Carol Lynn Radke

Carol was born to Rudolph and Joan Schlager in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 4, 1950. She grew up in Kiel, Wisconsin, and from an early age, she had a natural gift for caring for others — a quality that defined her life. She helped raise her four younger siblings, and that deep sense of responsibility and care only grew over the years.

She graduated from Brillion High School in 1968, pursued college courses in Milwaukee throughout the early 1970s, and later earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in sociology from Miami University in Ohio. She was a proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and was honored with the Alumni Merit Scholarship for academic excellence and leadership, a testament to her drive and ambition.

Carol's career path was a reflection of her deep compassion and tireless dedication to others. She worked in counseling and education, serving roles at Northwestern Mutual, Johnson County Memorial Hospital, the State Department of Workforce Development, and Walgreens. Even after retiring in 2011, she remained active in work and community life, always offering her time, talent, and heart.

Carol was deeply involved with the Rotary Club, where she found joy and purpose in giving back. She volunteered around the world through Habitat for Humanity. Her love of travel extended well beyond service work — her global adventures took her from New York to Paris, Rome, Germany, Wales, Israel, Egypt, and beyond.

She was an active member of The Tapestry Church, hosted exchange students, volunteered with hospice, supported animal rescues, and earned many awards through the Indianapolis Hiking Club, including the 15,000-mile badge. Carol's humor, optimism, strength, and selfless love were her trademarks, and they remained with her through her final days.

Carol is survived by her sisters Cathy Sims (Glendal), Charlene Saulsgiver (Don, deceased), and Christine Rouleau (Greg); her brother Rudy Schlager (Mary Jo); and her nieces and nephews Manda Szewczyk, Stefanie Leffert, Danielle Edgecomb, Chelsea Rouleau, Jacob Sims, and Brian Bechinski. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother-in-law Don, and her beloved pets, Precious and Pinky Loo.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Tapestry Church, 3758 W. Whiteland Rd., Bargersville, IN 46106, on Friday, October 3, 2025 (Carol’s birthday weekend), from 1–3 pm, with a eulogy to follow at 3 pm in the sanctuary led by Associate Pastor John Kixmiller. Carol’s ashes will be interred in a niche at Crown Hill.

Flowers or memorial donations may be sent to:

• Tapestry Church, 3758 W. Whiteland Rd., Bargersville, IN 46106

(c/o John Kixmiller | 317-691-2587)

• Greenwood Village South, 295 Village Lane, Greenwood, IN 46413

(c/o Karen Eiekman | 317-865-4642)

Carol will be remembered for her infectious smile, her tireless energy, and the countless ways she made life better for the people and animals around her. She gave so much, so freely, and with such joy. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed enough to know her.