Carol Lee Kluesner

Carol Lee Gregory Kluesner, a resident of Lima, MT, passed away February 20, 2026 at the Tobacco Root Mountain Care Center in Sheridan, MT following a brave battle with cancer. She was 87 years old.

Born on October 9, 1938 in Yuba City, CA, Carol was the daughter of James and Anita Thoma. She grew up in the Yuba City and Marysville areas with her sisters Marilyn and Shirley. Carol spent her early years in the almond orchards in northern California and loved spending time at Fort Bragg, CA. She graduated from Yuba High School and married Jerry Gregory in 1961. They were blessed with three children, Jim, Steven and Dianna. Jerry was killed in a tragic automobile accident, and Carol moved to Montana for a fresh start. She married Carl Kluesner on November 26, 1982.

Carol loved gardening and had a magical green thumb. She also loved the outdoors and spent many hours lakeside in Montana and exploring any back country she could get to. She loved her multi-year stint as campground host with Carl at Reservoir Lake and Clark Canyon Dam. They also took care of maintenance at the Lima Reservoir and loved Elk Lake. She was known for "taking a drive" and ending up 300-400 miles away on an adventure. Carol also loved crime dramas and westerns. If she was not outdoors, she could be found in her chair watching her shows. Carol had a great sense of humor and a laugh that filled up the room. She could also tease with the best of them. Her yard was her sanctuary. Many friends and family were entertained on the back patio watching the fountain and sharing stories.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her spouses, her sisters, and step-son Robert Kluesner. She is survived by her children, Jim Gregory, Steven Gregory, Dianna (Gregory) & Tim Slater; step-children Mary Jane (Kluesner) & Robert Lee, Linda (Kluesner) & Jerald King, and Russell Kluesner. She also leaves behind 19 grandchildren, and 42 great-grandchildren.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she is no longer with us in body, her love and lessons remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

No services are planned at this time. Memorials may be sent to the Lima Rural Fire Department in her name. The family wishes to thank Deb Harrison, Jamie Harrison with Honeybee Hospice, and the Tobacco Root Mountain Care Center for their kindness and support the past few weeks.