Theodore Carr

Theodore “Ted” Carr, age 77, of Ottertail , MN , died Saturday, September 27, 2008 , in MeritCare, Fargo , ND .


Ted always knew he loved a challenge. Whether is was facing an opponent in the boxing ring, serving in Korea, inspiring students or building a business, he sought out challenges that would be fulfilling and allow him the opportunity to learn.



Ted “Teddy” was born and raised in Wahpeton, ND. His love of a challenge came early on when his mother bought him and his brother each a pair of boxing gloves. Ted was a natural and soon was boxing on the then – NDSSS (ND State School of Science) college team while he was still in high school. He also helped at his grandfather’s grocery store during high school, sparking his interest in business. When Ted graduated high school in 1949, he decided to attend NDSSS where he could pursue business, boxing and football. While at NDSSS, Ted excelled in the ring and in the classroom where he was inspired by the faculty and staff to become a part of business education.



Ted went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business for the University of North Dakota . He worked for several years gaining experience as a teacher and sales manager. He received a master’s in business from the University of Minnesota and was ready to return to his hometown. In 1961, he worked as an instructor of business at NDSSS and in 1965 was appointed dean of the business division. During his tenure at the college, Ted dramatically increased student enrollment in the business division, successfully coached the Golden Gloves boxing team and introduced NDSSS to its very first computer. In 1969, Ted moved to Crookston , MN , to become the chairman of business at the University of Minnesota-Crookston where he also significantly increased enrollment. Ted says helping students was the greatest part of education.



In 1974, after several successful years in higher education, Ted was ready to use his expertise in a new way – running a business instead of teaching business theory. Inspired by his sons, Ted began his journey of more than 20 years of successful family businesses including Carr’s Tree Service, Carr’s Lake Country Supermarket, and Carr Enterprises. Ted would say, “running a business with your family presents the great challenges, but the greatest satisfaction.”



Recently, Ted was named NDSCS Alumnus of the Year.



Ted is survived by his wife, Alma, Ottertail, MN; sons, Bruce (Terri) Carr, Ottertail, MN; Brad (Roxane) Carr, Ottertail, MN; Brian (Kari) Carr, Fergus Falls, MN; and Steve Carr, Forest Lake, MN; daughter, Tamara (Mark) McKay, Kalamazoo, MI; twelve grandchildren, Eric Carr, Adam Carr, Jacob Carr, Stacia (Andrew) Miller, Jared Carr, Kirby (Annie) Carr, Brandon Carr, Shea Carr, Quinn Carr, and Tova, Saige, and Aiden Stratton; two great granddaughters, Macaiah and Makenzie Miller; a brother, Gary Carr, Richville, MN; and many nephews and cousins.



Preceding Ted in death are his father, Theodore O. Carr; mother, Regina McChesney; step father, Herman McChesney; and daughter, Deborah Ann Carr.