Carol A. Kerr, age 81, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by her family at home.

Carol Ann was born June 4, 1944, in Chisholm, MN to Leslie Leo and Ann Marie (Vukelich) Oikari.  She was raised in Chisholm where she attended Chisholm Schools, graduating with the Class of 1962 from Chisholm High School. Carol went on to x-ray training from Hibbing General Hospital.

On May 4, 1963, Carol was united in marriage to Kenneth Dean Kerr at Wesley Methodist Church in Hibbing, MN.  Carol and Ken lived for a short time in the Twin Cities before Ken's career took them to Manistique, MI for ten months then Montevideo, MN for the next 3 ½ years. In 1969 their final move took them to Grand Rapids, MN.  Over the years Carol worked for Glen's Army & Navy Store, Flowers by Jeannie, YMCA pool instructor and the Itasca County Courthouse food bar. Carol returned to school to complete her CNA training through Itasca Community College. She loved nursing and working with the elderly and very much enjoyed her work at Itasca County Nursing Home in Grand Rapids.

Carol was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids, MN. She had strong faith and volunteered her time and talent in so many ways with her church. Carol also enjoyed being outside at home with her flower and vegetable gardens and her meticulous care of the lawn.

Carol is survived by her husband Ken of nearly 63 years; children Scott B. (Frances) Kerr, Lori Ann Hanson and James D. (Maribeth) Kerr; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren; sister Sandra Kay (Ken) Hansen.  She was preceded in death by her parents Leslie and Ann Marie Oikari.

A Celebration of Carol's life will be held Monday, May 4, 2026, at the United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids, MN. Visitation to begin at 3:00 PM with a service at 4:00 PM. Lunch and open mic to follow. Reverend Jim Crecelius will officiate. Memorials in Carol's memory may be given to United Methodist Church Music Fund in Grand Rapids, MN.