Carol Jean Theis, a beloved fixture of the Sandstone, MN community, passed away peacefully at the age of 92, from natural causes on August 26, 2025, at the Sandstone Health Care Center. She was born on November 18, 1932, in Braham, MN, to Daniel and June (Martin) Monson. Carol was the eldest of three daughters.

Carol graduated from Harding High School in 1949 and went on to attend Hamline University, where she earned her degree in 1953. She began her teaching career in Askov, where she met the love of her life, Roland (Bud) Theis. The two were married on July 16, 1955, in Sandstone and went on to create a warm and loving home, living in both Finlayson and Sandstone throughout their life together.

Known for her passion for education, Carol taught in Askov, Finlayson, and Sandstone. She earned her Master's degree in Library and Information Science from St. Cloud State University in 1980. She found great joy in being an English teacher and librarian, dedicating her life to fostering a love of learning in her students. Carol was also a founding member of East Central Dollars for Scholars, serving on the board until she retired from her position at the age of 90. Her commitment to education extended to her years on the Regional Library Board.

She was an active participant at St. Luke's Catholic Church, where she was a long-time member. Additionally, she helped manage the local food shelf for many years and served as an election judge.

Carol made a significant impact in her community as a charter member of the Sandstone Quarry Lions. Her service was recognized with the Lions' prestigious Helen Keller Award and the Leader Dogs for the Blind Tribute.

Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Roland (Bud); parents, Daniel and June; sister, Deanna Tschida; niece, Susan Divine; brothers-in-law, Michael Smalley and Ken Tschida.

Carol is survived by her daughter, Connie (Daryl) Klocke of Askov; sons, Daniel (Maggie Boyle) of Duluth MN; and Steven (Elsa Martinez Tenreiro) Theis of Elizabeth, CO; grandchildren, Matt (Melanie) Klocke of Askov, Brian (Kelle) Klocke of Duluth, MN, Sarah Klocke of Sturgeon Lake, MN, Mike (Emily) Klocke of McGregor, MN, Ian (Shawntelle) Theis of Richfield, MN, Alec (Missy) Theis of St. Paul, MN, Alexandra (Ryan) Tenreiro Theis of Denver, CO, Samantha (David) Tenreiro Theis of Lutzenberg, Switzerland; great grandchildren, Matthew Klocke, Ashlyn Klocke, Tyler Klocke, Scott Klocke, Parker Klocke, Maddie Klocke, Finn Klocke, Logan Disher, Raiko Theis, Eizen Theis, Torin Theis; sister, Susan Smalley of Duluth, MN; nieces, Kathy Sommers, Kelly Fugere, Erin Conklin; and nephew, John Tschida.

Carol will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness, compassion, and commitment to education will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. The family will be giving memorials made in memory of Carol to East Central Dollars for Scholars.  If you wish in lieu of flowers, make a donation to Dollars for Scholars.

A memorial service will be held to honor Carol at 11am on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Sandstone, MN with Father Kris McKusky officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. A private burial will take place later at Spring Park Cemetery.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.