Carol (Anderson) Gardner, 76

Carol (Anderson) Gardner, 76, of Woodstock, passed away Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021, in Huntley. She was born Sept. 28, 1944, in Raymond, Wash., to Melvin and Agnes Anderson.

Carol grew up in Chicago, and then Western Springs, Ill., and graduated from Lyons Township High School in 1963. She then went on to study Spanish and biology at Illinois State University, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1967. It was at ISU that she met her husband, Ken, to whom she was married for 46 years. She later went on to complete her master’s degree at Northern Illinois University.

Carol taught Spanish at Woodstock High School for 32 years. She inspired a love of the Spanish language in many students. She also loved teaching her students about Hispanic and Latino cultures, especially through field trips.

Carol was also a loving wife, mother, and friend to many, known for her can-do attitude, generosity, and good humor. A proud “cat lady,” she adopted several cats throughout her life.

In her retirement years, Carol happily spent many hours gardening, and was a member of the Woodstock Garden Club for several years. Colorful blooms and abundant holiday displays were prominent features at her home, which included a backyard pond and stream. She was a collector of snail-themed memorabilia and an ardent Betty Boop enthusiast. She also loved traveling, visiting six different continents throughout her many years of travel.

However, Carol’s biggest passion in retirement was her grandkids. She babysat for them regularly, and loved spending time with them. They absolutely adored her.

Carol is survived by her daughter, Katrina (Marc) McLaughlin; her grandkids, Cailin and Xander; and her sister, Edna Anderson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Gardner, and her parents.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Helping Paws Animal Shelter at helpingpaws.net.