LEONARD "BUD" CARLSON, 71

Passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024.  Born and raised in Joliet.  Employee of Plainfield School District #202.  An avid bowler and longtime bowling league member of the Strike N Spare II in Lockport. A die hard Cubs fan who finally got his 2016 World Series.

Preceded in death by Carl and Agatha Carlson; siblings, Marilyn, Arlene and Dianne.

Survived by his loving children, David (Tammi) Carlson, Paul Carlson and Anne (Trent) Johnson; dearest grandchildren, Ashley (Jeff), D.J., Brittany (Daniel), Dylan, Brooke, David Jr. and Quinn; sister, Linda (Michael); many nieces and nephews.

From Bud's Induction in the Joliet Area USBC Association Hall of Fame in 2022

At the tender age of eleven Bud started bowling at the encouragement of his Mom, who was secretary of a league at Washington Lanes and his Dad who bowled at Jahnke Lanes. His favorite memory from his illustrious bowling career is when he shot 847 at Tinley Bowl, he was denied 900 by 4 ten pins and one slash 7 pin. Bud was the first right-hander to bowl 300 at Galaxy Lanes which coincidently was the second 300 in the first 57 years.

Bud's high averages include 221, 218, 216, 215, 214, and 212. In addition to the 847, he's achieved high series of 810 and 803. Of course, he added five perfect games to the mix for good measure. He captured the Joliet Open Tournament scratch All Events title in the 2020-2021 season and owns a team handicap title in the 1982-1983 campaign. Bud has placed 4th (1990); 9th (1995) and 6th (2021) on the Joliet Area Honor court also in 2021 he was 3rd on the Senior Court.

Bud likes the bowling atmosphere and said "if you bowl good-you bowl good and if you don't-you don't...there's always next week". When he's not bowling, he enjoys a good game of pool and just being around people. He was presented with a "Star" award from the kids at Plainfield School District where he has worked as a custodial engineer since 2013.

In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to the American Cancer Society ( DONATE )

Memorial Visitation Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME 1105 E. 9th St., Lockport.  For Info: (815) 838-5010 or www.oneilfuneralhome.com