Carol Bauer Obituary

Carol Anne (Williams) Bauer, 77, passed away Sunday August 4, 2024 at Calvin Community in Des Moines, Iowa. She was surrounded by family and friends as she peacefully gained her well deserved wings.

Carol, the daughter of Marge (Wilson) and Malvin Williams, was born on January 21, 1947 in Des Moines, Iowa. She attended Roosevelt High School, Des Moines, graduating in 1965. Carol went on to Drake University and received her Bachelor Degree in ASCP-MT in 1969. At Drake, she was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority. She worked as a medical technologist, first in Chicago, Illinois, then finishing her career at the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver, Colorado. While the research lab was fascinating to her, she particularly enjoyed times with patients, obtaining their blood samples. Carol was a member of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

The mountains were Carol’s happy place, whether skiing, hiking or photographing wild flowers. She loved her front porch time, including a glass of wine with her close neighborhood friends. Zion National Park was very dear to Carol. She also enjoyed yoga, gardening and animals. After retirement, she enjoyed volunteering for the Denver Natural History Museum.

Linda, Pam and Nancy were special BFFs in junior high and high school. This cherished friendship has lasted a life time.

Billy O’Donnell of Louisville, Colorado and Carol had a thirteen year long special friendship. Billy visited Carol numerous times in Des Moines as Carol’s illness progressed. Her eyes would always light up when Billy entered the room. He kept Carol supplied with the special chocolates that she so loved.

Family and friends meant the world to Carol. She was preceded in death by her parents; cousins, Rich Carmichael, Judy Jones and Bob Wilson; aunts and uncles, George, Lois, Elizabeth, Harry, Ella, Alan, Leland and Elmer. Carol is survived by her sister, Sharon “Sheri” Harris of Des Moines; nephew, Tim Harris of Des Moines; niece, Lauri Mazigian (Randy) of Olathe, Kansas; great nephew, Jake Rasmussen; great niece, Jessica Rasmussen; cousins, Jean Wathen, Tom Wilson, Jan Gerlach and Barb Smith; her special friend, Billy O’Donnell and her cat, Gemma.

Carol’s family and friends wish to especially give thanks to Suncrest Hospice and Calvin Community second floor health center staff for their loving care of Carol. They treated her like their own family, showering her with love every day.

Private services will be held at a later time. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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