Carol Nelson

To watch a recording of the service, please use the link: https://youtu.be/Ct8TGueEGRo 

Carol Jean Nelson (Gothberg), of Grand Forks, North Dakota, passed away peacefully with her family by her side.

Born on August 5, 1955, to Johnnie and Florence Gothberg, Carol grew up in Grand Forks, North Dakota. In her teenage years, she showed remarkable courage and independence when she made the decision to leave home and begin a new chapter in West Columbia, South Carolina, where she graduated from Airport High School in 1973. There, she formed some of the closest friendships of her life — bonds that carried her through the years with love and laughter.

Carol later returned to North Dakota and proudly earned her degree in Social Work from the University of North Dakota, a reflection of her lifelong compassion and dedication to helping others.

She spent most of her career working in Child Support for the county and state of North Dakota, where she was deeply respected for her kindness, calm spirit, and fairness. Carol cared deeply about the families she helped, offering steady guidance and understanding during difficult times. Her compassion and quiet wisdom made her not only a trusted resource, but also a gentle presence in the lives of those she served.

Carol found her greatest joy in her family and in the simple comforts of home. A gifted crocheter, Carol poured love into every stitch, creating countless blankets that now warm the homes and hearts of those she cared for. Her hands were rarely still, always working on something meant to comfort someone else.

Carol met life’s challenges with quiet courage and grace. She had previously overcome both breast and uterine cancer and faced multiple myeloma with that same gentle strength until her final day.

She will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the calm, steady presence she brought to every moment. Those who knew her will carry her memory — soft, enduring, and full of love — always.

She is survived by her daughter Kelly Nelson (fiancé Vince), sons: David (Rochelle) Nelson and Mike (Chelsea) Soma; brother Gary Gothberg, sister Marilyn Johnson and her beloved grandchildren Johnnie, James, Alli, Zach and Evan. She also leaves behind her much-loved dogs Stella, Lucy, and Daisy, and her bird Fred, who brought her daily companionship and laughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnnie and Florence Gothberg; her grandparents; and her brother, Kenny.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Amundson Funeral Home.Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until the start of the service.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Circle of Friends Animal Shelter, 4375 N Washington St, Grand Forks, ND 58203, in Carol’s honor.