Carol Jane Billen, Riverside, California
Obituary | Carol Jane Billen of Riverside, California | Melby Mortuary
October 1, 1941 - January 17, 2022
Carol Jane Billen (Thompson) was born in Mankato, Kansas on October 1, 1941, to Lawrence and Juanita Thompson. She was raised in the heartland farming community of Mankato until 1963, when she met her soon-to-be husband, Bobby Billen, to whom she was married for 57 years.
They settled in Denver, Colorado, where together they raised two boys while enjoying and appreciating the natural beauty of the mountain west.
In Denver, Carol Jane became a registered nurse and worked in a family medical practice for years, where she loved helping others in need. She then joined husband Bobby in forming their own family business, Billen Motor Company. The small car dealership in Wheat Ridge, Colorado thrived for over 30 years almost entirely on repeat customers whose loyalty was earned through unyielding honesty and integrity.
First and foremost, Carol Jane loved to spend time with her beloved family. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter whose uncommon love and companionship contributed immeasurably to the lives of everybody who knew her. In her spare time, she loved to read books, take care of her beautiful home in Golden, Colorado, and go shopping since she had an impeccable sense of fashion. She loved traveling with Bobby, often to Las Vegas where she loved to shop and take in the shows. She was known for her spontaneous sense of humor, her heartwarming laughter, and loving kindness to all.
Carol Jane is survived by her children Troy (Dana), and Justin (Stacy), brother Larry Thompson (Karen) of Oberlin, Kansas and two grandchildren, Jared and Aubren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Bobby, and infant son Matthew.
A service will be held on Saturday, May 28th at 10:00 a.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Mankato, Kansas, with Pastor Jim Rice officiating.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Carol's name to the National Alzheimer’s Association in care of Melby Mortuary, P.O. Box 384, Mankato, KS 66956.
For online condolences, please visit www.melbymortuary.com.
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