Carol Ann Nachtrab

Carol Ann Nachtrab (Toot), of Trinity, North Carolina, peacefully received her wings on July 14, 2020. Toot was the daughter of the late Royce Russell and Dorothy Ferguson Rausch, of Napoleon, Ohio. She graduated from Napoleon High School, and went on to receive her RN from Lima Memorial School of Nursing, Lima, Ohio.

Toot spent her life caring for others as an RN in Ohio, Wyoming, Maryland and most notably, as an Army nurse in Vietnam, October 1971-May 1972. Toot was assigned to the 67th Evac Hospital in Quin Nhon and then at Cam Ranh Bay. She was honorably discharged as a Captain, US Army, with decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign, and the Bronze Star Medal. She always said, “I believe my service in Vietnam was the best nursing experience that I ever had….and I would go back in a second if asked.” Toot was married to the late Michael Stephen Nachtrab. She often said that their greatest accomplishment was their daughter, Sara Renee Nachtrab. Carol moved to NC after her retirement, to be closer to Sara. She attended Laurel Oak Christian Church in High Point. She shared a home in Trinity, with her daughter, Sara and Sara’s fiancée, Logan Jones.

Toot is survived by her daughter Sara (Logan), of Trinity; brother, Roger Rausch, Indiana; brother, Lynn Rausch (Kathy), Napoleon, Ohio; and brother, Wayne Rausch (Anne), Napoleon, Ohio; and six nieces and nephews as well as seven grand nieces and nephews. Without question, Aunt Toot loved each and every one. While Sara was her only daughter, she was mother to many.

Carol spent the greater part of the past year in and out of hospitals and rehab facilities. Staff learned what her family and friends have always known: Carol Nachtrab had the gift of humor even during the toughest of situations. Friends and family alike knew that Carol was the one to turn to when problems, questions, or concerns were on the horizon. She was always level-headed, with a very dry sense of humor. Everyone learned: if you didn’t want the truth, don’t go to Carol, because she was truthful and kind, all wrapped in humor.

There will be a graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

One of Carol’s last requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Gateway Education Center P.T.A., or to Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association, 3205 E. Wendover Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27405.