Anna Eleanor Carlson

Anna Eleanor Carlson, 88, of Grand Forks, ND, passed away on July 31, 2011 at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND. Eleanor was born on July 23, 1923 in Grand Forks, ND, the daughter of Nels H. and Marie (Bunde) Knutson. She grew up in Walle Township, rural Thompson, ND, and graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1941. Eleanor attended Concordia College, Moorhead, MN. On April 16, 1950, she married Robert O. Carlson at East Walle Lutheran Church. They made their home and raised their family near Eldred, MN where they farmed until 1990, before moving to Grand Forks, ND. Prior to marriage, Eleanor and her dear cousin spent several winters working in California. After raising her family, Eleanor continued using her gift of caring for others by assisting individuals with their healthcare needs, in turn developing special friendships. Eleanor was a member of Sand Hill Lutheran Church, actively serving in her church and community. She loved engaging with family and friends, providing wonderful meals and extending hospitality to all who visited. Eleanor had a loving and compassionate nature and lived a life filled with faith, joy and love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Eleanor is survived by her beloved husband and five children: Anne (Keith) Burke, Climax, MN; Nancy (Garry) Johnson, Columbia Heights, MN; Randy Carlson, Prairie Village, KS; Julie (Allen) Paulson, Shevlin, MN; Jon (Jill) Carlson, Climax, MN; ten grandchildren: Alyssa Burke Neumann and Chris Burke, Lindsey Johnson and Andrea (Clint) Agar, Andrew and Ben Carlson, Levi and Erik Paulson, Evan and Claire Carlson; two great-grandchildren: Graci and Eastyn Burke; six sisters-in-law; many nieces and nephews; and numerous relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents and brothers: Howard, Wilmer and twin brother, Nels M. Knutson, who died in infancy. A memorial service celebrating Eleanor's life will be held at Climax Lutheran Church, Climax, MN on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Joy Grainger officiating Visitation will be for the hour prior to the service in the church. Memorials may be sent to Sand Hill Lutheran Church, Climax, MN, or to one's local church or charity of choice.