Carolyn Lynn Illing

FAIRHOPE Carolyn (Lynn) Illing passed away at her residence on Thursday, January 27, 2011. Lynn was born in Delevan, Wisconsin on December 12, 1919 to Ira (Jack) and Eleanor Sodders and moved at a young age with her family to Chicago, Illinois. As an only child, she was happy to have lived near cousins, aunts and uncles. Lynn graduated from Sullivan High School where she met her future husband, Bill, and worked for the telephone company for four years before they married in 1942. With a new baby and a husband in the Pacific, Lynn moved between families. Once the War was over and a second child arrived, Bill began to work for Gulf Oil which enabled the family to move to numerous locations. Lynn’s good cooking and friendly spirit made each new location comfortable and home. In 1979, after several attempts to find the perfect retirement area, the couple settled in Fairhope and felt blessed ever after! Lynn was active in the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary, activities at the Nix Center, Red Hats, East Gate neighborhood association and a faithful member of Fairhope United Methodist Church. But, most of all, she was devoted to her family. She gave her family and those she held dear her unconditional love, support, enthusiasm, and optimism. Her caring ways, loving heart, and gentle soul will be missed. Mrs. Illing was preceded in death by her husband, William Illing. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra (Tad) Oelstrom, of Boston, MA; her son, William R. (Patricia) Illing, Jr., of Kansas City, KS; six grandchildren, Kristin Meikle, Stephanie Rubin, Mary Hatley, Robert Illing, Anne Williams and Megan Brand; and nine great-grandchildren, Mason & Ellie Hatley, Anna & Gareth Meikle, Luke, Chase, & Jack Rubin, Lilly & Raley Williams. A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 10:00 am at Fairhope United Methodist Church with Rev. Mike McKnight officiating and assisted by Dr. Anne Pearson. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL 36532 ARRANGEMENTS BYWOLFE-BAYVIEW FUNERAL HOMES& CREMATORY, INC19698 GREENO ROADFAIRHOPE, AL 36532