Carolyn M. (Wood) Hinga

Carolyn Hinga, 89, passed away on Wednesday, June 5, 2019. She was born November 22, 1929 in Kalamazoo to the late Vern and Elizabeth (Nevins) Wood. Carolyn was united in marriage to Gordon Hinga on March 2, 1951, who preceded her in death in May of 1994.

Carolyn (Carol) had a love for life. She was young at heart, enjoying the company of those who were fortunate to have known her. She was full of spirt with a funny sense of humor, including her Carolisms, such as "Don't lose your head" and "What a gumdrop." Carol's love for people was evident in her job in retail sales. She won many awards for the most sales in her department. She was even able to sell winter coats in the middle of summer.

Carol loved cooking for her family. Her special recipes, like chili and meatloaf, became known around the neighborhood. To this day, her recipes are still being used.

Carol had a love and gift for sewing. She sewed many outfits and costumes for school. She was the go-to Mom for the "challenged" moms in the neighborhood.

Carolyn loved the sun. A pool was put in for the family when the kids were young. To assure protection from splashing, Carol designated Tuesdays as "grown-up day." Carol also loved going to Lake Michigan to be on the beach.

Carol loved to travel to warm places such as Florida, Aruba, and Houston where her daughter, Patti, lived. Laying in the sun, shopping, and going out for wine and appetizers was her perfect day.

After Carol retired from her retail job, she joined a knitting group. She became proficient at knitting—producing scarves, hats, pillows, and hot pads for her kids and grandkids.

Carol was diagnosed with dementia in 2012. She fought this horrible disease, never losing her ability to be Carol. She left a legacy within all whose lives she touched. You will be missed! You are free now. We love you Carol, Mom, Grandma!

Carolyn is survived by her children, Steve (Nancy) Hinga, Nancy (Dick) Wright, Patti (Terry) Wetzel and Jerry (Mike LeFave) Hinga; grandchildren, Mike Lee, Kimi Hinga, Jenna (Sam Freiermuth) Wetzel and Ryan Wetzel; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Frances (Vernon) Hippensteel.

The family will greet friends on Monday, June 10th from 6-8 pm at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. A private graveside service will take place at a later date at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South.

Memorial donations may be directed to Alzheimer's Association, 200 Turwill Ln., Ste 6, Kalamazoo, MI 49006 or to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.