April 30, 1954 – May 4, 2025

Carol Lynn Perkins, affectionately known as “Perky,” passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was 71 years old.

Born in Mankato, Minnesota on April 30, 1954, Carol eventually made her home in the North Shore community of Lutsen, where her vibrant spirit, generosity, and boundless energy left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Carol served for many years as a manager at Bluefin Bay, where she oversaw Interior Design and Quality Control. Her eye for detail and passion for quality helped shape the guest experience in countless ways. But her true joy was found outside the office, paddling through the Boundary Waters with her close girlfriends, traveling in the camper with her beloved partner Wayne Arnzen, and watching her sons perform music.

Carol was a fierce and loving single mother to her two sons, Joshua and Jacob Schmidt. Never one to sit still, she was known to haul furniture up a flight of stairs or portage a canoe across rugged terrain without hesitation. Her energy was unmatched, often accomplishing more in a single day than most do in a week. She was deeply rooted in her community, always offering help to others and bringing warmth wherever she went.

She is survived by partner Wayne Arnzen, her mother Clareen Perkins; siblings Patsy, Becky, and Michael Perkins; her sons Joshua (Kimberly) and Jacob (Crystal) Schmidt; and her treasured grandchildren Kaia, Indie, Lennon, and Marley Schmidt.A private memorial service will be announced at a later date. In honor of Carol’s life and legacy, donations may be made to the ALS Association.