StoudtCarolobitCarol Louise Stoudt, 81, of Fargo, ND passed away at her home on Monday, April 25, 2016. Carol was born April 26, 1934 in Fargo, to Richard M. and Marlys (Carl) Stoudt.

Carol was raised and graduated from high school in Jamestown, ND. She attended DePauw University, later graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in social work.

Carol worked two years in San Francisco and then returned to Fargo to begin her 41 year career with the Village Family Service Center, where she changed many lives as the adoption counselor. Carol helped women, some as young as 14, and families who wanted to adopt, with decisions that affected future paths for the mothers, the new parents and the adopted children. Carol was the first North Dakotan to receive the Congressional Angels in Adoption award in 1999.

Carol passionately pursued broad interests including music, theater, golf, bridge, dogs, travel, and helping others. She learned about charity from her parents and proved herself to have been an exceptional student. Organizations she supported include Hospice of the Red River Valley, the YWCA (where she was the 2008 Woman of the Year), the FM Area Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, Gethsemane Episcopal Church (where she worked with the Altar Guild), The Salvation Army, The FM Symphony, FM Opera, and more. Carol supported each with hands on work as well as gifts. She was able to spread and live her message that we are each here for service to a greater good beyond ourselves.

Survivors are nephews and nieces: Casey (Sue) Stoudt, Jamestown, ND; Beth Michaels, Marietta, GA; Jamie (Mary) Stoudt, Stillwater, MN; Melissa (Gayle) Stoudt, Vadnais Heights, MN; Dana (Cecil) Stoudt, Excelsior, MN; and cousins: Tom (Barbara) Arnold, Hilton Head, SC; and Marcia Schilberg, Atlantic, IA.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother and sister-in-law, Dick and Honey Bee Stoudt. The Funeral Service is at 1:00pm Saturday, April 30, 2016 at Gethsemane Episcopal Cathedral in Fargo. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Memorials may be directed to a charity that you support or Gethsemane Episcopal Church, 3600 25th Street South Fargo, ND 58104.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.hansonrunsvold.com

Arrangements by Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home – Fargo, ND.