John "Johnny" Carlson, youngest son of Henry and Frances Carlson, was born January 7, 1936, in Bloomington, Illinois. In 1951, after spending his early years in the surrounds of Illinois/Indiana, the family moved to Daytona Beach where John attended Mainland High School. Being a sports enthusiast, John played both baseball and basketball at Mainland. After graduating in 1954, he entered the U.S. Air Force completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base and proudly served on active duty in Germany until 1958. He completed his Air Force obligation in 1962 with the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his time in Germany, John met and married the love of his life, Katharina (Kathi) and remained devoted to her for 68 years of marriage. He often said she was the best thing that ever happened. Upon returning stateside, Johnny enrolled at the newly founded Daytona Beach Junior College and graduated in the first inaugural class with his Associate of Arts Degree. Next, to Flavet Village where he and Kathi lived while John studied at the University of Florida, earning both his bachelor's and master's degree in education and becoming a lifelong fan of Florida Gator sports. Returning to his alma mater, Mainland High School, John taught from 1963-1993, serving many years as Social Studies Department Chairman. John loved teaching and was known for his storytelling. In addition, he served many years, initially as an adjunct professor and later, Evening Coordinator of the Adult Education Program at Daytona Beach Community College. Aside from family & friends, John loved traveling, learning languages and playing the piano. Mostly self-taught, John was proficient in Spanish, German, Russian, and Hungarian. If you met up with him, he was probably wearing his Retired Air Force cap, carrying his Russian or Hungarian language flashcards and ready to regale you with stories of his world travels. If you were a former student, he would likely remember your name and graduating class, having an incredible memory. His family will remember his devotion, quirky sense of humor, generosity, authentic interest in people's lives, and genuine passion for learning that made him such a great teacher. He is survived by his wife, Katharina, two daughters, Kimberly (Dan), and Karina (Patrick), 3 grandchildren, Kendall, John and Samuel and great granddaughter, Juliette. A celebration of his life will be Friday, August 22nd at 11:00 at Grace Episcopal Church, 4110 S. Ridgewood Ave, Port Orange. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the D.A.V. or Wounded Warriors.