Carolyn Stelling

Age 81. Carolyn died surrounded by family. She is the beloved Bride of Bradley J. Stelling for 54 years. Loving mother of Jeffrey and Thi, Matthew and Mary Kay, Peter and Jackie, Mitch and Amy. Cherished grandmother of Marry Lynn and Matt, Phillip and Bayleigh, Jonathon, Melanie, Tucker, Naomi, James, and Audrey. Great grandmother of Gus and Cooper.

Carolyn had a full and blessed life. She grew up in Westfield New Jersey; her parents were Philip and Claudia. She had one loving sister Janet who died too early in life.

Carolyn met the love of her life, Brad, in high school. After Dad got back from the Army they married in 1961. Unfortunately, Carolyn had to give up the job she loved as an airline stewardess for American Airlines to marry Brad. Mom remained honorably connected to her Kiwi Club until the end. Brad received a sales job in Colorado and their journey west began. Grammy Claudia followed. Brad and Carolyn had four wonderful boys! Dad eventually got into banking while mom worked a daycare out of her home, as if her four were not handful enough. Eventually, mom became the athletic secretary at Boulder High School. After her retirement, she continued her fond connection with her “lunch bunch” group also until the end.

Carolyn shaped five wonderful men with her love, patience and beautiful teachings on the fine ways of living. Her passion for the details in life made everything that much more special and memorable. Her proper yet carefree, full of life, personality made her beautifully unique. Mom loved ironing, cooking, gardening, golfing, fishing, camping, and most especially travelling the country in their camper when dad retired. Mom gave great attention to her perfect hairstyle, make-up and painted nails. She was always dressed either classy with her accouterment of scarves or just matching so cute with the up to date styles. While mom lived in a masculine world, she was the most wonderful, loving, devoted, “lady” you could ever meet. However, it was great fun to see her let loose with family and friends with some of her colorful words and certain gestures. Mom was a hoot! She left an indelible mark on anyone she ever met. The world was definitely a better place with her in it. Her fun and loving effects will continue to live on through all of us that have her in our heart.

Carolyn will be terribly missed by her latest family at her memory care community. She once again made a definite impact on the lovely care staff that took wonderful care of her. Despite moms various health challenges throughout her life, she showed great courage in strength and endurance. Our Stelling family wants to personally and gratefully thank every one of you that were there for her and us in this most difficult chapter of her life. Mom is at peace now and once again reconnected with the love of her life. She would want us all to remember her fondly and cherish the amazing memories. So lift a glass with vodka, tonic and three olives and toast to Mom. Please always remember our “Sweet Caroline!” (Neil Diamond)

If you wish, memorial contributions may be made to Safehouse Denver, an organization Carolyn and her Kiwi club was pleased to assist.