Teresa Carlson

Teresa Carlson, age 75, of Ortonville, MN, passed away on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ortonville, MN. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mundwiler and Larson Funeral Home in Ortonville, MN, with a prayer service beginning at 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Wednesday. Fr. Shawn Polman will celebrate the Mass, and interment will be at Mound Cemetery in Ortonville. 

Teresa Diane (Schell) Carlson was born on February 20, 1949, in Milbank, SD, to Raymond and Betty (Chamley) Schell. She spent her formative years in Milbank, attending St. Lawrence Catholic School followed by Milbank High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1967.

On November 9, 1968, Teresa exchanged vows with the love of her life, Eugene Carlson, Sr., at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank, SD. As a military spouse, she resided in various parts of the country such as Millington, TN, and Quonset Point, RI, while Gene served in the armed forces. Eventually, they settled back in Ortonville, where they raised their three sons.

Throughout her life, Teresa wore many hats - from working as an assistant librarian to working at the Ortonville Meat Market, Maime's Dress shop until it closed then at Cartwright Drug. 

An active member of St. John's Catholic Church, Teresa's faith was an integral part of her life. Her unwavering devotion saw her rarely missing a Mass, finding solace and strength in her religious beliefs.

Teresa had a love for simple pleasures. She relished long drives with Gene, admiring scenic vistas and preparing snacks for the road. She found peace sitting outdoors, observing nature's beauty, watching the birds, and going fishing. Her affinity for animals spoke to her nurturing spirit, having cats and a dog. Teresa’s culinary skills were second to none - renowned for her pheasant in the crockpot and wild, Canadian Goose that graced the family table every Sunday. In later years, Teresa's love for cooking extended to her love of watching Food Network on television.

Known for her warm hospitality, Teresa's home was a haven for all who entered. Her kindness knew no bounds, and her politeness and generosity left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know her. Fond of children, she delighted in sharing treats on Halloween and cherishing the joy on their faces.

Teresa will be deeply missed by her devoted husband Eugene “Gene” of Ortonville, MN; sons: Gene Jr. (Becki) Carlson of Miltona, MN; Russell Carlson of Montevideo, MN; and Jeffrey Carlson of Ortonville, MN; five grandchildren: Brandon, Lacey, Chelsie, Abby, and Zetta; one great-grandson, Cooper; two sisters: Mary Mack of Big Stone City, SD; and Imelda Pogany of Sioux Falls, SD; one brother, Ronald Schell of St. Paul, MN; along with numerous nieces and nephews; and friends very special to her: Pat Carlson, Cheryl Carl, and Diane and Bud Cornelisen.

Preceding her in death were her parents; and sister-in-law, Sharon “Tena” Strei.