Carol Elsbernd

Carol Elsbernd, 77, Bismarck, died Thursday, September 24, 2009, at St. Alexius Medical Center in Bismarck. Services will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, September 28, at Church of St. Anne in Bismarck with Rev. Albert Leary and Rev. Edwin Wehner officiating. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bismarck. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Sunday, September 27, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, where a rosary and vigil service will be held at 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue on Monday, one hour prior to the service at the church. Carol Jean Kellar was born on April 3, 1932, on a farm near Williston, ND, to Margaret Webb and John Kellar. She grew up in Williston and graduated from Williston High School in 1951. Carol married Charles Elsbernd of Crosby on April 14, 1953. She was employed at the telephone company as a switchboard operator in Williston. In 1963, Carol and Charley moved to Tioga, ND, where they lived until 1969 when Charley’s work moved them to Bismarck. After raising six children, she returned to work and was employed by Investment Centers of America in Bismarck from the mid-90’s until her retirement in 2002. Carol was a beloved mom, mother-in-law, grandma, great-grandma, auntie, sister, and friend. The moment she walked into a room, you could feel her warm spirit, and the loved that flowed from her. She loved generously and unconditionally and was a remarkable caregiver to so many, especially to Charley in his final years. She cherished any time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was so proud of them and loved them dearly. Carol was also a wonderful cook. “Mama E’s” chocolate chip cookies, potato salad, and caramel rolls were favorites among all who tasted them. She was “Mom” and “Gramma” to many more than just her immediate family. She is survived by one daughter, Cathy Michael McDonald of Bismarck; five sons, John Deb of Fargo, Rick Jan of Spokane, WA, Mark Cheryl of Woodbury, MN, Tim of Fargo, and Jerry Teresa of Shorewood, MN; twelve grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, Peggy Drury of Houma, LA, and Pat Alvin Hill or Ray, ND; one brother, Keith Jean Kellar of Ray, ND; and several “favorite” nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her sister, Shirley Rabb. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to The God’s Child Project.

Carol Elsbernd

April 3, 1932 - September 24, 2009