Caroline Mary Skarbek

Caroline Mary Skarbek, our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother went home to our Lord on Monday, January 13, 2025, at Bay Valley House Assisted Living, at the age of 96. Born on December 5, 1928, in Campbell, Ohio, Caroline was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Smaryn) Gibala. Her life was a testament to the power of positivity and the strength of family bonds.
Caroline's journey through life was marked by her loving dedication to her family and her unwavering faith. She is survived by a legacy of love, including her five children and their spouses: Laura (Ken) Ruff of Bay City, Kerry Skarbek of Pinconning, Polly (Terry) Powers of Pinconning, Denise (John) Sydenstricker of Oscoda, and Felicia (Ed) Whitney of East Tawas. Her joy was multiplied through her 12 grandchildren: Kevin Ruff, Kaysey (James) Brabaw, John Skarbek, Anna Skarbek, Evan (Holly) Skarbek, Owen Skarbek, Robert Powers, Ernie Powers, Wade (Breanna) Sydenstricker, Emily Sydenstricker, Sean Polaski, and David Polaski. The family circle widened with the addition of nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-granddaughters, all of whom brought immense happiness into Caroline's life. The family tree extended its branches to include her sister-in-law, Doris Skarbek, and brother-in-law, Nicholas Milatos, who will remember her with fondness.
Caroline was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Skarbek, who passed away on March 18, 2002, and her dear parents, 7 siblings and their spouses, Josephine Gibala, Catherine (Stanley) Rash, Frank (Irene) Gibala, Bernice (Michael) Zuraw, John (Mildred) Gibala and Paul (Lucy) Gibala, Clara Milatos. Caroline's professional life was marked by her 27-year tenure at United Technology in Bay City, where she built not only a career but also lasting friendships. Her commitment to her community was evident through her lifetime membership at St. Agnes Church until its closure, then became a member of Holy Trinity Parish. Caroline's faith was further expressed through her devoted involvement with the Rosary Society and the Ladies Auxiliary, where she served with grace and dedication. Her interests reflected her love for life and people. Caroline found joy in family gatherings, where she was often the heart and soul of the festivities. She relished the excitement of casino trips and the lively steps of polka dancing with friends. Yet, above all, it was her passion for her family and her numerous grandchildren that truly defined her. Caroline's presence at family events was not just expected but eagerly anticipated, as she was the glue that held the generations together.
Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11 am from the Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Matthew Federico presiding with burial in St. Agnes Cemetery. Friends may visit the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home on Friday, from 2 till 8 pm. On Saturday, Caroline will lie in state at the church from 10 am until the time of mass. The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the staff at Bay Valley House Assisted Living and the Compassus Hospice team for the compassionate care given to Caroline and her family. A special thank you to her niece Helen Rice who dedicated her time and love.