Obituary for Carol D. Josephson (Hammes) Getchell

Carol was born in Hennepin County MN on October 1, 1944 to Nelson Josephson and Mary Williams. She graduated high school in Edina, MN. After her mother passed away, Carol was especially grateful to her Uncle Dan Williams for taking her in when she had no other place to go.

Carol was married in June 1963 to Dennis Hammes and had 3 children. They later divorced. She married Daniel E. Getchell on January 10, 1987 at Roaring Creek Methodist Church. They shared a love that was everlasting.

While raising her family in Black River Falls, WI she worked at John’s IGA and Jackson County Health and Human Services and later at Ho-Chunk Gaming Black River Falls. After “retirement”, she worked at Black River Outlet Furniture for many years. She enjoyed these jobs because of her love of socializing.

Carol and Dan lived in Germany for 4 years where they were able to visit many other countries and experience those cultures. While there, they enjoyed participating in Volksmarche. Since Carol always enjoyed working and being with people, she went to work at Burger King.

During her free time, she enjoyed quilting, hiking and reading. One of Carol’s favorite things to do was to take road trips with Dan to casinos throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. She always had a cup of coffee ready for all visitors.

Carol always took care of others first. It was important to her to get up early to make the family breakfast. Throughout her life she remained loving, giving, smart, and feisty.

Carol is survived by her husband Dan of 37 years; sisters Kathy Brietich Anoka, MN; Peggy (Tim) Galvin Mound, MN. Children Kelly Harris, Harold “Bret” (Michelle) Hammes Black River Falls, WI; Clay (Becky) Hammes Orfordville, WI; step-children Tammy (Kevin) Kubis Independence, WI; Tina (David) Saltzman Randolph, MA; Teresa Getchell; Tara (Harry) Shawley Melrose, WI; Daniel J Getchell La Crosse, WI. 25 Grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Thomas Josephson and brother-in-law John Brietich.

Carol’s love of animals was evident when she assisted with the fundraising for the first animal shelter in Black River Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Jackson County Animal Shelter in Black River Falls, WI.

A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held at the Neil S. Lewison American Legion Post 439, 303 N. Washington St., Melrose, WI on February 3rd from 1:00 – 5:00. She will be interned at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at a later date.