Dr. Edward W. Carlson, 94, Long-Time Mt. Ida College Executive

Dr. Edward W. Carlson, 94, long-time Newton resident, passed away May 12 in Ocala, Fla.

Carlson and his family are responsible for the founding of two colleges, Mt. Ida Junior College in Newton (now Mt. Ida College) and Flagler College in St. Augustine, Fla., his obituary reads.

Carlson dedicated his career to education and the prospering of Mt. Ida College, supporting three of his family members -- his father, brother and son -- as presidents of Mt. Ida. He, himself, served as a senior executive at Mount Ida College until retiring in 1999.

Throughout his long career, Carlson came to be known as Dr. Ed, according to his obituary, and was never shy to take part in any role that supported Mt. Ida, including mowing lawns, painting buildings and moving furniture into dormitories.

Carlson is survived by his spouse, Marianne; his son, Bryan; his daughter, Ingrid; and his daughter-in-law, Anne as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and step-children.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ocala Hospice Marion, 3231 South West 34th Ave Ocala, Florida 34474; and 1st Congregational Church and United Church of Christ, 7171 South West St Road 200 Ocala, Florida 34476.