Carol J. Nelson

About Carol

We are sad to announce the passing of our trailblazing, independent, generous, loving, dancing queen mom, Carol Jean (Thorpe) Nelson, 88, of Park Rapids, MN on December 20, 2024, at the Cottages at Heritage Living Center.

Carol was born on September 1, 1936, in Fargo, ND to Eugene J. Thorpe and Alvina (Virnig) Thorpe and spent her childhood in Fargo. After graduating from Fargo High School in 1954 and going to Secretarial School, Carol met Keith L. Woods at New York Life Insurance Company in Fargo. Carol and Keith married on May 19, 1956 and had three daughters: Kimberly (George) Toops, New London; Kay (Bill) Dent, Park Rapids; Kerry

(Scott) Johnson, Park Rapids.

After living in Fargo, Minot, and New Hope, the Woods family moved to Park Rapids in 1966. In Park Rapids, Carol found life-long friends who were always ready for a bridge game, bowling league, or dancing. Fitness became important to Carol in her early 40s. Jim

Klobuchar bike rides across MN, Firecracker 4th of July races, running Grandma’s Marathon, and winning her age group in the Nevis Triathlon at 70 were some of her favorite memories.

On October 7, 1988, Carol married Levoine (Swede) Nelson in Park River, ND. After living in Detroit Lakes for a few years, they moved to Park Rapids where they enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and attending grandchildren's events. From sporting events to choir concerts to any school activity, they were there to support the grandkids. Nothing made Carol happier than when shopping, sharing lunch, and spending time with her family.

Carol is survived by her three daughters and their husbands, eleven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, and her brother and sister.

As per her request, there will not be a public memorial service. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date including music, dancing, and family time.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Cottages at Heritage Living Center and CHI St. Joseph's Health Hospice.

memorial service

Private family memorial will be held at a later date.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home