Carol Ann Helgeson

Celebrated: The Animated Journey of Carol

The world got a little bit quieter and a lot less adventurous with the passing of Carol -- a legendary mother, English teacher, and spirited soul. She didn't just live life; she grabbed it and took it for a spin.

True to her favorite Robert Frost poem, Carol looked at the two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and chose the one less traveled by – ideally if it was paved, perfect for a motorcycle, which was one of her favorite activities shared with her husband, Blayne.

A natural social butterfly who always had a story to tell or a joke to share. Carol was at the center of the room, lighting it up with her trademark spunk and humor. That legendary charisma even made her a regional celebrity as the official "Kroll's Lady", she starred in television advertisements for Kroll's Diner…playfully ordering generations of hungry patrons to “sit down und eat”.

Her life was defined by her adventures on the motorcycle and camping with her family, a deep love for animals, a zest for adventure and a strong faith in Christ.

Mom would often respond that she didn’t live alone – she lived with 2 cats and the Lord.

She was a dedicated English teacher, and she channeled her passion into her students by encouraging her students to embrace experiences, enjoy life, and seek out their own adventures.

Carol leaves behind a family well-schooled in proper grammar, the art of a good punchline, and the beauty of an adventure. Her legacy lives on through her surviving children, Sheila, Tom and Callie, and her cherished grandchildren, Kevin, Matthew, Wren and spouse, June; and her constant loyal companions ---two cats and many grand dogs and grand cats. They will miss her dearly as she journeys to meet the beloved fur babies who have already crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Carol has officially taken the road less traveled one last time and is embarking on her ultimate adventure.

Family and friends are invited to honor Carol's memory, share stories and celebrate a life beautifully lived on Friday, August 28 at 3 PM Breckenridge Lutheran Church Breckenridge, MN.

In strict accordance with Carol's final orders, a gathering with food and frolic will immediately follow the service.

Please bring your favorite memories and prepare, as the Kroll’s Lady would say, to sit down und eat.

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Carol passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, at CHI St. Francis Health in Breckenridge, MN surrounded by the care and compassion of her loved ones and caregivers.

In honor of Carol’s deep love for animals, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be directed to the Humane Society of Richland-Wilkin Counties (18039 79 1/2 St. SE, Wahpeton, ND 58075) or to an animal rescue or shelter of your choice.