Richard "Dick" Carlson, a renowned figure in journalism and diplomacy, has died at the age of 84.
According to the Daily Caller, in his touching obituary, Tucker Carlson commemorates his father’s profound impact on journalism and his admirable personal virtues.
Born on February 10, 1941, in Massachusetts, Richard Carlson's early years were marked by challenges, including time spent in foster homes before his adoption by the Carlson family. His life was shaped by these early experiences, cultivating a resilience that would characterize his impressive career.
At the young age of 17, Carlson's path took a pivotal turn when he joined the U.S. Marine Corps after being expelled from school, an experience that instilled in him a profound sense of discipline and duty. This foundational period preceded his varied roles across journalism and public service. Following his military service, Richard Carlson ventured west to California in 1962, where he initially worked as a merchant seaman. His career transitioned to journalism soon after, leading him to significant roles as an investigative reporter and anchor for ABC News.
In the realm of broadcasting and diplomacy, Carlson made notable contributions, including his directorship at the Voice of America. His tenure under President Ronald Reagan's administration was marked by a diplomatic assignment as the U.S. Ambassador to the Seychelles, accumulating a wealth of international experience and stories.
Throughout his career, Richard Carlson encountered many global leaders, which enriched his perspective and approach to both journalism and diplomacy. His work allowed him to immerse himself in diverse cultures and political environments across various countries.
Aside from his professional life, Carlson was deeply committed to his family. His life took a dramatic turn in 1975 when his wife moved to Europe and did not return. This left him to raise his two young sons, Tucker and Buckley, on his own, a challenge he embraced wholeheartedly.
Richard Carlson was known for his profound parental involvement, often integrating his sons into his professional travels. These experiences were not only bonding moments but educational opportunities, sparking detailed discussions on a vast array of topics during lengthy family dinners.
His intellectual curiosity was insatiable. Carlson was a fervent reader whose expansive home library contained thousands of books, many annotated extensively. These readings reinforced his spiritual beliefs and carved out his philosophically rich outlook on life. Known for his kind and loyal nature, Carlson's values resonated strongly with those around him. His lifestyle and beliefs mirrored the traits of an independent thinker who followed a moral compass grounded in respect and decency.
Richard Carlson spent his final days at his home in Boca Grande, Florida, surrounded by his loving family and beloved dogs. His passing on March 24, 2025, followed a six-week battle with illness during which he refused pain relief, maintaining his dignity and clarity up until the end. The identity that Carlson forged as a journalist and diplomat was overshadowed only by his role as a father and grandfather. His narrative was shared by Tucker Carlson, who, through an obituary, painted a picture of a man with a robust spirit balanced by a profound decency.
Surviving Richard Carlson are his two sons, Tucker and Buckley, his daughter-in-law Susie, and five grandchildren, all of whom bear the legacy of his adventurous spirit and enduring values. His life represents a powerful story of resilience, intellectual pursuit, and heartfelt paternal care.
The life of Richard Carlson, layered with professional achievements and profound personal bonds, leaves a lasting imprint on his family and the fields he touched. As the world remembers him, his story continues to inspire those who value the intertwining of personal integrity and public service.
His profound influence extends beyond his immediate family, touching everyone from colleagues in journalism and diplomacy to friends and extended community members who had the privilege of knowing him. Richard Carlson's life story is a testament to the deep impact one individual can have through a lifetime of dedication and love.
As his family moves forward, they carry with them the strength and wisdom imparted by Carlson—a legacy of intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, and an uncompromising dedication to family.