Carol J. Schanks

Carol J. Schanks (née Killen), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on Monday, July 27, 2026.

Carol was born on January 4, 1940, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to John and Mabel (Olson) Killen. She was the seventh of eight children. She graduated from Washington High School before meeting the love of her life, William Schanks, through her brother. The two were married in 1960 and built a loving family together, raising three children. Carol devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mother before beginning her career at Lyngblomsten Care Center in 1975. After nearly 30 years of dedicated service, she retired in 2005 at the age of 65.

In retirement, Carol enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, Arizona, New York, and many other destinations to visit family and spend precious time with her grandchildren. She was an avid reader who especially loved Danielle Steel novels and was often reading two or three books at a time. Above all, Carol will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, gentle spirit, and unconditional love for her family.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, William Schanks; her parents, John and Mabel (Olson) Killen; and her siblings, Jim Killen, Pat Schueller, Dee Krenn, and Bob Killen.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Theresa Baralatei, Kat (Joe) Balsimo, William (Sharon) Schanks Jr.; her grandchildren, Sarah, Christian, Noelle, Joe, Kharmia, Sam, and Christopher; her great-grandchildren, Haylee, Lily, and Vita; her siblings, Maureen, Mike, and Peg; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home, 2130 N. Dale Street, Roseville, MN 55113.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Lyngblomsten Care Center for the compassionate care and support they provided over the years. 

Memorials are preferred to the family.