He was born Feb. 3, 1927, in San Jose, Calif., son of the late Percy Carlsson and Esther Anderson Carlsson.

Al served in the U.S. Navy before furthering his education. He earned a BA and an MA from Wheaton College and a Ph.D. from Northwestern University. He married Marian Carlson in 1952. They moved to Lexington in 1961 when Al joined the VMI faculty; he served as both professor and as registrar for 32 years until his retirement.

Al was a longtime member of the Fortnightly Club and also served on the board of the Garth Newel Music Center for many years, some of them as treasurer. Al enjoyed reading, gardening, concerts, traveling and volunteering.

Al was predeceased by his wife, Marian, his parents and his sister.

He is survived by his nieces, Pat (Michael) Thorsen and Sue (Gary) Judson, all of Chicago, and his nephew, David Palmer (Michele), of San Diego, and their families.

To honor Al’s wishes there will be no funeral services.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Garth Newel Music Center, 403 Garth Newel Lane, Hot Springs, VA 24445 or Rockbridge Regional Library, 138 S. Main St., Lexington, VA 24450.

Arrangements are by Harrison

Funeral Home & Crematory. NG