Carol Ann Ellefson

Carol Ann Ellefson, age 81, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away on September 25, 2026, at her home.

Carol was born on January 5, 1945 to parents Edward and Anna (Koenig) Rausch in Rochester, Minnesota. She was the fifth of six children and graduated from John Marshall High School in 1963. After high school, Carol worked at Rochester Public Utilities. In 1965, she married Jerry Ellefson, and together they raised five children and operated a family farm in rural Pine Island. Carol and Jerry later divorced in 1983. That same year, Carol began working at Mayo Clinic, where she remained until her retirement in 2015 after more than 30 years of dedicated service.

Carol cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was affectionately known as "Oma" to her great-grandchildren. She also had a special place in her heart for her grand-dog, Sophie. Carol loved tending to her flowers, especially her beloved lantanas, watching and enjoying birds, and spending time sitting on her deck and being home.

She is survived by her five children, Shawna Hanson of Rochester, MN, Tamara "Tammy" (John) Evans of Oronoco, MN, Dwayne Ellefson of Oronoco, MN, Chad (Michele) Ellefson of Pine Island, MN, and Stacy Ellefson of Rochester, MN; 10 grandchildren, Michael, Kaylie, Matthew, Ethan, Daniel, Teddy, Courtney, Kyle, Maddy, and Katey; seven great-grandchildren, as well as one on the way; sister, Marylin Bothwell of Roseville, MN; and special friends and neighbors, Bob and Berta Bauman.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Doris, John, Helen and Diane; and son-in-law, Jeffory Hanson.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl NW Rochester, MN 55901). Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 pm, Thursday, October 1, 2026, as well as one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Oronoco Cemetery.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Ellefson family.