Elsie "Ginger" Carlson
March 09, 1946 - November 30, 2023
Obituary
**In Loving Memory of Ginger Carlson**
DeForest - Ginger Carlson, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, peacefully departed this world on November 30, 2023 at her home in DeForest, Wisconsin, at the age of 77.
Born Elsie Mildred Droster on March 9th, 1946, in Madison, Wisconsin, Ginger was the daughter of Mildred Carpenter Droster (Schroeder) and Earl Droster, and stepfather Lawrence Schroeder.
Raised in Madison, Oregon, McFarland, and ultimately DeForest, WI, she cultivated enduring friendships, leaving an indelible mark on all she encountered. Celebrated for her kindness, sense of humor, outgoing nature, and deep love for her family and friends, she touched the lives of many.
As a dedicated single mother, Ginger found profound joy in raising her children, instilling values of love, resilience, and integrity. Her nurturing spirit extended to her role as a grandmother, creating many cherished memories with her grandchildren.
Ginger's strength and resilience shone brightly during her valiant 4-year battle with ovarian cancer, met with unwavering positivity. Widely known for her sociable nature and warm smile, she rarely went anywhere without encountering someone she knew.
During her 17-year tenure as the main receptionist and later tour director at ABS, Ginger touched countless lives with boundless enthusiasm and a genuine passion for the bulls, sharing the company's story through her tours and dozens of ABS ‘Bullboard' slogans on Interstate 94 with thousands of visitors worldwide every year. Former ABS President Dr. Robert Walton once aptly noted, "She probably made more friends for ABS than anyone else in the company."
Whether forging connections on Facebook, making new friends while sampling delights at Walmart, or cherishing moments with loved ones, she approached life with unwavering courage, boundless enthusiasm, and a delightful sense of humor. Her radiant, genuine smile and the twinkle in her beautiful blue eyes served as an inspiration to those fortunate enough to be around her, encouraging them to embrace life with the same zest.
Ginger is survived by her children, Stacy Carlson of DeForest, WI, and Chad Carlson (Edward Westerman) of Jackson, WY; grandchildren Alyssa Motiff (Brad Schneider), Jared Motiff (Aurora Roberson), and Ethan and Violet Carlson-Westerman; and her first great grandchild that will be arriving in May, that Ginger was so excited to meet; sister Linda Stamm; many nieces and nephews, and countless friends. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, December 8, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Ryan Funeral Home, 6924 Lake Road, DeForest.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance or the Open Minds Foundation, reflecting Ginger's courageous cancer battle and coercive control survivorship.
Ginger Carlson's legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will endure, continuing to inspire and uplift those fortunate enough to share in her remarkable journey.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel