Britt W. Carlson

In Memory of Britt W. Carlson

Britt W. Carlson was born on April 2, 1947. When he was five years old, his family moved to the Central Coast, which Britt would grow to love deeply. He cherished the region’s rich history, its close-knit local families, and the traditions of hunting and fishing. Most of all, he was drawn to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. He never tired of the view, often watching the waves roll in with quiet appreciation.

As a young teenager, Britt and his lifelong friends experienced the quaint charm of Arroyo Grande from his parents’ and beloved grandmother’s home on Crown Hill. Together, they walked every hill, fished every stream, and formed bonds that lasted a lifetime—brothers not by blood, but by heart.

Britt graduated from Arroyo Grande High School in 1965 and joined the U.S. Army in 1966. He served as a helicopter mechanic and door gunner with the 7th Squadron, 1st Air Cavalry “Blackhawks” during the Vietnam War.

Britt worked in construction as a master craftsman, a trade that came naturally to him, as craftsmanship ran deep in his family. His grandfather was a stonemason who worked at Hearst Castle, and his father was also a local plastering contractor. Britt took great pride in his work and his skill.

In 1974, Britt married Cecilia Carlson. Their 51 years of marriage were filled with love and devotion. Together they raised two daughters, Kendra and Erin. Britt was also a proud grandfather to four grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Britt will be remembered for his quiet strength, loyalty, and deep love for family, friends, and the land he called home. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

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