Carol Jean Ashby

Carol Jean Ashby, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, Wausau, Wisconsin.

She was born on October 15, 1947, in Huron, South Dakota, the youngest child of the late Frank and Evelyn (Love) Kearns. For over two decades, Carol was a familiar and friendly presence at the Hwy 51 Truck Stop in Merrill, where she served as manager. She was known not only as a diligent and hardworking individual but also as someone who genuinely cared for the many people she encountered daily.

Carol had a great love of birds and amassed a treasured collection of bird figurines. In her leisure, she enjoyed trips to the casino, playing bingo and Texas Hold’em, as well as traveling. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she loved attending family reunions and gatherings, and delighted in spending quality time with her girls and grandchildren. She was also an enthusiastic supporter of Wisconsin sports teams, often found cheering for the Packers and Brewers with spirited pride.

Carol is lovingly remembered by her three daughters: Jeannine (Curly) Marg of Custer, South Dakota; Denise (Carl) Viviano of Wausau; and Kimberly (Robert) Teske of Marathon; as well as one stepdaughter, Heather (Roy) Freda of Glendale, Arizona. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Bethany, Renee (Jacob), Erin (Mitchell), Katlyn (Derek), Christopher (Hannah), Samantha, Billy (Bradly), Robert (Amanda), Bobby (Krystal) Lillianna, and Patrick (Alexandra); and her nine great-grandchildren: Chloe, Oaklynn, Ava, Roman, Hayden, Bennett, Daniel, Soren, and Hudson. She is further survived by two brothers, Dale Kearns of Panama City Beach, Florida, and Duane (Angie) Kearns of Mesick, Michigan, as well as the many nieces and nephews she dearly loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Beverly Castagno, and her brothers Darrell (Sonny) Kearns and Donald Kearns.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 6205 Alderson Street, Weston, Wisconsin. Pastor Jordan Balk will officiate. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements.  Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.