Michael Wayne Carson

He wasn’t just a father-in-law; he was my dad for 31 years. I married his son Kerry when I was 16, and together we gave him handsome grandsons Jason Paul Laubach-Lents, Kody Michael Carson, and a beautiful granddaughter Zoie Delayne Carson, along with five great-grandchildren: Raeligh Shae Laubach-Lents, Lyric Paul Laubach-Lents, Elliot Mascle Laubach-Lents, Liliana Rena Laubach-Lents, and Kaulder Wayne Laubach-Lents. Dad was more than just a dad, grandpa, or great-grandpa; he was the one you could always turn to for anything, knowing he would help you understand and be the voice of reason to guide you. He was always there throughout life’s journey, from birth to birthdays, crises like ER hospital visits, school programs, sports events, school pickups, and even heartbreaks. I remember the time he came to the rescue when I had a flat tire on a rainy night. Whether it was a call for help with a flat tire, locked keys in the car, a middle-of-the-night bail from jail, help with food, or just needing a hug and someone to listen without judgment, he always shared his life experiences and feelings. He never failed to be there for us. He always loved knowing I was cooking—an inside joke between us. He was my first person to turn to for advice on life’s curveballs and was invaluable to his son and grandsons when it came to understanding boys and teenagers. His wisdom and words, “Always be kind,” still resonate with me. I am deeply grateful for everything he taught us. He will forever be missed and cherished in our hearts.