Carl August Nelson

      Carl August Nelson, Jr. was born a miracle baby at under 2 lbs on 05/01/1959 in Duluth, MN and blessed us with his presence until November 12th around 2pm where he passed away at St. Luke’s Hospital. Not much is known about Carl’s childhood, but he met Mr. Mike Taylor when he resided in the Moose Lake State Hospital where Mike cared for Carl for 18 years. Mike Taylor opened his own home in 1993, the Hagberg House, where Carl eventually moved into in 2006, and has been with us for 18 years. 

      Carl had a wonderful guardian, Mary Holschuh, who always looked out for him, had lovely ideas on how to improve his life, and cared for him with all of his best interests in mind. Carl lived a life where he touched many caregivers’ hearts, and posed a deviant trickster challenge to all who knew him. Carl has always been feisty and it’s known that he was rather sneaky and quite mobile in his younger years, despite being blind. There were times where Carl had disappeared, only to be found in a housemate’s closet hiding amongst the stuffed animals, and snuggling. After residing at other homes Carl eventually moved into Taylor SLS, Inc ~ Hagberg House in 2006. Carl has been with us for 18 years, and was very loved by his staff, often playfully pinching, giggling, snuggling. 

      Carl didn’t have much known biological family involvement throughout the years, although he did have a sister, Debbie Rains, who preceded him in death in 2020. Carl’s caregivers were his closest family throughout the years, and there are many stories to share about Carl’s unique character, his perfectly timed laughs (he definitely understood us all), the love and hugs he gave others, along with his sneaky playful pinches, and amazing snuggles. We will all miss Carl’s raspberry blowing, TIGGER giggle, and cuddles, immensely. Carl will be greatly missed, but he is now up in heaven, free, and will live on through all of our hearts. He will always be my favorite. <3 

      Please come share your stories and join us to celebrate Carl's unique and touching life on Monday November 25th at 2pm at Dougherty's Funeral Home, 600 E Second Street, Duluth, MN.