Walter A. Carlson

Walter A. Carlson, age 85, of Plainfield, passed away Thursday, October 22, 2026 in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

He was born March 31, 1941, in Janesville, Wisconsin, the son of Chris and Helen (Scott) Carlson. Walter graduated from Janesville High School and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. He married his first wife, Maxine Giese; she preceded him in death. He later married Virginia Raasch, she also preceded him in death.

Walter was a very active and hardworking man who had a lifelong love for nature and the outdoors. He had a special place in his heart for all living creatures, especially birds, horses, goats, squirrels, spiders, and just about any critter that crossed his path. In Walter's eyes, every creature deserved a home and a little kindness.

In 1978, Walter turned his passion for nature and wildlife into a business when he founded Wisconsin Spray Millet. What began as a small garden grew into the largest spray millet packaging operation in the world. For more than 47 years, Walter dedicated himself to perfecting the art of growing, drying, and packaging millet. His hard work, determination, and love for birds and animals became the foundation of a successful business.

Walter will be remembered for his remarkable work ethic, his entrepreneurial spirit, and, above all, his genuine love and compassion for animals and the natural world. He found joy in the simple wonders of nature and believed that every living creature had a place in this world.

Walter is survived by his daughter, Britt Rain; two sisters, Christina Welcenbach and Virginia Nitz; his stepdaughter, Janelle Kollock; numerous step grandchildren and his special friends, Kirby Metoxen, Diane Tovan and Bridget and Ethan Olson along with his many special employees. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his two wives, Maxine and Virginia and a stepdaughter, Lori Giese.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 a.m. with a prayer service at 12:30 p.m. in the Stahl Funeral Home, Plainfield. Additional services will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church, 17 N Jackson St. Janesville, WI 53548 with visitation from 10:30 a.m. with services to follow at 12:30 p.m. Walter will be laid to rest in the Emerald Grove Cemetery, Janesville.  Honoring Walter will be pallbearers, Danny Devoe, Michael Nitz, Terry Farago, Ryan Heerer, Eligah Metoxen.