Carol (Berger) Younghans passed away at home on January 25 after a long illness and embraced her passing by using medical aid in dying. She was born in Denver on May 23, 1943, the daughter of Sid and Ruth Berger, and grew up on Raleigh Street in a West Side Jewish neighborhood. As an adult looking back, she recognized what an extraordinarily special place Raleigh Street was and cherished her memories of street dances on the High Holy Jewish holidays and summer evenings playing hide-n-go-seek and waiting for the ice cream man. Neighbors took care of each other, and you always felt safe.
And well-fed!
Carol was a dedicated educator of kids and teachers for 42 years. She was passionate about books; thoughtful discussions; writing; music (especially opera); dance (especially the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre); physical fitness; hiking; traveling; cats; and animal rights and welfare.
She was a gentle, kind-hearted soul with a keen mind and quick wit.
Carol never gave up her hope for peace on earth.
She is survived by her son David Younghans (Lafayette, CO); daughter-in-law Charity Younghans (Lafayette); brother Ron Berger (Portland, Oregon); sister-in-law Martha Sullivan Berger (Portland); sister-in-law Sandy Younghans (Lafayette); long-term partner and love of her life Ray Hockedy (Boulder, CO); and many loved and valued friends.
Predeceased by brother Mike Berger, Tucson, Arizona
Contributions can be made in Carol’s name to The Trees Remember:alivingtribute.org
Condolences may be sent to Ray Hockedy, 2725 Northbrook Pl, Boulder, CO, 80304
Carol, Carol! What great memories we had of teaching at Smedley School in Denver and enjoying the Denver”scene” as it was when we were in our twenties. I also have fond memories of our trip to visit my brother in Miami one spring break. I have often thought of you through the years and more so as we have aged and memories seem to crowd out thoughts.
Blessings on your family. Thank you for such wonderful times together. Val
What a remarkable woman was Carol. I cannot add to the already long list of folks who can express better than I am able. What I do wish to communicate is how fortunate you both were to find each other later in life.. For me, I take comfort that she was able to share her transition surrounded and aided by you and a small circle of her loved ones.
The world has lost yet another compassionate and caring soul.
Blessings,
Maita
I treasure the opportunity to work with and know Carol. She was a consumate educator who cared about children’s learning as much as she care about adults’ learning. She had the ability to generate deep connections with people in a short time and build lasting relationships that touched people’s spirits. I’ll always remember how she considered the needs of teachers who, after a long day with students, would come to professional learning to grow as professionals. She energized and respected them and they shined. Carol was an asset to every school, program, and group she joined. She brought a warms of spirit that made people feel comfortable and important. For that modeling, I am grateful and will strive to be more Carol-like in my connection to others. To a life well-lived, Carol, I honor you.
I have so many fond memories of my dear friend Carol. What I appreciated most about Carol was her warmth, compassion and deep caring for others. She loved life, she was fun to be with, she had a magnetic personality and brought light with her wherever she went. She also gave her all to supporting educators to become the best they could be. That was her passion. She also loved her family. They were her heart. I am better for having known Carol.
Carol was one of our staff development “tribe” in the five star school district. We all were fortunate and favored by the gods to have spent work and friend time with Carol. Her gentle way of being and caring uplifted many of us and enriched all who were blessed to have had her pass through their lives. We all continue to share her wisdom and light through our many learnings from her.