Carolyn Thurston

Carolyn Marie Thurston peacefully passed away Monday the 19th of October 2015 in the company of her husband and children.

Those that were close to her will remember her devotion to family and her warm yet witty demeanor. She never aspired to climb the corporate ladder nor to conquer the world. Instead, she chose a path in which she could help the people that were in her life. Whether they were members in her community or in her own family, Carol was always willing to lend a hand. Close family will always remember her youthful persona, her beautiful smile, and her quirky turn-of-phrase. She was the cornerstone and matriarch of her family and will be dearly missed.

Carol suffered a tragic loss in 1992 when her first-born son Brian was taken far too soon. As a result of this loss, she gained strength through her children, and forged an unbreakable bond between herself and her immediate family. She committed her life to being involved in every detail of her children's lives and was so very proud of whom they had become. In 2000 she met the love of her life. Together, they created a home and watched as their children created families of their own. Her grandchildren were a constant source of joy and she was delighted to be able to watch them grow. It is unfortunate that she will not be able to physically see them come to maturity, but she will always be a part of their lives. She will live in our hearts in our minds and in our stories. She was a wonderful soul who will never be forgotten.

Carolyn is survived by her husband, Michael Thurston of Backus; children: Dean Martin (Kymm) of Esko, Kris Martin (Stacy) of Baxter, Jamie Dabill (Brandon) of Pequot Lakes, Danielle Schrupp (Jeremy) of Duluth; two step children, Kevin Thurston of Chaska, Aimee Thurston of Eden Prairie; ten grandchildren, Arron, Kolton, Sage, Brianna, Kellie, Selvin, Owen, Dawson, Brooklynn and Donivon; and three sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and son, Brian.
Services will be 2 PM on Saturday, October 24, at Kline Funeral Home, Pine River. Visitation will be from Noon - 2 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.