Linda Carlson-Newell

Linda Carlson-Newell, 54, of Kalamazoo, passed away on June 29, 2017, at Rose Arbor Hospice surrounded by her family. Linda was born on May 6, 1963, in St. Joseph to Gordon & Patricia (Fehlberg) Carlson. She received her Master’s Degree in Counseling Education from Western Michigan University. Linda was a retired teacher from Battle Creek Central High School & former assistant principal at Calhoun Area Tech Center. She was an amazing teacher who was loved by her colleagues and students. She grew up in a big family the fourth of ten children in St. Joseph. Her childhood was full of the beach, sand, swimming, paintings & dogs.  Most content with a swimsuit on, her high school summers were spent on the beaches as a lifeguard.  During high school Linda found a love for the arts and her creativity and talent flowed into everything she touched. Her paintings were beautiful and carefully crafted.  Linda will be remembered by her infectious smile that lit up a room and her great energy. Her favorite quote was “when words fail, music speaks”. Linda’s greatest love was her children. Linda is survived by her children; Sarah Jo Newell, Blake Dylan Newell & Abigail Laine Newell all of Portage; her mother Patricia Carlson of Benton Harbor; siblings, Nancy (Bob) Bowes of Benton Harbor, Bruce Carlson of Idaho Springs, CO, Beth (Jason) Carlson-Gaddis of Windsor, VT, Blair Carlson of San Antonio, TX, Karin (Jim) Fender of Portage, Diane (Mike) Santman of Schoolcraft, MI, Christine (Leif) Norland of St. Joseph, Becky (Chris) Myers of Hamilton, MI & Grant (Valerie) Carlson of Gobles, MI and 18 nieces and nephews and many friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Gordon Carlson, Jr., grandparents Gordon Carlson, Sr., Dorothy Carlson & Blossom & Fred Fehlberg Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.