Carol Arlene Diflauro

Carol Arlene Martins-DiFlauro, a vibrant and compassionate soul, passed away peacefully in Oklahoma, where she had moved to be near her daughter Tamara after falling ill. Born on May 11, 944, in Southern California to Jake and Isabell Martins, Carol grew up in the warm sunshine of Pasadena and attended Pasadena High School.

Carol lived a full and spirited life, always quick to smile and even quicker to laugh. Her days were made perfect by time spent with her beloved family. Whether she was casting a line at Lake Havasu, diving into family genealogy, or cheering on her great-grandson Matthew from the sidelines of a soccer field, Carol’s heart was always full.

Her love for country music—especially the songs of Alan Jackson and Kenny Chesney—was the soundtrack to her life. She brought that same warmth and joy to every room she entered.

Carol’s career was rooted in service and precision. She worked tirelessly in various roles, including with Weights and Measures, the USDA as a meat inspector, and at Hesperia Lake. Her commitment to community extended into her passions—she was a proud member of the Root Diggers genealogy group, the Daughters of the Confederacy, and the Orchid Society.

Carol’s legacy is one of kindness, laughter, and unwavering love. She will be remembered for the compassion in her heart, her bubbly spirit, and the memories she created with those she loved most.

Carol is preceded in death by her daughter, Michelle DiFlauro, brothers, Tom Phelam and Donald Phelam, sisters, Charolette Ficek and Sandra Martins, and brother-in-law, Larry Ficek, and fur baby Buster.

She is survived by daughter, Tamara Hantke, grandchildren, Chelsea McCarthy and husband Sean, Autumn Lee, Kadee Hantke, and Ryan Hantke, great-grandson, Matthew McCarthy, brother Ron Phelam and wife Rosie, sister, Dorothy Miller and husband Norm, sister-in-law, Sally Phelam, special nieces and nephews Becky, Burt, Rhonda, Ray and Rich, goddaughter Sandy Dimatteo and fur babies, Parker and Macy