Caroline Florence Hogenson

The world is a little less interesting with the passing of Caroline Florence Hogenson of Fargo, North Dakota. Carol was embraced by her Lord on Wednesday, July 3, 2013 at her home in Fargo following a battle against cancer, and was attended by family as she quietly passed from this world into the next.

Carol was born on October 15, 1934 in Racine, WI, the eldest daughter of Florence and Paul Dresen. As a teenager, Carol was admired for her beautiful singing voice, and was offered an opportunity to formally study at a conservatory. She declined and on May 15, 1954, married the love of her life, Don. Over the ensuing 59 years, they traveled through life and across the world at each other’s side, doubling all that was joyous and halving all that was sorrowful. Along the way, Carol became mother to four, grandmother to eight and great-grandmother to one.

She was caring and kind to all, and demanded of those she loved most that they achieve their God-given potential. Bright, inquisitive, and possessing a stubborn refusal to accept mediocrity, Carol excelled in all she attempted and was a wise counselor to her family. Carol founded a community newspaper in Maple Grove, MN, where she and Don were awarded the Key to the City. She was a pioneer in telecommuting, working from home for the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago in the 1960s, quickly rising to a managerial position. Once her children were grown, Carol’s love of antiquities led her to found Green Apple Antiques in Montevideo, MN, where she pursued her passion while providing opportunities for others to display and sell their wares.

A voracious reader and tireless researcher, Carol continually sought challenges to her intellect. Her vivacious personality was reflected in the grace with which she carried herself and her appreciation for style. Neither ostentatious nor timid, Carol projected an infectious optimism that she shared with those around her. From political dignitaries to parking valets, Carol treated all with respect and dignity, showing a little extra kindness to those whose station in life had not yet progressed, a reflection of never having forgotten her own humble roots.

Carol is survived by her husband Donald Lee; her children: Marshall and his wife Terri, Scott and his wife Jessica, David and his wife Paula, and Kathy and her husband Sam Groff; grandchildren: Andrew, Peter, Kirsten, Samantha and her husband Dave Binkard with their son Paxton, Dustin, Ben, Veronica, and Chelsea and her husband Chris Corrao. She is also survived by her brother Robert Dresen and her sister Darlene Carter. Preceding Carol in death were her parents, her younger brother Bill, and her nephew Mark Stephan.

A celebration of Carol’s life will be held during a memorial service. Friends, well wishers and acquaintances of this remarkable woman are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations in Carol’s name to the Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo, or the American Cancer Society, are appreciated.

Caroline's video tribute can be viewed at http://www.philpetersonproductions.com/hr-memorials.htm