Carol A. Maschka

Carol Ann Maschka (Orlikowski), age 79, of Minnesota City, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital - St. Mary's Campus in Rochester, MN, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on February 13, 1946, Carol was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, sister, and friend, who lived her life with kindness, and grace. She brought joy and warmth to everyone she met, with a smile, and laugh, that was contagious. She had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and deeply loved. Whether she was making one of her infamous hotdishes, pickle roll-ups, gabbing with friends, shopping, going on an adventure out of town, or reading, she had a smile. Her sweet soul left a lasting mark on her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, who adored her gentle presence and joyful laugh.

She is survived by her husband, David, of 55 years! They had 3 children, Scott, Chad (Katie), and Sarah (Shane), along with 8 grandchildren who were her world: Jacob (Ashley), Alex (Makena), Andrew, Ryan, Dawson, Danica, Rose, and Teddy. She was lucky enough to meet her great- granddaughter, Emersyn!  She is also survived by her sisters: Susie (Gary) and Kathy (Jim).  She was preceded in death by sisters, Linda, and Patty, along with parents, Ann and Leo.

Carol and David moved to the family farm in 1979, where Carol was a crucial part of ensuring the farm operations ran smoothly – whether it was helping feed cows and calves, or handling the bookkeeping, even after a full shift at the telephone company. As the years went on, she was active on the farm, as much as she could. She continued her career working on the phone and with people as a switchboard operator at Winona Health. She was a go-getter, and David would tease she had to always be on the move and had “wheels on her a**!” Whether she was working, or spending time with family and friends she was always busy. The last year as her mobility declined, she would say, “I lived a good life. I have amazing children, and grandchildren.”  Any chance she had, she’d share how proud she was of her kids and grandkids.

A visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 11 AM until the funeral service at 1 PM.  Deacon Justin Green will officiate.

In accordance with her wishes cremation will take place, and her ashes will be scattered in a private family ceremony, at a later date.