Carolyn M. Tix

Carolyn M. Tix, 77, of Simpson, MN died on Sunday (May 16, 2021) at her home, from complications of an illness with cancer.

Carolyn Marie Newton was born on June 23, 1943 in Cloquet, MN to Clayton and Frances Newton. She grew up in Duluth, where she attended Duluth schools.  Carolyn was married to David Zempel. They made their home in Hibbing, MN where they raised their sons – Paul, James and Richard. They were later divorced. Carolyn then married Darell Randolph. They made their home in Rosemount, MN where they raised 2 daughters Gretchen and Melissa. Mr. Randolph died March 18, 1992. Carolyn was employed at Rosemount National Bank for a number of years. She was then employed with Blue Cross/ Blue Shield as an insurance agent and office coordinator in Rochester, MN until her retirement. Carolyn was married on May 22, 2004 at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Simpson, MN to James P. Tix. Following their marriage, the couple have made their home in Simpson. Jim was an auto mechanic, truck driver and drove school bus for Grisim Bus Co. in Stewartville for over 20 years. Carolyn was a member of St. Bridget’s Catholic Church. She was an avid quilter and volunteered many happy hours quilting at Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester. She and Jim enjoyed traveling, and going to their camper up north. She enjoyed her Walmart trips, combing garage sales for new quilting materials and trips to the casino. Carolyn loved time spent with family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Carolyn is survived by her husband – Jim; 2 daughters and 2 sons – Paul (Connie) Randolph of Coon Rapids, MN; James (Melissa) Zempel of Rosemount, MN; Melissa (Loren) Hollatz of Eagan, MN and Gretchen (David) Johnson of Rosemount, MN; 2 step-daughters and 2 step-sons – James Tix of Fort Mohave, AZ; Rebecca (Jere) Ahrens of Rochester, MN; Charles Tix of Rochester and Virginia (Brandon) Ramirez of Springfield, MO; and brother Dennis (Barb) Newton of Port Orchard, WA. 28 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews and Sweetie her cat. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother -William Newton and son – Richard Zempel.

A memorial service for Carolyn will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, May 28, 2021 at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Simpson, MN with Rev. Kevin Connolly officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. A time of visitation for family and friends will take place 1 hr. prior to the service.  Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Carolyn are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com

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