Carole A. Merwin

Carole A. Merwin, 82, passed away in Rockford, Illinois on Thursday, November 10, 2022 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's. Born on April 5, 1940 in Marshfield Township, Wisconsin, daughter to Francis and Frances (Veitenhans) Pigeon. A 1958 graduate of Wausau High School, Carole attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison before going on to work for Herslof Optical. This started her career as a certified ophthalmic assistant that spanned until her retirement in 2007. She married the love of her life, Clare Merwin on July 21, 1984. Her love knew no bounds and was known to humor Clare in his boating, fishing, and water activities. In her free time, Carole was musically talented and enjoyed playing violin and piano, especially with and for her grandchildren. Carole enjoyed working around the home, both indoors and outdoors. Having four growing boys, Carole found great gratification in finding coupons to help feed endless appetites and could be described as a ‘couponaholic.’ A master chef (in the boy’s eyes) she made wonderful meals that could feed an army. Carole was someone who wanted to please everyone that she knew and loved, whether that be her family, friends, her cats, or any of the numerous wild animals she tended to. As time went on, she was more than honored to show her love and support to all her grandchildren as well.

She is survived by those who loved her most, her husband of 38 years, Clare; her children Matt (Diane) Lewitzke, Jeff Merwin, John (Clareisa) Merwin and Tim Merwin; her grandchildren Abby (John) Giese, Nick (Takisha) Lewitzke, Rachel (Chris) Glarner, Michael Merwin, Maddie Merwin, Matthew and Kaitlyn Merwin; great granddaughters Charlee Giese and Olivia Glarner; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She is predeceased by her parents; her sister Kasandra Winder; her beloved cats Tootsie, Frankie, Margaret and Sassy; last but not least, Sam, the basset hound.

The Family wishes to thank the staff at The Atrium Memory Care Facility for the compassionate care Carole received during her stay. They also extend their gratitude to Mercy Home Health Hospice for their support and care.

A memorial visitation will take place on Friday, November 18, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either the Alzheimer’s Association, 1111 S. Alpine Road, #307, Rockford, Illinois 61108 or to Carpenter’s Place Outreach Center, 1149 Railroad Ave, Rockford, Illinois 61104. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com