Caroline Anne Semler

It is with heavy hearts we announce that on Thursday, February 8th, 2024, at age 75, beloved mother and grandmother Caroline (Carol) Anne Semler passed away at Surrey Memorial Hospital with her children by her side. Born in Vancouver BC in January 1949, Carol embarked on a lifelong journey with family as the cornerstone. Carol was the eldest of five children, and regularly looked after her younger siblings and cousins. After starting her own family, Carol devoted herself wholeheartedly to the role of housewife and caregiver, nurturing her three children with boundless love and support. In addition to caring for her own family, Carol took on providing daycare for her sisters' children while her two sisters worked. Later on Carol opened her heart and home to her son and his future wife and newborn child, offering them the stability and support they needed to get on their feet.

Carol was a self-described “worker bee”, and worked hard both within and outside of the home. In her early life, Carol worked as a telephone operator for BC Tel. Once her children were grown, Carol went back to work, this time as a switchboard operator for the Vancouver Police, where she found fulfillment and friendship.

Outside of her family and professional life, Carol found joy in her passion for gardening. Though her garden may have been small in size, it was a flourishing oasis and the envy of her townhouse complex. Carol also had a keen eye for bargains and a love for shopping, particularly for jewelry, which she delighted in gifting to her loved ones.

Due to injuries and misfortunes, as time went on Carol developed mobility challenges and chronic pain. Despite her suffering, Carol maintained an attitude of optimism and gratitude. She had a sincere interest in people, and came to know and be well known by her nurses and fellow patients during various hospital stays. Carol had a knack for authentic listening which drew people to her. Her stays in hospital and in the Laurel Place convalescence home often ended with her having gained a few new friends.

Above all else, Carol’s greatest joy came from being surrounded by her family, especially her children and grandchildren, whom she cherished dearly.

Carol is survived by her children Cathy (Ken Thurton) Mutis, Albert (Nina) Mutis, and John (Julie) Mutis, as well as seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She also leaves behind two sisters, two brothers, and many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and compassion that will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.