Remembering Carolyn Keegan
Carolyn Ann Keegan, financial aid verification technician with UND Student Finance, 59, died in Grand Forks after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer, surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023, at Altru Hospital.
Carolyn was born Jan. 19, 1964, the daughter of Lyle and Betty (Delvo) Keegan. She grew up in the Manvel, N.D. area and graduated as an honor student from Oslo High School in 1982. After high school she attended Area Vocational Technical Institute in East Grand Forks, where she received her associate degree.
Carolyn started working at the University of North Dakota shortly after receiving her degree. She started in the Human Nutrition Center and moved into a position in the Student Finance department as a financial aid verification technician. She spent a total of 40 years working at UND. Carolyn also worked as a tax preparer for H&R block during tax season, and dealt blackjack at the Diamond Lounge.
Time spent with family and friends was what Carolyn enjoyed the most. She could always be seen in the front row at sporting events, concerts and any activities for her nieces and nephews. Carolyn loved to cook and always had a plan for gatherings. She spent every holiday with her family and made sure the traditions were followed, especially the decorating of the Christmas cookies.
Carolyn spent weekends at Island Lake and found friendships that turned into family. She could always be counted on to make a playlist that got everyone singing, however, she could not be counted on her to turn the volume down when it got too late. All in all, Carolyn was the life of the party and often the common denominator in any good times. She leaves her friends and family with stories that they will cherish and tell forever.
Carolyn is survived by her mother Betty (Leonard) Kathman; siblings: Joan Lind, Kelly (Angela) Keegan, Linda (Paul) Paschke; nieces and nephews: Michael (Adela) Wisk, Brandon Paschke, Collin (Mariah Wadman) Paschke, Devin Paschke, Emma Keegan, George (Kelly Davidson) Bruce, Stewart (Luann) Leen; great nieces and nephews: Mikey Wisk, Kaydence Wisk, Brennan Wisk, Chestin Wisk, Callan Bruce, Brooklan Bruce; stepchildren: Richard Bruce Jr., Kris Bruce, Bradley Bruce; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father; life partner, Richard Bruce; brother-in-law, David Lind; stepchildren: Stacey, Joseph, and Jason; and her beloved weiner dog, Thumper.
Her funeral service was held Saturday, Aug. 19, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Grand Forks.
