January 27, 1943 – October 17, 2024
Carolyn Emily Bates (nee Duench), a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2024, at the age of 81. Predeceased by husband John (2013), mother Evelyn Duench (2005) and father Milton Duench (1952), Carolyn is survived by her children, Jamie (Sherri) and Sarah (Jeff). She was a proud grandmother to two much-loved grandchildren, Matt and Ollie.
Carolyn’s warmth, humour and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her. After growing up in Waterloo, she trained as a nurse at Sick Kids Hospital in the 1960s and never stopped being a devoted and loving caregiver, first to her children and then, for many years, looking after her ageing mother (Evelyn) and husband John following his long term brain injury. Carolyn and John lived in Guelph for many years where they were blessed with a rich community of friends, and spent many happy weekends at Lutheranch in Holland Centre. In 2019, Carolyn moved to Musquodoboit Harbour, Nova Scotia to live with son Jamie and daughter-in-law Sherri, where she enjoyed a beautiful ocean view every day.
Carolyn was an avid reader and self-taught artist. Many friends, family and fellow church members enjoyed receiving bespoke birthday cards that were hand-painted with love. We will always remember how much she loved her cat Nanuk, her ‘grand-dogs’ in Musquodoboit Harbour, Christopher Plummer, Downton Abbey, crosswords, England, crocheting, a good rye, endless news cycles on CNN, the Blue Jays and iced coffees from Tim Horton’s, among many other simple pleasures in life that brought her happiness.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held in Guelph to honour Carolyn’s memory at a later date. If you would like to be contacted with details of the event, please email [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, All Saints Lutheran Anglican Church in Guelph, or a charity of your choice in Carolyn’s name would be appreciated.