Carolyn Rottman Hopkins, 53 passed away peacefully at her home on Friday February 2, after a long fought battle with brain cancer. Carolyn was born in Murray Utah on April 20th, 1964 to Amy and Lee Rottman. She was the 3rd of 4 daughters from that union and loved her sisters very much. She has two half brothers from a second marriage and loved being a big sister to her two brothers as well. Carolyn loved sports and was a bit of a tom-boy growing up and played baseball as well as being on the varsity Track, Volleyball and Basketball team at South High in Salt Lake City. Carolyn loved to be in the mountains and was a camp counselor at Brighton Girls Camp where she learned to play the guitar and participated in campfire gatherings. She attended Brighton Girl’s Camp reunions whenever she had the chance. In 1983 she worked at a summer lodge at Mack’s Inn, Idaho as the boat girl renting canoes and paddleboats and coordinating float trips. It was there she met her future husband Chris. Chris and Carolyn dated for seven years during which time Carolyn served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in the Australia Adelaide Mission. She also completed her bachelor’s degree from Weber State in Physical Education. During college she worked as a manager of a group home for kids with special needs and she knew that she had started her life’s work. Chris and Carolyn were married in the Salt Lake Temple on April 12, 1990. Shortly after they were married Carolyn finished her master’s Degree in Physical Education specializing in Adaptive P.E.. She worked for the Jordan School District as an Adaptive P.E. specialist traveling to different schools creating physical education programs for students with special needs. Carolyn is survived by her three children McEwan 24, Quinn 22, and Kelsie 20. All three children were born in Salt Lake City and Carolyn loved being a Mom. In 2000 the family moved to Butte Montana where Carolyn continued to work as an adaptive P.E. specialist for the Butte School District. It was in Butte that Carolyn connected with Special Olympics and became a basketball and ski coach. She especially loved the annual ski competition in Whitefish. In 2006 the family moved to Miles City, Montana where Carolyn was able to continue her work with Special Olympics as a bowling coach. Carolyn also continued her career in education with the Rural Education Co-Op and then as a special education teacher for Custer County District High School. In 2012 Carolyn got her second masters degree in Educational Leadership and became the principal of Jefferson and Highland Park Elementary schools. It was during her time as principal that a cancer diagnosis forced her to retire early. Education was always Carolyn’s passion and she continued to support and participate, not only professionally, but through her church service as well. Carolyn worked with young children in primary and young women as a teacher and leader in her service.
Carolyn found her greatest joy in raising her children and being a mom. She loved going to the family cabin. She enjoyed being outside, no matter the time of year as she found joy in skiing, kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking and sports. In the summer, during a full moon, she could often be found floating Henry’s Fork of the Snake River in Island Park, Idaho with family and friends. She was fiercely independent, incredibly loving, amazingly forgiving and an incredible fighter for those that needed a voice or support. Our hearts are broken at her passing and are amazed at a life well lived. As her husband I am forever grateful for the amazing changes and joy in my life brought about by the Mack’s Inn boat girl.
Carolyn is survived by her husband and three children mentioned above, her mother and step father Amy and Sheldon Monk of Layton, UT, her uncle Jim Rottman of Durango CO, her sister; Marilee (Ken) Bartlett of Denver Colorado, Valerie (Mark) Shirley of Texarkana, TX, and Kristine Rottman of Salt Lake City, UT, her brother Erik Monk of Layton, UT and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Lee Rottman, her brother Ryan Monk and her beloved grandma Mary Rottman of Durango, CO.
The family would like to thank the amazing care received from the providers and staff at Holy Rosary Healthcare hospital and hospice, Dr Thomas Beeson, The providers and staff at the Cancer Center at Billings Clinic and Billings Clinic Miles City. The family would also like to thank the amazing community of friends and neighbors, both far and in Miles City, for the support, friendship and prayers offered on Carolyn and the family’s behalf. Miles City is truly a choice community. We extend special gratitude to the amazing folks at Custer County School District, Montana Health Network and the Miles City Ward for their unwavering support of our family throughout this battle. A special thank you to Victoria Shegoian, Chris’ sister, for frequent trips to Miles City and for putting her life on stand-by to be with Chris and Carolyn as needed and to Amy and Sheldon Monk, Carolyn’s parents for moving to Miles City to help and support Carolyn and Chris. Throughout this hardship our family has experienced nothing but hope and love from those around us. Thank you.
To help Carolyn’s continued mission we ask that in lieu of flowers donations be given to Special Olympics of Montana at somt.org
Family will receive friends on Thursday, February 8, 2018 from 4-6 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Funeral services will be on Friday, February 9, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. A visitation will be on February 13, 2018 at 10:00 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Salt Lake City followed by Interment at Salt Lake City Cemetery. Condolences to the family may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday February 8, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
825 Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Friday February 9, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
825 Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Visitation
10:00 a.m
Tuesday February 13, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
1300 East Fairfax Rd
Salt Lake City, UT
Interment
Following Services
Tuesday February 13, 2018
Salt Lake City Cemetery
200 N Street
Salt Lake City, UT
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday February 8, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
825 Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Friday February 9, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
825 Moorehead Ave
Miles City, MT
Visitation
10:00 a.m
Tuesday February 13, 2018
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
1300 East Fairfax Rd
Salt Lake City, UT
Interment
Following Services
Tuesday February 13, 2018
Salt Lake City Cemetery
200 N Street
Salt Lake City, UT
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Garth Sleight says
We have known that Carolyn’s passing was imminent, but when we got the news, it was nonetheless a heartbreaking devastation to know that her time had finally come. The Sleight family loves the Hopkins family, and we express our deepest condolences to all of you (to all of us, really). Carolyn fought valiantly through this ordeal. Chris–you, your children, your in-laws, and other family members have shown incredible grace and grit throughout Carolyn’s battle with cancer. All our love to you, now and in the days/year ahead.
Pauline Flotkoetter says
Chris and family; I am so sorry for your loss. Sending lots of prayers and hugs at this difficult time.
Tanna Aye says
Chris and family. I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
Will keep you in prayers.
Destiny Carlson says
Chris and family,
Thinking of you all. May God wrap his arms around you and give you strength through the coming days.
Destiny
Ken and Joyce Holmlund says
Chris and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! May God wrap his arms around you all and comfort you in the days ahead! Hold onto the good memories! God Bless!
Niki Munroe says
So very sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories, they will help ease the pain. Thinking of you.
Dale Barta says
Chris – My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God bless you with strength.
Krystal Nelson says
Mrs. Hopkins… thank you for all you did to make sure every student of yours graduated high school. You are my favorite teacher and favorite person thank you for being so kind.
Love Krystal nelson
Paige Walker says
Mrs Hopkins you gave me an amazing opportunity in letting me be your student aid. You were an amazing woman with a heart of gold. To her family. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Jean jones says
I am so sorry for your loss. Carolyn was a wonderful woman who battled this disease head on. Many prayers for your family.
James Liles says
Chris and family,
We are your former neighbors on Balsam Drive – we are so sorry to learn that Carolyn passed away. The last time we spoke, she had such hope for the treatments. She was a wonderful woman, bright and with such a good heart. We will keep you in our prayers. Jim and Mary Ann Liles
Ivan Vander Esch and Lujean Vander Esch says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Chris and your kids and all your family. Ivan and I love you all and especially I loved being able to see Carolyn on a monthly basis for the past several years. She truly is a fighter. Now she can join our Teigen in Heaven, as she passed away on the very day he did 12 years ago. Loves and prayers. Ivan and Lujean Vander Esch
Dan Forbes says
A dear friend! Words can’t express the gratitude in my heart for ever having rubbed shoulders with my dear friend Carolyn. She will forever be in my mind as an example of how to live and love people. Attending one hockey game with Carolyn was to learn of her competitive fighting nature and exuberance and passion for life. My life and numerous other’s lives are better for having known her and experienced life with her.
Teri Forbes says
Carolyn is one of my dearest and most cherished friends. She was a great example to me of strength, courage, and dignity. Her family was her greatest joy and her devotion for them was unwavering. She has left this world a better place and I am better for having known her. She will be dearly missed.
Jerri Hrubes says
I am so sad to hear this news ! ? A friend of mine informed me while working in Broadus. I am so thankful you have the gospel to lean upon ! Our hearts go out to all of you . We love your family dearly ! It doesn’t make it any easier knowing that she’s gone , however knowing that there is a reunion fir her on the other side gives my heart a bit of peace ! Chris and kids, we love you ! The pain will truly never dissipate, yet, lives ones and friends will be there to bouy you up! And one day we will a rejoice with our loved ones who have past on and we will never feel the seieration again! Much love to all of you ! Brad and Jerri Hrubes, Preston, Kylie, Blake and Baylee and the the little ones …. ❤️
Jerri Hrubes says
Sorry for the spelling mistakes….
Susan Cranford says
Chris and Family – We are so deeply sorry for this news. Carolyn was always a compassionate, loving person who lite up a room when she walked in. We will miss her so very much. Our prayers go out to your family! Cranford Family
Laura Lee Blankenship Kalloch Beeler says
My most sincere thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Carolyn was a wonderful valiant woman. She showed immense determination and bravery during her battle. I hope that she and your family can find peace now that the struggle is over. I know that she was loved and respected and that she will be sorely missed.
Jesse Leidholt says
Chris and family, Jim and I am so sorry for the loss of Carolyn. It won’t seem the same, come spring, when I look out the kitchen window and don’t see her in your (her) garden. You know the wonderful hymn about the “ Lord talking and walking when you come to the garden”, I will close my eyes and think of that.
The Mott family says
Can’t believe she’s gone! We shared many wonderful times with you, the Hopkins family, on and off the ice. God bless all of you.
Dale & Cindy Berg says
Chris and family,
So sadden to hear the news about Carolyn. What a wonderful woman with a spunky nature and a great smile!
May God wrap his arms around all of you and comfort you now and in the difficult days ahead. God bless you all! RIP dear Carolyn.
Terri says
To the family of Carolyn Hopkins, we have lost a wonderful friend and coach. The athletes and other coaches were blessed to have had Carolyn a part of our lives, she will be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and Prayers go out to you.
Terri Stephens
Southeastern Area Director Special Olympics
Denise Harvey says
What a precious photo! It embodies everything Carolyn is! And the obituary is such a tremendous tribute so beautifully written and also shares the amazing soul she has!
Our love and prayers always! Your courage and grace are a testament to the plan of salvation and eternal families.
Danny and Camille (Sleight) Price says
Beautiful words for a beautiful life lived. Hopkins family, we send our love and deepest condolences to all of you.
Dan and Tracie Fox family says
Dear Chris and family, I am so sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. What a blessing of kindness she was to so many! You will all be in our thoughts and prayers. Dan and Tracie Fox Family.
Teffy Whicker says
Dear Chris and family, I am so sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. Love kind you we’ll be miss ❤️❤️❤️
Tonya Lefevre says
My hart goes out to Carolyn’s family, Carolyn inspired me is so many ways as a young mom so long ago, she had a true hart. My you fly with angels and give kisses to Ryan I love you and you will be missed. ???❤️❤️
Bralee Joyce Monk says
Carolyn was my beautiful Aunt I looked up to her and loved her voice and smile she always told me sweet positive things as a little girl and also gave me wonderful memories growing up. I remember being at the cabin with all the cousins having a great time and hearing her voice and seeing her happy and everybody laughing and being in the moment like it was yesterday. She also gave me and her Daughter (my sweet cousin) Kelsie the opportunity to go to a girls camp and me and Kelsie did a 7 peak hike. It was such an amazing experience that i am going to remember for the rest of my life. I remember how proud Carolyn was of us when she came and got us from girls camp. It breaks my heart her passing but I also know she is at peace and no longer sick and in pain. What a beautiful soul such a positive, independent, and sweet woman. Your beautiful face will be missed and my heart goes out to all of the family and friends. She’s an immaculate angel watching over everyone who holds her dear to their hearts now. Stay beautiful Aunt Care, I love you. ❤-your Niece Bralee?♾☘????⚘??????????☄???
Voni Tally says
We are so very sorry for your loss. Just pray God will comfort you in your continued time of need. Scott & Voni
Tami says
Chris, McEwan, Quinn and Kelsie,
We are so sorry for your loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to your family. There are no words for what you are going through. Please know that we are thinking of you and sending thoughts of comfort during this difficult time. John, Tami & Boys
Dave Shreeve says
Chris, Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. Members of our Coop have greatly enjoyed working with you and have kept Carolyn in our Prayers as she has battled this terrible disease with a fierceness but always grace. God Bless you and yours as you move through the difficult days to come.
Big Country Educational Cooperative
Chris and Corine Cook says
Chris and family, we were heartbroken to hear the news of Carolyn’s passing. What an amazing woman she was! The world is a better place because of her and she will be greatly missed. You and your family are in our prayers!
Amy and John Tooke says
John and I would like to express our condolences. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this most difficult time.
Jill DuFloth says
I am so saddened and dismayed to learn of Carolyn’s passing. I did not know her long, but from the moment I met her I knew she was an gifted educator, loving mom, and loyal friend. Heaven has gained an angel.
Lourdes Rondan Reynolds says
I will always remember our visits feeling honored to be spending time with such a beautiful woman full of grace and peace so in love with her family -I’m thankful for those memories -I can see her smiling face -when I would drive by and ask if she wanted to go for ice cream -with that twinkle in her eye she would think for a sec and usually say yes?Sending prayers hugs and lots of love ❤
Nora Drew says
Dear Family: We don’t know each other, but my heart goes out to your for not only your loss, but the worlds’ loss of such a beautiful person. She kenw what walking the walk was about. Please accept my sincere condolences during this painful time. She was my age and had obviously made a powerful impact on people around her.
Jana Jeppson says
My name is Jana Jeppson and I grew up with Carolyn. I am the same age as Valerie. My heart is heavy for your loss but joyful at the thought of her being cancer free in heaven. I have testimony of God’s eternal promises and know that you are a forever family. May God bring you peace and comfort at this time of sorrow…and may you feel the deep love that your fsmily and friends surround you with
Bill and Glennda Wolf says
Chris and family, we are truly heartbroken for you. Carolyn was a remarkable wife, mother, teacher, mentor and friend to all. Her smile always welcomed those she met. We are holding you in our hearts and prayers.
Bill and Glennda Wolf
Darla Nelson says
Oh Chris, What a beautiful tribute to my old and dear friend Care. I’m so glad that Mack’s Inn stubborn boat girl forgave her Dear Jane Island Park boy and built such a remarkable life and family together. She will always be cheering and coaching you and the kids on from the best seat in heaven. Boat loads of love from Dale and Darla
Darbie Karch and family says
Chris and family. So sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. Heaven has gained another loving angel. Carolyn was a very sweet and loving person and will b missed by all. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time .
Sue Castelin says
Chris, McEwan, Quinn, and Kelsie,
Our thoughts go out to you. Carolyn was a special woman full of love for her family and compassionate for others. And, loved her independent spirit. She will be missed-and will remain in our hearts. I loved reading your special tribute, Chris.
May you all have strength during this time.
-cousin Sue and Kim and Chris.
Janine Yates says
I will truly miss my good friend Carolyn! We shared many wonderful memories together. I feel remiss that I was unable to spend the past few years with her as she went through the difficult battles associated with brain cancer. I will always remember her beautiful smile, infectious laugh and zest for life! She was always up for a new challenge and gave me the strength and encouragement to try new experiences. Kayaking on the river by Mack’s Inn with our girls and times spent at the cabin will forever be in my memories. I can’t really be sad for Carolyn, as I know she has “graduated” and is having a wonderful reunion with loved ones. I know she is very close, Chris, McEwan, Quinn and Kelsie, and will continue to love and support you… until you meet again. Love, Janine
Bob and Lois Olsen says
Chris, I am so sorry for your loss. May the thoughts and prayers from your family and friends provide you comfort in these difficult days.
Scott Crichton says
Chris, I’m sending light and love your way at this difficult time. I regret not knowing Carolyn. I got a glimmer of what a wonderful soul she was from your touching obituary. Our condolences to you and your adult children.
Trombley Terry says
One of my first memories of Carolyn was playing racquetball at the university of Utah rec center. As I recall she soundly beat Steve and me! She was impressed that Steve wasn’t so macho that he couldn’t take defeat at the hands of a “girl” with a degree of humility! They were friends ever since! Our hearts have been drawn out to you and the kids Chris. She continues to be a remarkable woman and the veil is never as thin as it is when life and death meet. She will be close. She will be missed. Love Steve and Terry Trombley
Trina Jellison says
Chris and family. I am so sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. May your amazing memories bring you peace. Thoughts and prayers
Cathy J says
Chris and family~i am sincerely sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Joanne K Richardson says
Chris and family – my sincere sympathy goes out to each of you at this very sad time. What a lifetime of accomplishments and successes she left for fond memories. Most of all such a beautiful wife, mother, and friend to so many. May she rest in eternal peace and comfort.
Carrie ann Riggs/lange says
Rest in Peace. I am grateful for Subbing for you. You made an impact. Now in the heavens with angels. I am so sorry for your love ones. She was such a beautiful lady. Hugs and kisses.
Carrie ann Riggs/lange
Rena Todoroff and family says
Chris and family-
Sending you many prayers. She was such a wonderful and caring person. Rest In Peace sweet Carolyn
Meg Geary says
Chris and family I am so sorry for the loss of your wife and mother. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. I feel blessed to have known her. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Roberta Morgan Rickman says
Rest in Peace, sweet lady.
Vivian Setterstrom says
Chris and children,
Our hearts are breaking for you. Our children also send their condolences. Thank you so much for the time you spent here in Butte and the good influence you were while here. I have fond memories of the few times I was able to work with Carolyn in the Butte school district,especially the morning when she and I had to make the coffee at the alternative school. It was so awful that the first person who drank It poured it right down the drain! Richard and I enjoyed seeing you all when we were in Miles City last year on Mothers Day. I will cherish the sweet visit I had with Carolyn during Relief Society that day. She was,as usual,full of questions about how our kids were doing. God bless you all and send you the peace only the Gospel can bring. Sincerely, Richard and Vivian Setterstrom
Karlene Skocilich says
My heart is broken for Chris and family. During their too short of stint in Butte we truly enjoyed Carolyn and Chris’s company. An amazing couple they made and even a more exceptional family. Prayers for all.
Tulsa Herzog says
Mrs. Hopkins was a amazing teacher. She was a very sweet lady. When i was in high school we always went to lunch on one of our birthdays. Are birthday were a day apart. She will be missed.
Silvia Mangen says
I knew Carolyn in Butte. She was one of the most talented, bright, and professional teachers I have ever known. Also, she was a marvelous friend and colleague. My heart is broken for her family and loved ones, including those in the educational community. I thank her family for sharing her with us in Butte. My deepest sympathies.
Roberta Huether says
So very sorry for your loss, praying for comfort during this difficult time.
Rosalie Bergeson Petersen says
I knew Carolyn as Cubby when we were both KDs at Brighton LDS Girls Camp in 1981. She was always nice, and a lot of fun. I am so glad I was able to see her most recently the summer of 2016 at a Brighton Reunion. Before that I appreciated her professional concern and direction about one of my kids and adaptive PE. Carolyn gives the best hugs. Words fail me, feelings are powerful. Love to you all. -Sarsaparilla
Eileen and Vern Entzel says
Chris and family, I know in the weeks ahead and years ahead, you will miss her. I hope all the good memories will help you during these times. She would want you to smile and laugh over funny things that happened. She always said that smiling helps even when things are not going the way you think they should. You are in our thoughts and prayers Our deepest sympathies
Jack and Celinda Hamblin says
Chris and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this tender time. Carolyn has touched our lives and made us better people. Yours is a beautiful family, and Carolyn’s influence will be felt by us all. May the Lord bless you always.
Mary Winterton says
Carolyn has been involved with our family from the time she was a young missionary in Australia with my parents 30+ years ago.
So glad our paths crossed again in Butte and we have been able to watch your family grow up.
It was the Hopkins that introduced us to Island Park and “sold” us on making it our home away from home.
Carolyn was willing to show me her secret huckleberry patch and insisted I take the ones she picked as well:)
She had a passion for life and I was always envious of her fishing skills!
Always the adventurer and willing to include all, Carolyn was the whole package.
She was willing to tackle just about anything, including cabin construction.
Carolyn was talented, smart, funny, compassionate and understanding to name just a few of her attributes.
We will miss her so much, but will not forget her voice, her smile, her hugs.
We love the Hopkins. May you feel comfort and peace as she watches over each of you.
Lyle and Mary Winterton
Don and Melissa Hartman says
Dear Chris and family – Carolyn will be thought of so very often. I loved her smile and she always had a wave when driving by.
She leaves a great example to follow.
Corriene Goddard says
Chris, Kelsey, and family,
Carolyn will be missed. We’re so sorry for your loss.
Cori and Tessa Goddard
Jean jones says
Chris and family, I am truly sorry for your loss. What an amazing woman she was. She inspired and helped so many. Her kind smile made so many happy. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jean Jones
Mary Luhr says
Chris,
So sorry for your loss. May God hold you and your family in His hand and comfort you!
Lindsay Frost says
Chris and family, I am heartbroken to hear of Carolyn’s passing. She was an absolutely person who will truly be missed by so many. I always enjoyed spending time golfing or helping her with Special Olympics Bowling. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.
Rick Powell says
I was sorry to see Carolyn’s passing. I enjoyed working with her. She was positive, cared deeply about her students and enjoyed life. Her life was cut short but she sure did a lot of good while she was here. God bless all of you.
Sandy and Pat Anderson says
I’m so sorry for Carolyn’s passing! My thoughts and prayers to Chris and juds!
Clyde Leischner says
I am saddened by your family loss. Find strength in the memories of the past.
Darik and Michelle Croft says
Chris and kids,
We are so sorry and heartbroken that Carolyn is gone. What an amazing legacy she has left. She was such a great example to all of us that knew her and I am so grateful that I could call her a friend. We love all of you and hope that the days become less and less difficult.
Much love and even more prayers
Beth & Marv Rallison & Family says
875 Donner Way #1203
Beth & Marv Rallison & Family says
Dear Chris and Family,
We were so sorry to hear of Carolyn’s death, though we were aware of her fierce and valiant fight with cancer.
We send our condolences to you and your family and hope your memories of Carolyn will buoy you and your family up now and in the future. we were impressed by her educational achievements with children of special needs and her involvement with Special Olympic children. She was a marvelous woman. mother, wife and her life was filled with service to others. We will miss seeing Carolyn in Island Park at your mother’s cabin and in the huckleberry patches, but we hope to maintain a close tie with you and your family through JoAnn.
Meliska Collins says
Dear Chris and Family.I’m so sorry for your loss of Carolyn Hopkins she was amazing couch during the special olympics season and having a good time on the track&field and a wonderful school teacher to me and my brother both even though i had some times with it but i’m over it now time to move forward with my life.Fr Meliska Erick Linda