George O. Carlson, 80, formerly of Newtown, passed away at St Vincent’s Hospital in Bridgeport after a short illness on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Born August 24, 1939, in Jersey City, N.J. to Gladys Elms and Oscar Carlson, he later moved to Darien, where he resided with his mother and stepfather, Harold Elms.

George loved his family and had a special bond with his grandsons, Alex Trompetta and Adam Trompetta. The relationship with his grandsons was a great strength to him while he mourned the loss of his wife, Sandra Carlson, who predeceased him on November 4, 2019.

George had great strength, not just physical — and he was strong — but strength in character. He was someone you wanted in your corner, to cover your back and lean on when you needed help. He had a big, sweeping smile that took in those around him and that showed he appreciated you. George will be incredibly missed by his family and friends. His legacy will be the positive and lasting impact that he had on his grandsons, and the overwhelming love we will always have for him.

George served in the US Army from 1959 to 1962. He was employed with the Southern New England Telephone Company for 29 years and retired after serving as the President of the Connecticut Union of Telephone Workers.

He leaves behind his two daughters Vikki Lynn Carlson and Sandy Carlson; and three grandchildren, Alex and Adam Trompetta, and Adella Dzitko-Carlson.

There are no immediate funeral services but a celebration of George will be held at a later time.