Alexander Alan Carson (known as Sandy, Al, and Pops) died peacefully on August 23 in Edmonds, Washington.
Born in Del Norte, Colorado on September 24, 1931, to Sabina and Maurice Carson, he was their only child. After growing up in Del Norte, he attended Adam State College and served in the Air Force. He completed his degree at University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado where he met his wife, Dorothy Jean Lee (Degee). They lived in Greeley and Longmont before settling in Boulder to raise their family. He later completed a Master’s Degree in education at the University of Colorado.
Al began his professional life as an educator, dedicating himself to teaching before transitioning to the role of Guidance Counselor at Front Range Community College. He took great satisfaction in this position, particularly cherishing the bonds he formed with the students he mentored and supported.
While living in Boulder Al became a part of the Annual Red Zinger (later the Coors Classic) bike race as the coordinator for the teams of people that keep the course safe during the race. His commitment and leadership in this role led to the distinguished honor of being appointed Chief Marshall for the Road Race at the Los Angeles Olympics—a truly memorable highlight in his life.
After Al divorced he moved to Seattle and found a job at SAS Shoes. He was at times a manager, and at other times a salesperson. His engaging personality really shined here. People loved buying shoes from him and telling their stories.
As many people reading this know, Al had a passion for sending postcards. This was one way he stayed connected with his, very wide, circle of friends.
Al is survived by three children: Maurice (Genalen) residing in Woodinville, WA; Maureen (Tim) Hill in Montrose, CO; and Andrew Carson and Shelly Corbett of Seattle, WA. His family legacy extends to six grandchildren: Renee Hill of Milwaukee, WI; Levi Hill (Alix Sturgess) of Moncioni, Italy; Sierra Carson (Nick Schmeck) in Mountlake Terrace, WA; Noah Carson of Seattle, WA; Glyn Carson and Miles Carson, both in Woodinville, WA; In addition, Al leaves behind three great-grandchildren—Anamaya, Dorotea, and Sabina—all residing in Moncioni, Italy.
Al had a keen interest in his family, photography, liberal politics, books, Colorado’s railroad, and mining history, and held a deep appreciation for all animals, most notably his dog, Cashew. He was loved by family, friends, and acquaintances. His absence will be felt by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held on October 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the:
Workhorse Coworking
123 2nd Ave. S, Suite 230
Edmonds WA 98020
A second ceremony will be held on October 11 at 1:00 PM at the:
Ruth Marie Community Center
575 Columbia Ave.
Del Norte CO 81132
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the ACLU (action.aclu.org), in memory of Al Carson
Or Purrfect Pals (purrfectpals.networkforgood.com) in Seattle, in memory of Al Carson.
