Carleen Carstens, beloved mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, at the age of 92. She was born on April 8, 1932, in Sioux City, Iowa, as the only child of Carl and Lillian Waugh.

Carleen earned her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Dakota in 1953. It was there that she met her future husband, George Carstens Jr. of Mitchell, South Dakota, with whom she was married for over 50 years. In 1976, Carleen furthered her commitment to teaching by earning a Master's degree in Special Education from the University of Texas at Dallas.

A devoted school teacher, Carleen began her career in Elk Point, South Dakota, where she taught before starting her family. Later, she resumed teaching in Garland, Texas, touching countless lives with her kindness, patience, and dedication to her students.

Carleen is survived by her three children and their families: her son Dr. George Carstens III, his wife Robin, and his children Elizabeth, Emily, and John; her son Dr. Paul Carstens, his wife Kristin, and their children Paul II and Rachael; and her son Mr. David Carstens, his wife Valerie, and their children David Jr., Robert, and Lillian. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. George Carstens, in 2007.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Sparkman Hillcrest on Northwest Highway. Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, March 25, at 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Richardson. Carleen will be laid to rest 2:00 PM Friday,  April 11, 2025 in Mitchell, South Dakota, at Graceland Cemetery, reuniting her with her beloved George.

Carleen's warmth, wisdom, and wonderful cooking will be deeply missed.