Carol Joann (Wenzel) Guericke

Carol was born March 28, 1942 to Herbert and Johanna (Freier) Wenzel on their family farm in Douglas County, South Dakota. A snow storm was raging at the time, and the doctor had to be brought out by a snow plow. This was probably where her vibrant personality started. She was baptized, confirmed, and married at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Dimock, South Dakota. She attended Washington District #28 and graduated from Parkston High School. After high school, she attended South Dakota Beauty Academy, earning her Cosmetology certificate. She practiced cosmetology while her husband was attending college. She maintained her South Dakota cosmetology license for her entire life, even though she did not practice.

She married Gilbert (Gil) Guericke June 18, 1961. She and her husband had a very full life, living in many states. Wherever she lived, she gained friends and kept communicating with them to the very end.

Carol is survived by her husband of 59 ½ years; son Michael (Beth), Bellevue, NE; daughter Joalyce (Tom) O’Connor, Inver Grove Heights, MN; son Judson (Chelle), Rogers, MN; and daughter Hiedi (Christophe) Doumergue, Las Vegas, NV. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; sister Magda (Rick) Koth, Pine, CO; and 3 sisters-in-law Alice Holzwarth, Lena Winter, and Darlene Holec.

She is preceded in death by her parents; step-mother Edna; brother Bill; 6 brothers-in-law; and 2 sisters-in-law.

Carol was best known for her wit and huge personality. She never met a stranger. She would meet someone and, within a short time, know all about their families. Often times, she would see them years later and still remember their names and ask about their families. She maintained her sense of humor to the very end.

A celebration of life service will be held in 2021 at Christ Lutheran Church, Las Vegas, NV.