In the latter part of Pat’s life, he came to know the Lord as his Savior. He attended Crosstown Alliance Church in Wellsville, where he was baptized three years ago.
Due to Covid-19 concerns, a private memorial service will be held at Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover at the convenience of the family. In honor of his service in the United States Marine Corps, full military honors will be rendered at Hillside Cemetery in Andover on Saturday (July 23) at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at a place to be determined. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Pat’s name may be made to Allegany County Cancer Services, Attn: Lori Ballengee, 100 South Highland Ave., Wellsville, NY 14895. © 2021 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
