Susan Louise Karlson

Susan Louise Karlson, 81, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished above all else. She was born on January 26, 1945 to Edward and Louise Pedersen. Susan built a life defined by love, service, and unwavering dedication to those she held dear. She was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints and was sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple on August 12, 1971 to her devoted husband, Lennart Karlson.

Susan was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose greatest joy came from caring for her family. To Susan, family comes first, and she poured her heart into creating a home filled with support and belonging to everyone, including the friends her children brought home. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she celebrated each of their milestones with pride. No grandchildren were more talented than hers and when it came to her family, they could do no wrong. Serving others was not just something Susan did—it was who she was. Her kindness touched countless lives, and her example continues to inspire those who knew her.

Susan attended Twin Falls High School and after graduating from Brigham Young University, Susan began her career as a high school English teacher. Entrepreneurial by nature, she later opened a tutoring business and welcomed young students into her home, where she shared her love of learning. She also contributed to the family business and eventually established her own stores in Bountiful, Clearfield, and Layton —Pedersen’s Ski & Sports—where she worked proudly alongside her sons.

Susan enjoyed people and made friends wherever she went. She cherished her close-knit circle of friends and looked forward to their regular lunch gatherings. Some of her dearest friendships were with her cousins, with whom she shared a lifelong bond. She often spoke about her family, recounting stories of her parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. Each held a special spot in her heart. Susan attended family events whenever she could, and when she wasn’t able to be there in person, she made sure her the family knew how deeply she loved them and how proud she was of each of them.

She is survived by her husband, Lennart Karlson; her four children, Jared (Kellie) Karlson, LeeAnn (Danny) McPolin, Tyler (Nicole) Karlson, and Jane (Shane) Plummer; as well as 15 grandchildren, 17 great‑grandchildren, and two great‑great‑grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Ken (Trudy) Pedersen, Kerry Pedersen, and Sherrie Slusser.

Susan’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and quiet strength. She often spoke of looking forward to a joyful reunion with the many loved ones who had gone before her, a hope that brought her comfort and peace.