In loving memory of

Lani Lin Carson
February 27, 1974 - April 11, 2011

Lani (Torkelson) Carson, age 37, passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines on Monday, April 11, 2011. Visitation will be held Thursday April 14, 2011 from 6 to 8 p.m. and a 10:30 a.m. funeral will follow on Friday, April 15, 2011 at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care in Ames. Burial will be at the Slater Cemetery.
Lani was born February 27, 1974, in Mason City IA. She was the daughter of Mel and Donna Torkelson. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1992 and received her bachelor's degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1997. Immediately following graduation, she worked for American Enterprise until October 1, 2010. On October 12, 2002, she married Lance Carson. They made their home in Sheldahl, IA; moving to Huxley, IA; in July 2009.
Lani enjoyed spending time with her children Lindsay 7, Landan 5, husband, Lance and many friends. In October 2008 she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She underwent treatment and was thought to be cancer-free in January 2010. However, in April 2010 the cancer had returned with a vengeance. Lani was always concerned for the well-being of others before herself. Even thru her treatments she was always afraid of causing hardships on others when she was in need of assistance. Her wonderful smile and gleaming spirit always shined thru no matter how badly she felt.
Left to share her memories are her husband, Lance and children - Lindsay and Landan, Huxley, IA, her parents - Mel and Donna Torkelson, Mason City, a brother - Ryan Torkelson and his wife, April and their 3 children - Tyler, Treyton, Trevor, her Mother-in-law - Kaye Carson - Slater, IA, her Grandfather - Donald F Fraser of Des Moines IA, numerous Aunts, Uncles , Cousins and many special friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lani Carson Memorial Fund.
Online condolences may be sent to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com

Tributes

Kim Vorce Jorgensen wrote on Apr 16, 2011:

"I am so sorry to hear of Lani's passing. My thoughts are with your family during this difficult time."

Peggy Koster wrote on Apr 15, 2011:

"Mel, Donna, and family, I'm so sorry about Lani. She was so very young. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. My deepest sympathy. "

Rita Boatwright wrote on Apr 14, 2011:

"To Lani's Family - I am so very sorry for your loss. I worked with Lani at American Republic/American Enterprise for many years. She was always helpful and cheerful. She inspired all of us with her courage and positive outlook. We all miss her."

Eb and Sherry Knuth wrote on Apr 14, 2011:

"Lance, Lindsay & Landan, We are so sorry for your loss! We will be praying that you all will sense Jesus' comfort during this great loss."

Eb and Sherry Knuth wrote on Apr 14, 2011:

"Lance, Lindsay & Landan, We are so sorry for your loss! We will be praying that you all will sense Jesus' comfort during this great loss."

Denise Lea Jensen wrote on Apr 14, 2011:

"I remember Lani as one of the kindest people I knew throughout our childhood. She was a great classmate and friend. I can only imagine in later years how wonderful wife and mother she must have been. What a great person she was. She will be missed."

Sarah B wrote on Apr 13, 2011:

"Lani, You are a light of inspiration to everyone who was lucky enough to meet you. Your strength and kindness will live on through the lives you touched. Thank you so much for being a part of our lives. Your light will shine forever in our hearts. God Bless you!"

Kristi Alexandres Pfeifer wrote on Apr 13, 2011:

"May your family find peace and comfort knowing that you are not having to suffer anymore. Lani was such a sweet kind hearted person, and a good friend. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. "

Janet Neubauer wrote on Apr 13, 2011:

"I worked with Lani at American Republic. I was in customer service. Being a customer service representative, it was always super cool to have the the IT employees to help us when needed. Lani was always there with a smile on her face ready to help us. She is a true gem. Take care of yourself and those 2 wonderful children. "

Tonya Kahler Spencer wrote on Apr 12, 2011:

"I went to school with Lani and she was always a great person. When ever you needed a smile she was the person to go to. Class of 1992 will miss her forever! Rest confortably Lani! God Bless to the family and prayers sent out to you! "

David A. Grooters, Mason City, Iowa wrote on Apr 12, 2011:

"I went to school with Lani from 4th grade through high school. Though we hadn't spoken in a very long time, I will always remember an infectious smile and a good natured classmate. RIP Lani, and my most sincerely condolences to the family."

Stacy Parcher wrote on Apr 12, 2011:

"To my bestest, soul-mate sister, forever friend... You mean so much to me and how I will miss you is indescribable. You were there everytime I needed a laugh, shoulder to cry on, someone to hold my hand, someone to put me in my place, for guidance, and for so many other things. I know that you are no longer in no more pain and are living forever amongst all the angels. Please still guide me and look over me as you would have on this earth. I love ya and miss ya forever, forever and ever. Please save me a seat at the tea table.... Always loving ya!! "

Rachel Anglick wrote on Apr 12, 2011:

"You have left us Lani but will NEVER be forgotten. I will see your smiling face in every sunrise and flower. Love you lots girl and miss you forever!"