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Carol Lehleitner Finley Obituary
December 31, 1951 - December 11, 2021
Lenexa, Kansas - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Sue Lehleitner Finley, age 69, of Lenexa, Kansas on December 11, 2021. Carol was born in St Louis, Missouri to the late Nancy and Robert Lehleitner. She graduated from Center High School in 1970 and went on to study Physical Education at the University of Missouri at Kansas City, where she was the mascot, the 'Roo. Carol eventually earned dual Master's degrees in Special Education and School Administration and began her 40+ year career as a special education teacher. Carol dedicated her life to the support and development of disabled and vulnerable children up until the final months of her life. She believed whole-heartedly in the potential of each of her students, celebrating each victory and mourning each setback as though they were her own. Carol lived and worked throughout the Midwest and Northwest, including remote locations in Idaho and Alaska, before ultimately returning to the Kansas City area.
Her passion for children and her indelible spirit made for someone who was quick to laugh, earnest in love, and fierce in the defense of others. She will be remembered as an unwavering woman of faith, a fiercely loyal friend, an endlessly devoted spouse, and undeniably the best mother around. She is survived by her husband David Finley, son Peter Hall, daughter Carrie Moon, step-sons Zach and David Finley, grandchildren Aaron, Ethan, Owen, Alex, Elaina, and Elliot, her brothers Bob and Bill Lehleitner, her many nieces and nephews, and the countless students, parents, and fellow teachers whose lives she touched.
Never one for lengthy goodbyes, as Carol would often say, 'time and tide wait for no man.'
We'll miss you, Ma.
Services will be held at Colonial Presbyterian Church on January 15th, 2022 at 9 am and will be open to family and close friends only.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Carol Lehleitner Finley
Sponsored by Kansas City Star.
5 Entries
Anne Swanson Jeffries
January 19, 2022
Even though Carol and I had not been in touch for many years, I am sad to hear of her passing. I always admired her steadfast faith, sense of humor and positive attitude. I looked forward to seeing her at (Colonial Presbyterian) Sunday School and church every week. I know she will be greatly missed!
Janet Larkins Osalkowski
January 6, 2022
We share so many memories, adventures, stories and secrets. My best friend since 7th grade. Always there for each other. I miss you.....see you later.
Colleen Aagesen
December 30, 2021
I met Carol in 1981, shortly before we had children of the same ages. My Kathryn, her Pete; my Carl her Carrie. She was my children's godmother and lovingly took care of them from time to time. More than anyone, I felt comfortable leaving my babies with Carol. She was a trained infant specialist and would give my children an actual pre-school experience each time they were with her. Years later when I handed my newborn Eric to her, she noticed how his eyes darted from her to me with a knowing look. (We both had short, dark hair at the time and could have passed for sisters.) "Look at how his eyes go back and forth between us! He's a smart one!" she laughed, which was all the reassurance I needed that my late- in-life baby was just fine. I loved Carol's laughter, her strength of spirit, her encouragement. As we approach the end of this year, I recall the many New Year's Eve we spent together, which was a double celebration of her birthday and the upcoming year. I am so blessed to have been her friend.
Sallie Everson Collins
December 26, 2021
Oh My! One of my best high school friends. So many hours walking between our houses when we were 16-17 yrs old. I still love her. Crying and rejoicing with the family as only those who follow JESUS can. Sending love IN HIM.
Hilda Sharda Yeaton
December 26, 2021
Carol was a dear friend of mine in high school, at UMKC and especially in our youth group at Colonial Presbyterian. She was a great influence on me spiritually. I loved her courage, her humor, and her insight.
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Reflections Memorial Services, LLC1624 Westport Rd. Suite A, Kansas City, MO 64111
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