Caroline Leal Garrick

Caroline Garrick, aged 87, passed away on Monday, July 1, 2024. Caroline was born in Constantine, Michigan, to Joe and Kay Gasser on February 3, 1937. She was the second of three children.

Caroline spent most of her childhood in St. Johns, Michigan. She graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High in 1955. Caroline earned her B.A. from Michigan State University and remained a loyal Spartan her entire life. She also earned an M.A. in Reading later in life.

In February of 1963, Caroline married Bernie Garrick. The two shared a fulfilling life until Bernie’s death in 2012. They traveled together, enjoying the company of friends. Caroline and Bernie were also the proud “parents” of many dogs and cats over the years. No “children” were more appreciated or spoiled! Caroline’s last pet, Sunny, a rambunctious orange cat, provided entertainment during her final years.

Caroline and Bernie were aunt and uncle to several nieces and nephews. For the several years they lived on Green Lake, Interlochen, Michigan, Caroline and Bernie opened their home to their family. Nieces and nephews would happily wander between the homes of grandparents and aunts and uncles, playing in the lake and in the woods. 

Caroline taught school for 42 years. Her career spanned multiple cities, with her primary teaching years being spent in Alpena, Michigan, and Alamogordo (La Luz), New Mexico. Caroline’s love for children and reading impacted many young lives.

Caroline was preceded in death by her husband, Bernie, her parents, Joe and Kay, her brother and sister-in-law, David and Betsy, and her sister, Jan. She is survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as her special girl, Sunny, the cat.

Following Caroline’s wishes, there will be no service. Caroline asked that her ashes be mingled with Bernie’s and spread in Interlochen and Alamogordo. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to any child literacy program or your local Humane Society.