James Herbert Carlson

James Herbert Carlson of Dardenne Prairie, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on December 17, 1941, in Cicero, Illinois, son of Raymond and Evelyn Carlson. 

A lifelong learner with an engineer’s mind and a servant’s heart, James graduated from Morton High School in 1959 before attending Purdue University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He continued his education at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, receiving a Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering - Astronautical Sciences. Later, he completed a Masters of Business Administration from St. Louis University. 

In 1965, James began his distinguished career at McDonnell Aircraft, where he not only contributed his technical expertise but also met the love of his life, Linda Rutherford. The two were married on May 19, 1973, and together raised their two children, Brian and Jennifer. James and Linda recently celebrated 52 beautiful years of marriage.  

During his career, James earned the honor of being inducted as a Technical Fellow in 2006 and later retired from Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas) in 2012 after 47 years of dedicated service to the aerospace industry. 

Faith played a central role in James’s life. He was an active member of St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Florissant for many years. His service included teaching Sunday School, leading youth groups, and chairing the Finance Committee.  After moving to Lake St. Louis Jim and Linda joined Dardenne Presbyterian Church, where he served faithfully as an Elder.  

James lived a full and joyful life, embracing each day with positivity and gratitude. He enjoyed jogging, swimming at the YMCA, bike riding, traveling to Florida, and taking cruises. Family gatherings were among his greatest joys, and he made it a point to offer a kind compliment to those around him every day. Above all, nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his grandchildren. 

James is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Carlson (née Rutherford); his children, Jennifer (Craig) Wagner and Brian (Meg) Carlson and, both of O'Fallon, MO; his brother, John (Cathy) Carlson of Westminster, CA; and his six grandchildren, Dylan Carlson, Jessica Wagner, Haylee Carlson, Rylee Carlson, Luke Wagner, and Allison Wagner. He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond H. Carlson and Evelyn Marie Carlson (née Kniffin). 

James will be remembered for his kind spirit, his devotion to family and faith, and the gentle way he lifted others up. 

Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of James in care of Pitman Funeral Home P.O. Box 248 Wentzville, MO 63385

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Herbert Carlson, please visit our floral store.