ERIE, PA—Beverly “Carole” C. Mintsiveris, 86, of Erie, PA, formerly of Hawarden, died Jan. 30 2026, surrounded by her children, into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Born in Hawarden, IA, Carole was the daughter of the late Elmer and Mayme (Rosemore) Swanson of rural Alcester, SD.
Carole was raised on her family farm and graduated from Hawarden High School in Hawarden, Iowa, and South Dakota State University. She moved to southern California for work and met her future husband, Steve Mintsiveris of Erie, PA, who was doing his graduate work in Education there. After starting a family, Steve and Carole relocated to Erie where Carole was a homemaker, gardener, professional housekeeper but most importantly a wonderful wife, mother and grandma who loved her family and her Lord with all her heart.
Carole was proud of her Swedish heritage and had an exceptional eye for art and design. She created a family home of great charm, warmth and welcome that was immediately felt by all who entered. She was an excellent cook and baker, and she enjoyed sharing her talents with friends and family over the years. Her flaky pie crusts were particularly renowned. She was a faithful member of Grace Church and made many lifelong friends there. We will miss you, Mom – your many examples of kindness, devotion, and quiet generosity will always instruct and inspire us.
In addition to her parents, Carole was preceded in death by her husband, Stephen Mintsiveris; her sister, Eileen (Swanson) Tilgner; cousin, Roger Sonichsen; and nephew, Tracy Tilgner.
Survivors include her son, Dana (Jill) Mintsiveris of Erie; and daughter, Melanie (Edward) Martin of Lynchburg, VA; and adoring grandchildren, Sophie Mintsiveris and Naomi and Luke Martin. She is also survived by her nephew, Kory (Margaret) Swanson of Durham, NC, and formerly of Hawarden; her cousin, Connie Hall of Sioux Falls, SD; and the family of her late cousin, Roger – wife, Caren Sonichsen of rural Alcester, SD, and children, Troy Sonichsen of Sioux City, IA, Tara Johnson of Hawarden, IA, and Teresa Bell of Sioux Falls, SD.
Carole’s funeral was held Saturday, Feb. 14, at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home in Erie, PA, officiated by Pastor Al Detter. Burial was at Laurel Hill Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the angels at the PA Soldiers & Sailors Home and Aseracare Hospice for the wonderful care Mom received. Memorial contributions in Carole’s honor may be made to Grace Church (whoisgrace.com).