Steven Dale Carlson, age 70, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his home in Trego, Wis. He was born on December 30, 1955, in Caledonia, Minn., the son of Ronald and Margaret (Knutson) Carlson.
Steve grew up in Houston, Minn., surrounded by his parents, siblings, grandparents, many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. During his school years, he enjoyed forensics and theater, and he was well known and loved by his family and childhood community. As an adult, he first worked as a truck driver before earning a college degree in social services and building a career as a social worker. He served communities in southwest Wisconsin and on the Ho-Chunk Reservation. For the past 23 years he was united in marriage to Rochelle Ann (Steiner) Galloway. He continued his social work in Northwest Wisconsin and in recent years as a community organizer advocating for peace, justice, and labor rights. Steve used his ferocious intellect to fight against war, injustice, and poverty. He also had a sharp wit and sense of humor that many will remember fondly. His talents and interests also included professional singing and songwriting, filmography and essay writing. Steve had many meaningful friendships, acquaintances, and colleagues throughout his life. He loved his family with all his heart. We will all miss his presence in our lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife Rochelle “Shelly” of Trego, Wis., stepchildren Katrina (Barry) McCormick of Kentucky, and Korina Galloway of Hayward, Wis.; stepgrandchildren Brian Mansheim Jr and Calvin Mansheim, and Karma (Eric) Piper of Martinsburg, W. V.; his mother Margaret Carlson of Houston, Minn., his siblings Scott (Kathy Miller) Carlson of Palo Alto, Calif., Jenelle (Paul) Jacobsen of Minnesota City, Minn., Jim (Ann) Carlson of Onalaska, Wis., and Audra (Tony) Compton of Eden Prairie, Minn.; his mother and father-in-law Milda Brainerd and Allyn Graap of Spooner, Wis.; his brothers-in-law Roger “Nick” (Marietta) Steiner of Trego, Wis., and Scott (Roxanne) Steiner of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his father Ronald Carlson, and his brother-in-law David Steiner.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 2-4 p.m. (time for remembrances at 3 p.m.) at Money Creek Town Hall, 1937 Money Creek Rd, Houston, MN 55943. Interment to follow memorial service at Money Creek Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held this mid-July at Steve and Shelly’s home in Trego, Wis.
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