Carol Ellis, 1938-2026

Carol Jane Ellis, 87, of Roseville, Minn., passed away Feb. 16. A graduate of Marshall High School, she attended the University of Minnesota, obtaining an Associate of Arts Degree, and worked as a Lab Research Assistant for the University and the VA Medical Center for more than thirty years. Calling the University Golf Club her home, Ellis won the 1963 Minnesota Women’s Public Golf Association’s Public Links Championship, finished runner-up in the 1966 Minnesota Women’s State Amateur Championship and participated in eight U.S. Women’s Opens from 1964 to 1977, including a 43rd place finish in 1966 at Hazeltine National Golf Club. Turning professional in 1966, she was a successful golf instructor, giving lessons in St. Paul at Harkins Range, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, and at the University Golf Club into the early 1980’s. Nearing 50 later that decade, Ellis regained her amateur status and went on to win three consecutive Minnesota State Senior titles in 1989, 1990 and 1991. She also qualified for three U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur and nine USGA Women Senior Amateur championships, including a 13th place finish in the latter in 1992.  She was admitted to the Minnesota Golf Hall of Fame in 2017.  

In addition to her many golf accomplishments, Ellis was an avid animal lover and owned several Golden Retrievers during her lifetime. She was active in showing her dogs and won several awards. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Carol Jane Ellis please visit the  Sympathy Store.