Geoffrey W Carlson

MISSOULA- Geoffrey W. Carlson, 81, of Missoula passed away peacefully at his home on January 4, 2024.

Geoff was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated from Washburn High School and attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. He was a strong athlete and played multiple sports including football, hockey, and rugby. In 1961, Geoff joined the military serving in the U.S. Army. After two years of service, he went to work for an architectural firm in Minneapolis while pursuing many jobs outside his field. He had a great love for the outdoors and was a “jack of all trades.” Preferring to live close to nature, Geoff moved to Montana in the late 1970s. He worked as a logger and lived off the grid in a makeshift tent for a number of years. Geoff then settled in Missoula where he was dedicated to his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. In the 1990s, he got a job with OZ Architects, then eventually started his own architecture company. He was a proficient and prolific designer and much of his work is exhibited in Missoula’s homes, buildings and infrastructure. Geoff volunteered in the community, and over the last three decades, helped dozens of people in recovery.

Geoff had a deep love of the mountains, especially the woods and streams of the Rocky Mountain West. Though very independent, he cherished the company of his many friends and rescue dogs. He could often be found playing racquetball, golfing, cycling, skiing, and hiking—and would cheerfully greet the people and animals he encountered on the trail. Geoff was clever and always had a twinkle in his eye, a laugh to share, and dog treats in his pocket. He was helpful to his friends and generous in the community. We will miss his unique and beautiful bright light.

Geoff was preceded in death by his parents Frances and Walter Carlson, and sister Karen McCann Humphrey. He is survived by one sister, Lynn Carlson Bloom (Robert); nephews Clifford Bloom, Corey Bloom and Christopher McCann; niece Kersten Farrar; and “Little Brother” Jake.   

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory in Missoula.