Carolyn A. Ketchel

Carolyn Ann Ketchel (nee Schmidt), affectionately known as Carol, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on February 13, 2024. Born to Anton and Dotty (nee Wiechman) Schmidt on July 3, 1953 at the University of MN Hospital in Minneapolis, Carol was the oldest of 8 siblings and took much joy in spending time with family, planning special events and carrying out family traditions.

Carol graduated from Simley High School in Inver Grove Heights, MN and went to St. Cloud University briefly before starting a very successful 40+ year career as a content specialist and team leader for Thomsen-Reuter Corporation (previously West Publishing Company). She was also very active in work sponsored events including the golf and bowling leagues and Red Hat Society. To celebrate her retirement, Carol and her sisters traveled to Great Britain, France and Germany.

Carol was united in marriage to Richard Ketchel on July 25, 1976, and they resided in Circle Pines, MN. Their pride and joy was son Jeffrey who has become their best friend and caretaker during the latter years of their lives. Carol’s family has many fond memories of spending time at their Lake Lily cabin, family trips and get-togethers, and special sister outings.

Carol was preceded in death by her father Anton; nephew Douglas Schmidt; and niece Lauren Schulte. 

She is survived by her husband Rick and son Jeff; her mother Dotty; her 7 siblings, Tim (Berghetta) Schmidt, Bev (Kevin) Schulte, Sue (Don) Hill, Mary Beth (Joel) Forseth, Sarah (Gary) Kopp, Dan (Jerri) Schmidt, and Joe (Wendy) Schmidt; and 17 nephews/nieces, Tony (Sara), Tim Jr. (Sam), Ed (Heather), Kim (Josh), Joe (Jiaqi), Sarah (Greg), David, Katie (Aaron), John (Katie), Sean (Lauren), Bridget (Jake), Erin, Alaina (Drew), Olivia, Jon, Alex and Will; and a large extended family of grand-nieces/ nephews and cousins.

A special thank you to the staff at J.A. Wedum Residential Hospice in Brooklyn Park, MN for making Carol’s final weeks meaningful and comfortable.

A celebration of Carol’s life will be planned in the near future. Those desiring to make contributions in her memory are encourage to donate to a charity or hospice of their choice.