Carol Brunsell Sears

BLOOMINGTON, IND.-Carol (Brunsell) Sears, age 86, passed away April 26, 2016 at University of Wisconsin Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin. She was the wife of long-time Bloomington, Indiana dentist, Dr. Hollis H. Sears. Born February 14, 1930, in Rock County, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Harvey A. Brunsell and Ida (Julseth) Brunsell. She grew up on a Wisconsin dairy farm, and along with the rest of her family, was strongly involved with 4-H Club activities, winning numerous awards and championships. She was named 1947 4-H Dairy Queen of the Rock County Fair, which at that time held title to being the largest 4-H fair in the United States. Recipient of the Baker Manufacturing Company Scholarship, she graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1951. As an occupational therapist at the Indiana University Medical Center, she met her husband-to-be. Following their 1953 marriage and residence in Bloomington, Indiana, she worked in the Indiana University physiology/anatomy departments, and later at the Indiana University Alumni Office. After the raising of family, she became a staff member of the Bloomington Hospital Occupational Therapy Department, retiring in 1998. Over the years, she was active in community, school, and church, and a partner and supporter of her husband with his special interests and endeavors. Her lifetime hobby included the study and collecting of American Antiques. She was also active in Hoosier Hills Art Guild. Love of history recently took her on a visit to Norway and her family roots. She was a member of Bloomington, Indiana's North Central Church of Christ, serving for many years as Sunday school teacher. Survivors include her son, Daniel H. Sears, M.D., San Diego, California; daughter, Elizabeth C. Sears, Austin, Texas; and granddaughter, Rachel E. Haines, Madison, Wisconsin; also two sisters, Nancy (Basil) Remley and Anne Brunsell; one brother, Rolland (Carol) Brunsell; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and a granddaughter, Lydia Carol Sears. Internment and family services recently took place at the family plot in historic Cooksville, Wisconsin cemetery. As with her husband, her most cherished memorials would be fond recollections and the love and respect of family and friends. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420