Carolyn Ann McNown

Carolyn Ann McNown, 91 of Sherwood, formerly of Rhinelander, died on August 10, 2025, at her home. She was born on February 25, 1934 in Indianapolis, the daughter of Zane and Ruth (Edwards) Gentry. She attended schools in Indiana graduating from the Indiana University in 1956 with a BS degree in home economics. While at Indiana University she was also a proud member of the Alpha Z Delta sorority.

Carolyn married Edward “Mickey” McNown and they were blessed with 62 years of marriage before his passing on November 25, 2018. They lived in Rhinelander where Carolyn served as the head of the home economics department at Rhinelander High School until her retirement.

Carolyn and her family enjoyed many activities together. What the McNowns were known for in Rhinelander was there devotion to dog sled racing. As a family they participated in dog sledding for over 17 years. They raced all over the north and throughout the 17 some years, they cared for and trained many sled dogs. They also enjoyed traveling. They were fortunate to visit over 80 countries and all the continents, including Antarctica. She was also a past member of the First Congregational Church in Rhinelander and then the Christ the King Lutheran Church in Sherwood.

Carolyn is survived by her daughters Cindy (Russell) McNown-Perry and Lori (Clayton) Hiland, her grandson Scott Willliams and granddaughters Kendra (Jazzy) Winston and Laura Seniow, great grandchildren Atlas and Aysa, her brother Lloyd (Joyce) Gentry, nieces, nephews, other family and many friends. She was also preceded in death by her sons Richard and Scott and her parents.

Visitation for Carolyn will be held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. with funeral services following at 11 a.m., all at the Carlson Funeral Home. Reverend Timothy Grade will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Union Grove Cemetery. You may leave your private condolences for the McNown family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is serving the McNown family.