Marilyn Dawn Carroll

 Marilyn Dawn Carroll of La Crosse passed peacefully on November 26 at Mayo Hospital.

 She was born on August 14, 1928, to Myron and Lucille (Bullinger) Purdy in La Crosse. The third of four children, she attended St. Mary’s Grade School and Aquinas High School, graduating in 1946. Throughout her childhood she spent her summers in Red Wing with family. It was always one of her favorite places.

 After graduation from Aquinas, she worked at the S&H Sport Shop. It was there that she met Robert “Kootch” Carroll. They were married at St. Joseph’s Cathedral on September 30, 1950.

 In 1951 they welcomed the first of their children. Seven more were to follow in the next eleven years.

 Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker but managed to find the time and energy to become involved in civic affairs. She was active in the La Crosse Democratic Party and was one of the first women to seek election to the La Crosse County Board. She remained an involved citizen and encouraged her children to do the same. She was keenly interested in politics.

 A long-time fan of Broadway musicals, she auditioned for a role in the La Crosse Community Theatre’s Production of “The Music Man.” While this was out of her comfort zone, she relished the opportunity to perform, and it became one of her most cherished memories.

 Mom served dinner every night at 6 pm and at 4 pm on Sundays. She was a genius at stretching the food dollar and it would not have been uncommon for her to peel ten pounds of potatoes for a family meal.

 In the early 1990s Mom was able to fulfill her dream of travel. She had an adventurous spirit and was thrilled to finally visit Broadway and New York City. She traveled to Boston, New Hampshire, Washington D.C., Florida, Las Vegas and the West Coast. She navigated Disneyland all by herself.

 As her health declined, she was determined to live independently. With the help of her devoted children and grandchildren she was able to stay in her home until one month ago. She had lived in her home for over 70 years.

 Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Robert “Kootch” Carroll and son Shawn Carroll. She was preceded also by her parents, her brother Myron (Pat)Purdy and sisters Jeanne Preeshl and Janet Moe.

 Marilyn is survived by her daughters Kathleen Murray; Maureen Carroll (M.Scott Ott); and Bridget Heilman(Jeff Ginn). She is survived by sons Timothy and Brian; Daniel (Linda) and Kevin (Monica). She is further survived by her six grandchildren; Jason (Nerissa)Murray, Erin (Grant)Roper, Abby Heilman, Andy Heilman, Ashley “Tootie” Heilman, and Kellie Carroll. Also, her great-grandchildren; Conor, Brendon, Ellie, Brixtyn and Kai and great-great grandson River.

 Our family would like to take the opportunity to thank the staff of Benedictine Manor and especially the staff of the Comfort Care Wing at Mayo Hospital, whose kindness and compassion were a great source of solace to us. Many thanks to Dr. Cunningham who took care of Mom for many years.

Marilyn Carroll was a wonderful woman. Her honesty and decency earned her the respect and affection of all who knew her and the world is a better place because of her. 

 Visitation will be Tuesday, December 3rd from 4pm to 6pm at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Avenue South, La Crosse, Wi.

 Funeral Mass will be celebrated, Wednesday, December 4th at 10 am at St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral, 530 Main Street, La Crosse, Wi, with visitation at 9 am.

 In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider a donation to the Cathedral Front Door Ministries or a charity of your choice in Marilyn’s name.