Carol J. (Mrs. Maynard) Rice, 77, Oconto Falls, died peacefully Monday morning, Nov. 9, 2009, at home with her family by her side.

She was born Dec. 15, 1931, in the town of Lena to the late Edwin and Ella Bigelow. She grew up in the area where she attended Oconto Falls Public Schools, graduating from high school with the class of 1950.

On June 24th, 1950, she married Maynard Rice at Grace Lutheran Church in Oconto Falls.

Carol enjoyed gardening, helping her husband with his vegetable garden and canning what they would harvest. Flower gardening and ceramics were also activities that she enjoyed. Carol enjoyed special times with family and friends. She was very proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchild.

Survivors include her loving husband of 59 years, Maynard Rice, Oconto Falls; their three daughters, Pamela (Larry) Lemorande, Oconto Falls; Linda (Larry) Pelishek, Abrams; Cynthia (Dan) Brokiewicz, Bonduel; three grandchildren, Andy Lemorande, Green Bay; Brent (Melodie) Lemorande, Oconto Falls; Amanda (Nate) Sutrick, Town of Chase; two step-grandchildren, Sarah (Tim) Via, Gillett; Joshua (Rachael) Brokiewicz, San Diego, CA; one great-grandchild, Gavin Sutrick; one sister, Betty Krumrei, Suamico; one brother, Neil Bigelow, Oconto Falls; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, seven brothers and three sisters.

Friends may call at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls (920-848-2222 or visit: www.jonesfuneral.com) after 11 a.m. Friday, November 13, 2009, until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with the Rev. Doreen Jeffers officiating. Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery, Oconto Falls.