Bruce S. Carlson, 67, of Belvidere, Illinois, died Friday, November 18, 2011 in his home surrounded by his family following a three month illness. Bruce was born on December 26, 1943 in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Olaf and Vivian (Brodine) Carlson. Bruce was married to Leita M. Pitner on February 24, 1968 in Rockford, Illinois. Bruce was a switching technician for Verizon for 40 years. He loved his Longaberger Basket business as well as working on cars, making trips to Dresden, Ohio for baskets, fishing and helping with Junior Achievement while representing GTE. Bruce was a member of Zion Lutheran Church. He is suvived by his wife, Leita; three children, Ingrid (Randy) Emery, Linda Carlson and Stephen Carlson; two grandchildren, Haley and Alex Emery; a brother, David Carlson. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Rodney Carlson.

Memorials to the family in his name.