GAETZ, Carol
Carol's long days' journey into night ended on May 13, 2015, 12 days following her 102 birthday, when she passed away in the Rimbey Care Centre. Carol was born May 1, 1913, to Walter and Helen Lynn, in Youngstown, Alberta. The family moved to the Rimbey area in 1928, where Carol completed her schooling and later married Earl Gaetz in 1935. They settled on a farm just north of Rimbey where their two daughters were born.
During World War II, Earl joined the RCAF, and Carol and daughters spent the war years moving to various jobs throughout Alberta. In 1946, the family settled in Edmonton. Never a stay- at- home mom, Carol took various jobs, and eventually obtained a business diploma as a comptometer operator. She worked in this field for various companies in Edmonton and Calgary.
When Earl retired from the RCAF and became the Fire Chief for DOT Whitehorse, Carol reluctantly joined him. The Native residential schools were being closed during this time and Carol became involved with providing a home and support for many of these youth. Following Earl's untimely death in 1961, she returned to Edmonton and thus began a new chapter in her life. She completed a Nurse's Aide course, and worked for the U of A and Charles Campsall hospitals, but her main focus was providing support for the young men who found their way to Edmonton from the North. She also participated in a special project caring for youth with severe antisocial problems. Over time her home in the Norwood community became a refuge for a variety of young people who needed comfort and guidance. Many of these youth were experiencing a variety of problems including run-ins with the criminal justice system, thus Carol became familiar with the courts, the local constables, lawyers, even the inside of a couple of jails. She received recognition for her work from the Province of Alberta, as well as civic and community organizations.
At age 92, Carol lost her driver's license, and decided to retire to the Parkland Manor in Rimbey. It soon became evident that dementia had begun to take its toll and she transferred to the Rimbey Care Centre. Carol was unable to live her last years with the dignity that all persons deserve. Over time she lost all physical capabilities, her mental abilities and eventually, even her speech. Dementia teaches many lessons: patience and tolerance, forgiveness and acceptance, most importantly, don't forget them. For those who have lost touch with Carol, please take a moment to remember.
We extend our gratitude to the staff at the Rimbey Care Centre who lovingly looked after Carol's every need. It is so important to have trust in the caregivers who are responsible for one so vulnerable. Many thanks, to each of you.
Carol was a lifelong member of the Church of the Nazarene and participated with and supported a number of congregations in Edmonton and Rimbey.
Carol is survived by her brother, Walter (Alice) Lynn of Rimbey, her daughters, Lois Pawl of Edmonton and Betty Webster of Sylvan Lake, ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.
A private family service will be held later in Rimbey where Carol's final resting place will be next to her husband. Condolences: www.serenity.ca
SERENITY FUNERAL SERVICE,
South Edmonton (780) 450-0101