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Carol Ann Siltala (Simonson), 77, of Cokato, MN, was called to her heavenly home Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023.
Mom was called home under the care of her husband, her children and their spouses, and the loving staff of Havenwood in Buffalo, MN.
She was born Aug. 2, 1946, in Lucky Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Mom was raised on the prairies of Saskatchewan, and her memories of her years growing up there were some of the last memories she shared with us. She would fondly tell us stories of times at the schoolhouse, of the sleigh rides to and fro, and of all the ways they found to keep themselves entertained at home.
They didn’t have electricity or indoor plumbing for her first 10-plus years growing up, but that seemed to romanticize her stories all the more, and how we longed to be a part of it. Though life at times was difficult, they lived life to the fullest.
Mom moved to the Minneapolis, MN, area in 1968 for work, and was introduced to the love of her life, Dan Siltala. Though they didn’t court for long before they became engaged, Dad was adamant about finishing college before getting married.
They were engaged for about eight months and got married July 5, 1969. This union was blessed with 11 children.
Mom and Dad lived in the cities for a short time, then ventured west to Cokato, where they lived for over 50 years. It must have felt like home, as like an oak tree, they set their roots, and they set them deep. Home has been in the same place for 50 years.
Mom set the bar when it came to being busy, and she set it high. She was not a big fan of idle time. Mom set an example for so much in life, and for that we are so thankful. Faith was the most important part of Mom’s life, and her loving guidance will long be remembered. The lessons we have learned and the memories we have to share could fill volumes.
Mom had special talents. She knitted Christmas stockings and sewed quilts for all of her children and grandchildren until her abilities faded. She was also a mentor to many with her smile, quick wit, and enthusiasm for life.
Carol is survived by her husband, Daniel Edward; children, Heidi and Mark Janckila, Wade and Judith, Ryan and Lea, Evan and Kristi, Craig and Kathryn, Rory and Jena, Matthew and Amy, Perry and Lindsey, Valerie and Daniel Hillstrom, Scott and Anna Liisa, and Levi and Alexis; 100 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and many brothers and sisters and their spouses.
Carol was preceded in death by her grandchild, Lily Jade Siltala; great-grandchild, William Chase Aho; parents, parents in-law, and several siblings and in-laws.
A funeral service took place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, at the Cokato Laestadian Lutheran Church. Visitation was from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayer at 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, and continued one hour prior to services, all at the church.
Arrangements are by the Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home of Cokato, www.swansonpeterson.com, 320-286-2534.
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