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| Carol Ann Cwikla, 68 |
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| Written by TRF Times |
 Thief River Falls - Carol Ann Cwikla, 68, of Thief River Falls, and formerly of the Middle River community, died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2012, at Oakland Park Communities in Thief River Falls. Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, Jan. 20 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Middle River. Carol Ann Cwikla, the daughter of the late John and Ann (Burian) Cwikla, was born on May 6, 1943, in Thief River Falls. She was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith and attended the former Shady Nook School, graduating from Middle River High School in 1961. Following graduation, she worked as a housekeeper for Fr. John Sterns in Badger and later in Fertile. Carol took some college English courses and became very fond of writing, especially poetry. Many times, her greeting cards would include a personalized poem. She also studied and attempted writing children’s books. Carol loved life and found joy in everything, however basic and simple. She was unknowingly an inspiration to many because of her outlook and attitude. Even though she was born with a handicap, she never said “why me?” She was always positive. Carol moved to Minneapolis in 1977 and was employed in a nursing home as a nurse’s aid, then at Ft. Snelling Air Base as a switchboard operator. Due to her health, Carol retired and lived at Ebenezer Assisted Living for several years before moving to Oakland Park Nursing Home in Thief River Falls in 2006, so she could be closer to her family. While at Ebenezer Apartments, she received many awards for her friendly spirit and for volunteering her time and talents to those less fortunate. She knew everyone in this large complex and made friends with all. Carol loved to laugh and loved music. She knew the words to what seemed like millions of songs. In the middle of a conversation, something would remind Carol of a song and she would start singing. She is survived by two brothers: Jim (Arnette), and Allan (Pam); and one sister: Eileen (Al) Walseth, all of Thief River Falls; several nieces and nephews; uncle: Frank Cwikla, of Wannaska; aunt: Ann Zedlik, of Roseau; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and a nephew: John A. (Johnny) Cwikla. A00003B2012JA25  |
