Age 75
Passed away on May 1st, 2025. Preceded in death by parents, James and Ruth (Cole) Gallagher; and brothers, Jimmy and Patrick. Survived by sister, Mary Ann (Larry) Palodichuk; brother, Tommy (Carla) Gallagher; sister-in-law, Julie Gallagher (Jimmy); daughters Tara (Randy) Klegin-Laska and Trica Bagwill; grandkids, Brennan, Lucas and Tessa Laska and Alyssa, Kayla and Nicholas Bagwill; along with other family members and friends.
Carolyn grew up in South St. Paul and moved to Cottage Grove to raise a family. After moving back to South St. Paul, she continued her gardening talents and won two beautification awards from the city with the help of her dad. Carolyn worked various jobs throughout her life and thoroughly enjoyed being a beautician. She always made sure her girl’s hair was perfect before leaving the house. She also served as a volunteer fire fighter for Cottage Grove. Carolyn loved cabin life on Pokegama Lake in Pine City where she enjoyed the company of her parents across the channel. Most importantly Carolyn enjoyed camping, traveling and spending time with her six grandchildren. She moved to Arizona and spent many wonderful years looking out her window at Superstition Mountain. She was at the very least a medical miracle, surviving a burst brain aneurysm in 2018. Carolyn moved back to South St. Paul, MN in 2022. Overcoming many different health complications, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in January 2025. After a short battle, Carolyn passed away peacefully, with no pain, in her sleep.
Her girls want you to know she was always able to brighten someone’s day. She was hilarious and witty! Every nurse and doctor would comment how funny she was and how they wished all patients were just like her. They would like to thank their Auntie Mary Ann and Auntie Julie for the amazing support they showed Carolyn (and them) right up until the very end. Without either of them, her days would not have been filled with the love and laughter they brought. Thank you to all the family and friends that supported all who were involved in the care and support of those who took care of and loved Carolyn. There were some very hard days since 2018 but the support is what got them through it. When Carolyn was asked what she wanted with her at the end, she said ice water, her wallet and cash. Classic! The care she received over the years was intense. On her behalf, the girls would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Barcelon (PCP), Dr. McHale (ENT) and every single nurse, CNA, staff member, and doctor at Regions Hospital! Carolyn and her daughters are so thankful for the genuine care and compassion they have shown.
No service decisions have been made yet. Carolyn will be laid to rest in Arizona, May 10th, 2025, surrounded by family.