Carol Louise Hornstein, age 88, of Owatonna, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on February 16, 1937, in Waldorf, MN, Carol was the daughter of Howard and Orvella (Besser) Cooper. Carol was baptized in April of 1937 and confirmed on May 20, 1951, both at the family church, Medo Evangelical Lutheran Church. She attended the District 81 School in Waseca County and was a 1954 graduate from Mapleton High School.

After graduation, Carol was employed at Kresger (aka K-Mart) until 1956, when she moved to Owatonna and would be employed by Federated Insurance Company. On July 22, 1956, Carol married the love of her life, Harold Hornstein, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Mapleton and the couple would share 44 years of marriage until his passing in 2001.

Carol's involvement in her community and church extended to her being a dedicated Sunday School teacher for several years along with acting as an election judge as well. She enjoyed polka dancing with friends, especially the times where she could take her granddaughters, Kelsey and Sadie along to dance with her. In her later years, Carol spent her time gardening, working with crafts, and taking part in activities at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna where she was a member. Looking for a way to pass her time in retirement, in 2003, Carol worked at Wal-Mart until 2008.

Carol is survived by her daughters, Mary (Jarl) Kubat of Surprise, AZ and Cheryl (Darrell) Rainey of Lake City, MN; grandchildren: Michael (Sheila) Terrill, Jessica (Aaron) Mealy, Brady (Darcy) Kubat, Sadie (Matt) Jensen, and Kelsey (Chris) Umsteadt; nine great-grandchildren; her companion for the lasts 10 years, Dale Sandborg; brother, Gary (Sandy) Cooper; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold; and brothers, Larry and Dale Cooper.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. A visitation will be held from noon until the time of service. Carol will be laid to rest at Owatonna Memorial Gardens.