ANTRIM — Kelly J. Carlson, 66, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Paula; three sons, Kelly Jr., Morgan and Damian; and his granddaughter, Hollis.

Born in Providence, R.I., Carlson earned his degree from Providence College before joining the military. He served as a member of the U.S. Armed Special Forces and the Rhode Island National Guard MTU. Upon the completion of his service, Kelly began a distinguished career in the insurance industry, retiring as a senior executive from Phoenix Home Life in 2000.

Following their dreams, Kelly and Paula relocated to a beautiful farm in southern New Hampshire surrounded by spectacular views and the horses, dogs and wildlife that they loved so dearly. Carlson turned a life-long hobby of knife making into a second career. He hand crafted hundreds of decorative collectors knives sold the world over under the name Carlson Knives.

When not in his workshop, Carlson could be found hiking in the woods with his dogs or working on his farm with Paula. Riding his motorcycles, skiing, scuba diving and target shooting were other favorite pastimes.

Carlson was a man of unmatched integrity. His immeasurable love and dedication to his family and friends will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA or the North Shore Animal League.