Carrielyn Wenzel

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The Life of Carrielyn Wenzel is now in the company of all of heaven. Carrielyn Schmidt Wenzel has been reunited with those who preceded her in death: parents Karl and Mittie Schmidt and a sister Jane Hafer. She is survived by daughter Mittie and son-in law David McDonald, son Dr. William Garretson and daughter-in law Catherine Harris Garretson; grandchildren Jennifer Bovermann, Michael McDonald, Katherine McDonald, Stuart Carpenter, Andrew Carpenter, and Charles Carpenter; great grandchildren Madison Abbene, Carter Bovermann, Matthew McDonald, Benjamin McDonald, and Zachary McDonald; sister Marjory Eckert and numerous relatives. Carrielyn passed away at the age of 97, February 23, 2021, in Foley, Alabama, just short of her 98th birthday. She was born April 12, 1923 in Austin, Texas, where she grew up and spent most of her adult life. Mother was a lifelong Longhorn and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and worked with both the Division of Extension and Women’s Athletics programs until retirement. She was an active member and alumna of Delta Zeta Sorority, Alpha Tau chapter, and received the Order of the Diamond for her 75-year membership. Carrielyn was a life member of St. David’s Hospital Auxiliary in Austin, member of the Gardener’s Club of Foley, belonged to numerous bridge groups, submitted winning quilt entries in the Texas State Fair of Texas several times over, and was an active member and volunteer at Foley United Methodist Church until she could no longer participate in activities. Our mother lived a full active life. She especially loved to learn about different places and travel; took pride in her garden and always had a major project underway; loved to sew and still hand quilted every quilt she made; opened her heart and door to a kitty that needed a good home; played bridge with the best of them; and most of all, cherished time with family. She loved living in Alabama her last 30 years and being close to the water, where she enjoyed going out on the ‘S. V. Carrielyn” sailboat on the Bon Secour River and sitting beachside at Gulf Shores and watching seagulls. We would like to thank the compassionate care she received by her caregivers through her end of days. We mourn our loss, but we rejoice the beautiful life she lived and the lasting smile she left with everyone she met. Even at the end, mother would always say “thank you” to those caring for her. A private family graveside service was held Friday February 26, 2021, at Bay Minette Cemetery in Alabama, officiated by Pastor Nolan Donald, Foley United Methodist Church. The family has requested no flowers; and if you wish to, donations may be made to either the charity of your choice or to the Foley United Methodist Church, 915 North Pine Street, Foley, AL 36535 in her name.