Carlton Jerome Vesterse

1925 - 2024

Carlton (Carty or CJ) Jerome Vesterse, age 99, formerly of Spring Grove, died on December 3, 2024, at the Rochester Rehab and Living Center in Rochester.

He was born to Jean and Olga Vesterse on August 4, 1925. He attended Black Hammer School and was a lifelong member of Faith Lutheran Church of Black Hammer.

He married Shirley Svehaug on April 27, 1952, and they had three daughters. They were later divorced. He married Cecelia Johnson on September 28, 1987 and they were later divorced.

Carlton farmed until moving to Eyota in 1960. He started working at Kimber Poultry, then worked construction for several Rochester contractors. He then worked as a small animal technician at Mayo Clinic Institute Hills and Medical Science until his retirement in 1988. After retiring, Carlton returned to Spring Grove where he worked part-time as a custodian at the school. He then worked part-time at Northern Engraving as a weekend night watchman.

In his younger days, Carlton loved playing softball. He bowled for 58 years and was on several championship teams. Always an avid Minnesota Twins fan, he enjoyed watching professional baseball and football, and playing cards - especially at the Log Cabin in the park. Carlton was an Eagles member since 1969.

Survivors include his daughters Lynette Lively (Eric Morrison) of Des Moines, Penny (William) Harrison of Rochester, and Caryn (Alan) Pettey of Kasson; granddaughter Nicole (Ryan) Miller, grandson Kyle Pettey (Rebecca); great-grandsons Samuel, Eli and Calvin Miller and Axel Pettey; and twin great-granddaughters Reagan and Harlyn Pettey, sister Delores Onstad and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jean and Olga Vesterse, brother Ellsworth Vesterse and sister Dianne Allen.

Our deepest thanks to the staff at the Rochester Rehab and Living Center (The Homestead) and Mayo Hospice for the wonderful care they provided. He truly considered the facility his home and the care teams as family and friends.

Funeral services were held at Faith Lutheran Church of Black Hammer, 16032 County Rd 4. Spring Grove, MN on Saturday, December 7 at 1:00. Pastor Leonard Liptack officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery. Visitation was one hour before the service at the Church.

Online condolences may be left at www.roblefuneralhome.com. Roble Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.