Debra Carlson

Debra Anne Carlson, 62, passed away on Friday, February 20th at her home in Collinston, Utah.   She was born on January 10th, 1953 in Norfolk, Virginia to Francis and Dorothea (Wannemacher) Carlson.

As the daughter of an Air Force Colonel, Deb lived many places while growing up.  She attended high school in Palos Verdes, California and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah to attend the University of Utah.  After graduation, she became a Laboratory Supervisor of the Blood Bank and Transfusion

Service at Primary Children’s Hospital.  Deb’s thirst for knowledge and love of horses inspired her to move to the Logan area where she continued her education at Utah State University.  She earned a PhD in Wildlife Biology, specializing (with the help of some rowdy coyotes) in Reproductive Physiology.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Dorothea Carlson, nephew Stephan Day, Bob Frohboese, Nancy Bergeson, Heather-the-Horse, and many beloved four-legged friends.

She is survived by her sisters Theo (Wes) Pratt and Lynne (Neal) Olson; her nephew and nieces Theresa Duncan, Billie Olson, Heather Satterley, Katie Winters and Cassie Olson; her “children”- horses Sage, Peppy and Boo, dogs Chance, Pica and Bonita, Minx the cat, and her flock of ducks -Zippy, Daryl, Daryl, Siren, Puddles and Splash.

Debbie was a lifelong adventurer. It wasn’t what she did, it was who she was.  She loved to travel and explore the outdoors with family and friends. Most recently she visited Mongolia with her niece Teri, where she hoped to catch a glimpse of the elusive Snow Leopard.  She was an expert horsewoman, kayaker and skier.  Above all, Deb was a passionate advocate for animal welfare and nature conservation.  She lived her life as a sincere example of her convictions.

Though a very private person, “Carlson” was a treasured friend, “DAC” was a generous philanthropist, “Dr. Deb” was a brilliant and sharp witted naturalist, and “Debbie” was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt and mother to creatures big and small.  She was our feral co-conspirator, role model, Spirit Guide, and baby sister. She was loved by all who knew her, and will be deeply missed.

Before her passing, Debbie told her family, “I don’t have a bucket list.  Everything I wanted to do, I did.”

Deb’s family wishes to thank Nurse Vikki Donovan for all of her kindness and care.  A private memorial service will be held this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Deb’s honor to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the World Wildlife Fund or the Nature Conservancy.