Right-wing commentator Tucker Carlson, known for his long tenure on Fox News and his own media ventures, recently shared on X the heartbreaking news of his father’s passing. Richard “Dick” Warner Carlson, whom Tucker called “the toughest person in the world,” passed away peacefully at his home in Boca Grande, Florida, surrounded by his children.
Dick Carlson’s life was as remarkable as it was inspiring. Like his son, he began his career as a reporter before stepping onto the international stage as U.S. Ambassador to the Seychelles during President George H. W. Bush’s administration. Earlier, under President Ronald Reagan, he served as Director of Voice of America, shaping the voice of America overseas.
In a tender tribute, Tucker revealed his father’s deep love for dogs and incredible strength during his final days: “After six weeks of illness, he refused all painkillers, departing this world with dignity and clarity, holding the hands of his children with his beloved dogs at his feet.”
Born February 10, 1941, in Massachusetts, Dick’s early life was marked by hardship. His Swedish-speaking teenage mother placed him in a Boston orphanage. Raised in a series of foster homes before being adopted, he was expelled from school at 17 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps — a testament to his resilience and grit.
Tucker reflected on his father’s unique spirit: “He was a free thinker and compulsive reader, even flipping through books at red lights. His personal library contained thousands of volumes — many dog-eared, filled with handwritten notes. His broad knowledge and life experiences led him to believe in God. An outlaw spirit tempered by decency.”
Dick’s career took him around the globe, interacting with numerous world leaders. Tucker noted, “He was fundamentally nonjudgmental and difficult to shock, always speaking of people with amused affection.”
A devoted single father, Dick raised his sons alone after his wife left for Europe to pursue a bohemian lifestyle, according to Tucker. He often took his sons on reporting trips and shared wisdom around the dinner table — covering topics from the French Revolution and Bolshevik Russia to PG Wodehouse and the enduring essence of humanity.
In 1979, Dick married Patricia Swanson, heiress to the Swanson Foods fortune. Tucker fondly remembered, “They shared 44 joyful years together. Patricia passed away sixteen months before Dad, and he grieved her every day.”
Dick Carlson leaves behind two sons, five grandchildren, and a daughter-in-law. His legacy is one of resilience, intellect, love, and quiet strength.
May Richard “Dick” Warner Carlson rest in peace.
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With love and peace,
