Carol Burke DeRango

Surrounded by her loving husband and closest friends, Carol Burke DeRango, 68, passed away on May 12, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Carol had a magnetic presence and lived life with purpose, making an impact on those in her professional and personal life. With a twinkle in her blue eyes, a bright smile, and sharp wit, the way she captivated a room was unparalleled. Her words held weight, when Carol spoke, you listened. And you were better for it. A true master of conversation and a compassionate listener, Carol had a knack for lifting those in her path and helping them discover the best versions of themselves. In one-on-one settings, Carol made you feel as if you were the most important person in the world. She understood the way you make someone feel is more important than what you say. Her selflessness, compassion, generosity, and charm has left a profound and enduring mark on all fortunate enough to know her.
Born February 23, 1956, to William and Doris Burke (Shivers), Carol grew up in Kensington, Maryland.
She later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Shepherd University and went on to build a successful and admirable career as a highly skilled sales professional and leader.
Carol dedicated more than 40 years of her career employed for various companies including Learning International and most recently Hollister where she spent 14 years as a Senior Manager of Sales Excellence.
Carol's career led her to finding the love of her life, husband John Frank DeRango in Chicago, Illinois. After more than 25 years of living in the Midwest, the two retired and relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina. Carol enjoyed reading fiction, theater (especially musicals), travelling, boating, long walks, board games, the beach, napping in her husband's hammock, and entertaining friends and family.
In addition to her husband John, Carol is survived by her brother Larry (Linda) Burke, father-in-law Eugene DeRango, sister-in-law Maria (Ralph) Lippiello, nephew Ryan (Lindsay) Burke, nieces Tara (Ricky Lewis) Burke, Arianna and Gia Lippiello, grandnieces, and goddaughters.
She was preceded in death by her parents William and Doris, and mother-in-law Maria Carmela DeRango.
Carol was a woman of faith. She deeply loved her family and friends. Carol had a passion for all animals, especially her cat, Buddy.
Her strong will and enthusiasm for life led to a courageous battle with cancer. Even in her most trying days she lived selflessly and loved deeply.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday May 29 from 3-8pm at Smith-Corcoran Glenview Funeral Home, 1104 Waukegan Rd, Glenview, IL 60025. Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help on May 30th at 10:00am located at 1775 Grove Street, Glenview, IL 60025, followed by a Celebration of Life at Chicago Botanical Gardens located at 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe IL 60022. A second Celebration of Life will be held in Charlotte, NC on June 22nd, 2024, at 5pm at The Regency of Palisades club house.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Humane Society, Protect Animals | Give a Gift - The Humane Society of the United States or
Cancer Research Institute Cancer Research Institute | Advancing Immunotherapy Research