Carol Marie (Ellison) Swenson, 89, of Rapid City, South Dakota (formerly of Pierre) passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

The only child of Lester and Hilda (Olson) Ellison, Carol was born October 21, 1936 in Sioux City, Iowa and raised on a farm in rural Clay County, SD. As a child, Carol spent many days playing with her Ellison and Olson cousins who lived on nearby farms.

After graduating from Wakonda High School, Carol spent one year at the University of South Dakota and then moved to Huron, SD. It was there--on a blind date with a handsome young engineer--she met the love of her life, Merle Swenson.

The couple married on July 28, 1956 at Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church in Westerville, SD--the church Carol was baptized and confirmed in. Mom's grandparents helped build the church in 1870.

Ultimately, Mom and Dad were married for 64 years in a beautiful, Christ-centered union. They loved each other through thick and thin, unconditionally, and set a beautiful example of a successful marriage.

Carol's calling in life was to be a mother and grandmother. She and Merle had four children, 11 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. She loved to hold the babies and color with the toddlers and older kids; she offered overnight stays so moms and dads could get away; and lovingly cared for each child in that "warm fuzzy" way only grandparents can.

Traveling was one of Carol's favorite hobbies. She and Merle often took road trips to scenic destinations throughout the US to visit children or friends. They had been to 48 states.

While living in Pierre, Carol enjoyed square dancing and spent many weekends with Merle traveling to square dance festivals around the region. They were accompanied by a tremendous group of friends that always held a special place in her heart.

Carol always believed in giving back to the community through volunteering, which was an important part of her life. She volunteered at the South Dakota Discovery Center in Pierre and The Journey Museum in Rapid City, among many others.

Carol was also proud to be a member of PEO.

A hard-working woman, Carol balanced work and family, and was employed by the state of South Dakota for most of her career. No matter how busy she was, Mom aways had a hot meal on the table after a long day at work.

Carol is survived by her four children: Pam Shepherd of Tucson; Vicki (Ron) Dutenhoffer of Westport, SD; Mike Swenson of Rapid City; and Amy (Matt) Einspahr of Brookings, SD; as well as 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

She was proceeded in death by her husband Merle in 2020.

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  Burial will be at Mountain View Cemetery in Rapid City.