With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the death of Christian LaCelle Carlson, age 58, who passed away on July 14, 2026, following a courageous battle with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Christian was born on December 10, 1967, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He cherished memories of growing up in St. George, Utah, San Jose, California, and Park City, Utah, where he graduated from Park City High School in 1986. Just one week after graduation, he began the call to serve his country by entering the United States Marine Corps. He later served with honor during the Gulf War, beginning a lifetime dedicated to service.

Christian served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the California Fresno Mission, where he lovingly ministered to Hmong refugees from Laos. His mission strengthened the faith that would remain the guiding influence throughout his life.

Christian pursued his love of science and learning at Brigham Young University, earning both bachelor's and master's degrees in Zoology. He then attended the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences as an Army officer, earning his Doctor of Medicine degree. He completed his internship and radiology residency at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, followed by a fellowship in pediatric radiology at Boston Children's Hospital.

After an honorable military career, retiring as a Colonel, he completed a second fellowship in pediatric neuroradiology at Cincinnati Children's Hospital before joining Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City.

Medicine was more than a profession to Christian—it was a calling. He found deep purpose in caring for children and approached every patient with compassion, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He believed every child's life was precious and considered it a privilege to serve the families who placed their trust in his care.

While his professional accomplishments were remarkable, Christian's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Amy, and a loving father whose greatest happiness came from spending time with his children. Whether cheering on the San Antonio Spurs, skiing Utah's mountains, traveling to new places, camping beneath the stars, or enjoying the beauty of God's creations, Christian found joy in sharing life's adventures with those he loved.

Those who knew Christian will remember his quick wit, warm smile, and the genuine kindness with which he greeted everyone. He had an extraordinary attention to detail, unwavering integrity, remarkable determination, and perseverance. His cheerful "How are you?" reflected a sincere interest in others, making each person feel seen and valued. Above all, he will be remembered for his steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, his pure heart, and the love he so freely gave to his family, friends, colleagues, patients, and country.

Christian is survived by his loving wife, Amy Carlson; his children, Ethan Carlson (Rebekah), Aiden Carlson, Preston Carlson, Keenen Carlson, Lillian Carlson, and Jaron Carlson; his mother, Susan Carlson (Reid); his siblings, Holly Kuhn (Bret), David Carlson, Mitch Carlson (Nikki), and Mandi Durocher (David); along with many extended family members, dear friends, and colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Carlson.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at 510 Silver Summit Parkway, Park City, Utah, followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Midway Cemetery, 600 W. 500 S., Midway, Utah.

Christian's life was defined by faith, service, love, and strength. Though he will be deeply missed, his example lives on in the countless lives he touched—as a husband, father, son, brother, physician, soldier, and disciple of Jesus Christ. His legacy of compassion, integrity, and enduring love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. His life reminds us to live every moment to the fullest!