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McIlraith, Carol Jane

Carol was born on February 11, 1951 and lost her 14 month battle with cancer (UPSC) on December 7, 2016

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Carol was an independent, strong willed woman who was generous to a fault especially with family, friends and church (Saint Patrick’s, Lebanon, WI). She had a huge heart and deep pockets for those causes she loved and was looking forward to her retirement which was, sadly, cut way to short. The outdoors, far more than the indoors was her favorite place to be unless she was in her kitchen baking up a storm and showering everyone she could with her fantastic treats like Lemon Bars (Thank you Rice’s Greenhouses for the fresh lemons) and Butterfinger cake. She was diligent about feeding her birds all year long. The “hummers” will miss her this spring as will the Hosta beds and huge vegetable garden. Because of her way with animals, especially dogs, we fondly called her the “dog whisperer”. One of her most fulfilling undertakings was mentoring young girls in the New London Middle School Adult Mentoring Program for which she received The President’s Volunteer Service Award. Knowing that she was making a difference in a young girl’s life, and providing an example of what a single woman can be was very important to her. She was a second “mom” to her nieces, Erin and Devyn who will have a big hole in their hearts where she touched them often. They loved her phone calls and funny cards, always unique and special. Her biggest regret was leaving her mom behind. She checked on mom daily and would take her on outings all over the area. Sometimes they’d just go for a ride to look for Eagles or Snow owls. Carol was one of the first women to work at Curwood Inc. She was proud of her ability to “keep up with the boys” or show them up. She always had a good joke up her sleeve. She retired in October 2015 with 40 years of service behind her. She was a proud United Paper Workers Union supporter recognizing the importance of having a voice in your workplace. She held the position of Sargent in Arms for many years.

Carol is survived by her mother, Dorothy; sister, Kathleen; brother, Bob (Sue); nieces, Erin (Austin Peasley) and Devyn (Trevor Mishler); brother, Jim and beloved dog Cheyanne III. She was preceded in death by her maternal and fraternal grandparents and father, Emmet.

A memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, Lebanon with Father Xaiver officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers please generously donate to The Feather Wildlife Rehab/Education Center in care of Pat Fisher. This was one of Carol’s favorites. The Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London is serving the family. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com

Thank you to all her friends, to many to list. Thank you for all your strength, help and support in the last year. You know she loved you with all her heart. A special thank you to neighbors Alice and Randy Behnke for being the kind people you are and all your help in the final days. Thank you to the health care providers; doctors, nurses, assistants, social workers, therapists, and Hospice care workers, who gave of their time, energy and knowledge and fought to give Carol all the extra time they could muster in this life. We are truly grateful to each and every one of you. We will miss you Carol. There will never be another like you.

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