Carol K. Watson, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and accomplished executive, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the age of 66, after a courageous 3-year battle with lung cancer. Carol was a remarkable woman who brought warmth and strength to everything she touched. Born in Miami to Bill and Evelyn Kling, Carol was raised in Virginia. She graduated from William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri, where she formed many lifelong friendships, and laid the foundation for a remarkable career and life. At her first post-college job, Carol met her future husband, Hugh. Less than two months later, they were engaged—a testament to the deep and lasting love that defined their life together. Carol and Hugh settled in Prior Lake, Minnesota, where she began her professional journey at NCS Assessments, publisher of psychological tests and clinical assessment instruments. Her sharp intellect, natural leadership, and compassion for others quickly propelled her career forward. After NCS was acquired by Pearson, the world's largest educational publisher, Carol continued to rise through the executive ranks, eventually becoming President of Clinical Assessments North America. After leaving Pearson, Carol served as President of Everyday Living and then led NHS Northstar as its CEO. Her professional success was surpassed only by her devotion to her family.

Carol is survived by Hugh, her loving husband of 42 years; her two sons, Ben (Jenny) and Dan (Jessica Swirtz) and her two cherished granddaughters, Samantha and Cara. She is also survived by her parents and her brothers, Billy Kling (Debby) and Mark Kling. Carol loved music and travel, but investing her time and energy into people, helping to bring out their potential and guiding them to success was the calling that continued throughout her entire life. Her influence was far-reaching—she mentored countless colleagues and friends, many of whom credit her with shaping their careers and their lives. Carol's legacy is one of integrity, kindness, and unwavering support—for her family, her colleagues, and her friends. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 2nd from 5-8 PM at White Funeral Home in Lakeville, MN. (952-469-2723) A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 3rd at 11 AM also at White Funeral Home in Lakeville, with a gathering starting at 10 AM, followed by lunch at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to NC Little Memorial Hospice, in Carol's memory.

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