Carolyn L. Mautino, 73 of Tomah, passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026, at her home. She was born on August 25, 1953, to William H. and Ruby I. (Eckelberg) Kobleska in Sparta. Carolyn grew up on the Kolbeska family farm in the Bear Creek area and was a proud member of the Tomah High School graduating class of 1971. After graduation, she began her career as a secretary at Mayo Clinic.
On July 23, 1977, Carolyn was united in marriage to Donald D. Mautino at St. Peter’s Ev. Lutheran Church in rural Clifton (Indian Creek).
Carolyn began her career with the Tomah School District, where she dedicated many years to serving students and families. Throughout her time with the district, she drove school bus, worked as a classroom aide, and eventually retired in 2018 from her secretarial position at Oakdale. During those years, she also worked nights and weekends at the restaurant at Fort McCoy.
Family was at the heart of Carolyn’s life. At family gatherings and camping trips, she was often the organizer of fun, games, and activities, making sure everyone had a good time. She was a proud and loving “Boy Grandma” who treasured every moment spent with her grandsons. She was especially excited to welcome a granddaughter into the family following a recent proposal.
Carolyn was known for her kindness and generosity. She never hesitated to help a friend, family member, or even someone she had never met who was in need. She found joy in serving others, including through her years of teaching Sunday school and assisting with the St. Paul hot lunch program.
Her faith was an important part of Carolyn’s life. She was a faithful and devoted member of St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church, where she stood strong and steadfast in her faith. Her relationship with God brought her great comfort and guided her throughout her life.
Carolyn also had a love for gardening. She was an avid gardener who took great pride in growing vegetables and preserving them through canning. During the Christmas season, her kitchen would fill with the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies. She rarely made just one batch—her cookies came in double and triple batches so there would always be plenty to share with family and friends.
Carolyn will be remembered for her generous heart, steadfast faith, love of family, and the countless ways she brought joy and kindness to those around her. Her love and caring spirit will live on in the many lives she touched.
She is survived by her husband Donald of Tomah; daughters, Ellen (Jamie) Murphy of Warrens, and Jennifer Schladweiler of Tomah; grandsons, Nicholas (Erin) Murphy, Matthew Murphy, Ethan Murphy and Devin (Kayla) Schladweiler and Wyatt Schladweiler; great grandchild, Cohen Schladweiler; siblings, Ann (Kenneth) Franks of Norwalk, Karen (Ray) Snowberry of Tomah, Jean (James) Korthals of Viroqua, Denise (Ray) Berent of Camp Douglas, and Bill (Kathy) Kolbeska of Camp Douglas; brother-in-law, Dwight Von Haden. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Susan Von Haden; nephews, Scott Ziegler and Kevin Franks; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Joseph and Bernice Mautino; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Judy and Earl Lueck, Tom and Gloria Mautino.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, 11:00 AM at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church 525 Superior Ave. Tomah. Pastor Jonah Backus and Pastor Mark Kahrs will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Vernon Cemetery at a later date.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.
The Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to www.sonnenburgfamilyfh@gmail.com.
Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home
