Carol Jean Esterby Clemetson

Our dear sweet beloved mother Carol Jean Esterby Clemetson of Saratoga Wyoming passed away at the age of 97 on Easter Sunday March 31st, 2024. She was born January 9, 1927 to Amandus Esterby and Oliva (Oline) Jacobson Esterby in Minot North Dakota. She was a loving sister to her brothers Art and Bob (both deceased); sisters Gail (deceased), Katharine (Renee), and Gloria; a loving wife to her husband Lloyd (deceased); a devoted mother to her two sons Brian and Kyle; and a loving grandmother to Evan and Tim.

She spent her early years in Minot North Dakota and graduated from Minot State University with a teaching degree. Florence Clemetson, a friend of Carol, introduced her to her brother Lloyd and this introduction turned out to be a match made in heaven. She taught school in many locations including Solen North Dakota and at the Junior High School in Wheatland Wyoming.

After the passing of her husband Lloyd, she moved from Wheatland, Wyoming to Saratoga, Wyoming to be closer to her sister Gloria and brother-in-law Richard Rakness and their family members. It was during this time in Saratoga that she met her beloved life-long friend and companion Bill Rathbun. Together they shared their love of music, choir, movies, walking and long games of scrabble.

Carol was a kind and thoughtful individual with a contagious joyful spirit that was felt by all in her presence. She loved playing the piano and did so nearly every day either at home or in church. She sang in the church choir and played piano and organ for church services in Wheatland and Saratoga Wyoming. She was active in the local community choir and music was always a passion throughout her entire life.

Carol was always optimistic and carefree during her entire life. Her husband Lloyd lovingly compared her to Betty White, whose resemblance is uncanny in both demeanor, attitude, wit, charm, and beauty.

A celebration of her life is to be held on Saturday May 4th at 11 AM at the Presbyterian Church in Saratoga Wyoming.