Carol J. Zwolanek

Carol J. Zwolanek, 86, of Chippewa Falls, died Friday, July 21, 2023, surrounded by the love of her family at Lake Hallie Memory Care.

She was born September 16, 1936, in Chippewa Falls to John and Cora (Gillette) Roycraft. She graduated from Chippewa Falls High School and then attended UW-Stout to obtain her teaching degree. 

On January 25, 1958, she married David Zwolanek. They resided in Chippewa Falls and she taught Home Economics at Stanley High School, Chippewa Falls Vocational School, Northern Center, Chi Hi, and Chippewa Falls Middle School, from where she retired in 1994.

Carol was a talented musician, playing piano and trombone and had a beautiful singing voice. She played the piano for many years at Anson United Methodist Church and sang for numerous weddings in the area. She also loved to keep busy knitting, sewing, gardening, cooking, camping, boating, and water skiing.

Carol is survived by her children, John Zwolanek of DeForest, Ann Miller (Kevin) of Chippewa Falls, Jerry Zwolanek of Chippewa Falls, and Amy Zwolanek Laird (Lance) of Menomonie; grandchildren, Hannah Miller, Zane Miller, Clara Zwolanek, Quinn Zwolanek Laird, Silas Miller, Bethany Zwolanek Laird, and Ian Zwolanek Laird; sisters, Cora Ann Haugli (Gordy) of Chippewa Falls, Mary Jane Webster (Wayne) of Rice Lake, Ellie Alm of Gladstone, MI, and Kathy Rykal (Bob) of Chetek.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and husbands, David Zwolanek and Harvey Norsten.

Carol’s family would like to express their gratitude for the care provided the past two years by the wonderful staff at Lake Hallie Memory Care.

A music centered celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 16 at the Flag Hill Pavilion at Irvine Park.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the Chippewa County Humane Society, Emily’s List, or Alzheimer’s Association.