Jacob Robert Carlson

Jacob Robert Carlson, age 18, of Hayward, Minnesota, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, after a six-month battle with schizophrenia. Jacob was born on September 22, 2007, in Austin, Minnesota, to Chad and Dawn (Schewe) Carlson. He was currently a senior at Austin High School.

Jacob had a remarkable curiosity and a deep knowledge of the most obscure subjects. At eight, he would say, “Ask me anything about ants!” In recent years, he developed a strong interest in the stock market and global politics, offering insight into topics most teenagers would not give a second thought. His free spirit made him wonderfully unique, and his stubbornness was part of his strength. Jacob was fiercely loyal and protective of those he loved, always making it clear he would stand by his friends and family no matter what.

He loved playing video games, especially Rocket League and Rust, and felt most at home entertaining large groups of friends. Naturally intelligent, Jacob also enjoyed playing chess and teasing his siblings. His nonconforming nature encouraged others to embrace their individuality. If you want to understand who Jacob truly was, just ask his friends to share a Jacob story—there are many, and each one reflects his humor, loyalty, and unforgettable spirit.

Jacob is survived by his parents, Chad and Dawn of Hayward; his siblings, Amber (Issac) Meyer, Brandon, and Ruthie; his niece, Stevie; his maternal grandparents, David and Diane Schewe; his paternal grandparents, Karen and Thomas Morehouse, and Richard “Smokey” Carlson; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

Jacob’s final act of kindness was to give the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Cornerstone Church in Austin. Visitation will take place from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin and will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Instead of flowers, the family requests donations in Jacob’s name. The family plans to use these contributions in a meaningful way to honor Jacob’s life and memory.

Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.