Carol Jean Dillin

Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever.

Obituary

Carol Jean Dillin (born Owens), 66, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren, following a period of illness and chronic health challenges.

Born on the Fourth of July in 1960 to John and Mary Ann Owens, Carol was the fourth of five children and the only daughter in a household full of boys. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, near Jones Park, and attended St. Ludmila's Catholic Church throughout her childhood. She graduated from LaSalle High School in 1978 and went on to attend the University of Iowa, remaining a proud and devoted Hawkeye fan throughout her life.

Carol dedicated her professional life to serving children and adults with disabilities. In Northwest Ohio, she worked at Sunshine Children's Home and Luther Home of Mercy, and later at Tempe Center of Rehabilitation in Arizona. Her patience, compassion, and creativity allowed her to connect with those in her care in meaningful ways. More than simply a career, her work reflected her belief in the dignity and worth of every individual. She left a lasting impression on the many clients and families whose lives she touched.

Of all the roles Carol held throughout her life, none brought her greater pride or joy than being a mother to her daughter, Chelsea Faith, and "Mimi" to her five beloved grandchildren: Mia Grace, Morgan Rose, Sophia Jean, Dillin Michael, and Sarah Abigail. Her family was truly the center of her world. Whether cheering from the audience at a dance performance, sitting on the sidelines of a volleyball or basketball game, attending a school function, or gathering around the table for a holiday, Carol was there. She celebrated every milestone, big or small, and found her greatest happiness in simply being present for the people she loved.

Carol's nurturing spirit extended beyond her own family. She had the special privilege of caring for Karolina and Jarrett Kellogg during their early years, welcoming them into her heart and loving them as though they were her own. Her capacity to love and care for others was one of the many gifts she shared so generously throughout her life.

A woman of enduring Catholic faith, Carol remained faithful until the very end. Her faith was a source of strength throughout her life, and one of the most meaningful gifts she passed on to her daughter and grandchildren. Through her example, she instilled the importance of faith, family, compassion, and love.

To those who knew her best, Carol will forever be remembered as Mimi—always ready for a snuggle, a good laugh, a piece of chocolate cake with ice cream, or a shoulder to lean on. She had a way of delivering a perfectly timed one-liner that could bring laughter to any room. She loved a warm cup of hot chocolate, the companionship of animals, and especially her beloved puppy, Lilly. It was often the simplest pleasures that brought Carol the greatest joy, and those everyday moments will become some of her family's most treasured memories.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Ann Owens; her brother, John "Jack" Michael Owens; her niece, Dana Owens; and Kali Owens.

She is survived by her daughter, Chelsea (Dillin) McKone, and son-in-law, Mark McKone, along with their five children, Mia, Morgan, Sophia, Dillin, and Sarah. She is also survived by her brothers, Bernie (Diane) Owens of Scottsdale, Arizona; Bob Owens of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Tom (Annette) Owens of Rhinelander, Wisconsin; and her sister-in-law, Shawnee Owens of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Carol's life was not measured simply by the years she lived, but by the love she gave, the people she cared for, and the family she held so dear. Her legacy lives on in the faith she shared, the laughter she inspired, and the countless memories made in the everyday moments of life.

Though her family will deeply miss her presence, her quick wit, her comforting hugs, and the familiar sound of her cheering them on, they will carry her love with them always.

Forever loved, forever missed, and forever Mimi.

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