Elisabeth "Liz" Ann Carlson

Elisabeth “Liz” Ann Crabb Carlson, 86, of Eaton, CO, passed away from a sudden illness on October 1, 2025. Liz was born in Newport News, VA, September 21, 1939 to Jarred V. and Eleanor (Shelter) Crabb. She grew up in a military family traveling all over the United States and the Asian Pacific while her father was deployed. She went to 17 different schools before graduating from Grandview High School in Grandview, Missouri. Liz had a storied life that many would not know from meeting her, a very humble woman. Her father was a high-ranking commanding officer in the Air Force with commands in the Philippines, Japan, South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, Texas, Colorado, Missouri, Washington DC and back to Colorado. During war times, she lived in Chicago with relatives. Liz met four U.S. Presidents, dated a Prince as a teenager, and met many famous celebrities at the time to include Charles Lindburg (a frequent family friend) and Greta Garbo. When her parents moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, she went to Colorado University (CU) were she met Jerry D. Carlson on a blind date. In May 1962, they married and moved to the Carlson family farm in Eaton, Colorado. Liz took great pride in being a wife and mother, as well as helping with the farm, irrigating, feeding, cooking and held several jobs in and around Eaton. After the farm sold in 1986, Liz entered the public workforce and held many different roles to include supervising. Those who worked under her knew not to mess with Liz! She worked for CHAFA, Wheeler Management, English Burns, Prudential Real Estate, and Sykes in Greeley. Liz was tenacious and passionate about work and made many life-long friends during her careers. The friendships she made in the Northern Colorado area were many and great. Not many can say they didn’t know “Little Liz” without a smile. She could be seen walking around town with her dog “Blue” that was bigger than her. She had a smile and sweet conversation for anyone who would make eye contact with her. Those that met her would never forget the spunky little lady with the bright eyes and sunny personality. Liz also grew to love hockey, GO Avs! Liz adored her grandchildren and was an amazing cook. Often whipping up some delicious Swedish or German cuisine that became a holiday tradition. Many times, the grandkids would be invited to her home to assist with cookie making, and she always had an amazing sampling of homemade jams and baked breads that she was more than happy to share with anyone. Her favorite treats were any kind of cheese and a daily dose of chocolate. Liz was an incredible quilter, award winning stitcher, library member and avid church attendee. She was an unwavering Christian with deep faith. The extensive use, wear and notes in her Bible are proof of that. She did not know the word “NO” and would never slowdown in her service to the church, community and her friends. Survivors include her son, Mathew of Eaton; two grandchildren, Travis of Eaton, Colorado and Sydney of Greeley, Colorado; a brother, Jarred (wife, Milli) Crabb of Columbus, Ohio; daughter-in-law, Heather of Greeley, Colorado; brother-in-law, Jack Houchen of Michigan; and the Swain Family. In addition, she leaves behind many extended family and beloved lifelong friends. Elisabeth is preceded in death by her parents, Jarred and Eleanor; special aunt, Hattie; husband, Jerry D.; sister-in-law, Susan Houchen; other extended family; and numerous beloved pets that she took such wonderful care of and brought her much joy. Services to honor Liz will be held Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Eaton Community Church, 1561 Benjamin Drive, Eaton, CO. Reception to follow. Please feel free to wear Colorado Avalanche apparel as Liz was a huge fan. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eaton Community Church.

Tributes

Elisabeth "Liz" Ann Carlson

September 21, 1939 - October 1, 2025