Obituary of Carol Ann Abelson

Carol Ann Abelson, 76 of Brooklyn Park, passed away on Monday, July 3, 2023, following a prolonged illness. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 29—with visitation at 10 a.m. and a luncheon to follow the service—at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7835 Brooklyn Boulevard in Brooklyn Park. A private graveside service will be held in the St. Bridget’s Catholic Cemetery in DeGraff, MN, at a later date.

Carol is survived by her two children, Andrew Abelson of Foreston, MN, and Sarah (Eric) Eelkema of Brooklyn Park, MN; her sister Peggy (Bill) Cain of Fargo, ND; and her niece and nephews. She was preceeded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Lola (Smith) Clemen, and her brother Jim Clemen.

After growing up in DeGraff, Carol moved to the Twin Cities following her high school graduation, she and girlfriends having used their “senior skip day” to secure a job with the phone company. Her career with the former Northwestern Bell/US West/Qwest spanned nearly four decades, and she brought her strong work ethic to a variety of administrative roles. Carol lived the majority of her adult life in Crystal, MN, where she raised her two children, Andy and Sarah. She was a fiercely dedicated and protective mother, ensuring her kids had the best opportunities in life. A lover of animals, she adored and was adored by her numerous grand-dogs and -cats. Books played a prominent role in Carol’s life. Those who knew her best know she always had a book on hand, “just in case,” and loved to make recommendations to fellow readers. Generous and kind-hearted, she volunteered her time with the Pioneers Hug-A-Bears program, creating cuddly toys for children in traumatic situations, and gave generously to many worthy causes. Carol spent her final years enjoying retirement, which included connecting with her many life-long friends as well as new ones she made as part of the Tradition Independent/Assisted Living community. Much admired for her quiet dignity and strength of character, Carol will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.