Carol A. Chileen

In loving memory of Carol Anne Chileen, 67, of Rochester, who passed away Nov. 8, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Carol shared 42 years of life with her loving and devoted husband, Ron Chileen. The two were like two sides of the same coin, each complementing one another's talents, abilities, and dreams for the wonderful life they built together.

An avid gardener and lover of nature, Carol was affectionately known as the "hosta whisperer" as she could revive even the plants others believed were beyond help.

Carol's impact extended well beyond her plants and garden. She worked for the Aubbeenaubbee Branch of the Fulton County Public Library for 32 years, during many of which she served as the branch manager. Just as she tended her plants, Carol served multiple generations of families through her work at the library and later as Aubbeenaubee Township Trustee and well test coordinator for Fulton County.

Above all, Carol's passion was for family. The cherished mother to sons Anthony Eisemann of McHenry, Ill., and John (Joslyn) Eisemann of Plymouth, she served as a 4-H Leader when her sons were members and for several years afterward. Carol's smile was never brighter than when she was with her beloved grandchildren, Marion (Anthony) and Rylee and Reed (John).

Carol and her sisters, Patricia (Surber) Tolliver, Tonya Wise, and Erika Wise were all life members of the [Ladies] Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars. She committed time and energy to honoring veterans past, present and future. A 50-year member of the [Ladies] Auxiliary to Post 6919 in Culver, Carol spent over 30 years serving in the kitchen on Friday nights.

Carol was preceded in death by her brothers, William H. Surber (U.S. Marine Corps) and John D. Surber (U.S. Navy). Carol's loving parents Roger B. Wise (U.S. Army) and Mary Lou Wise (Past Indiana State President of the Ladies Auxiliary) also preceded her in death.

Her dedication to both family and community left an indelible mark. She will be remembered for her strength, kindness and the love she shared with those fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in peace.

The family will plan a homegoing ceremony and burial at a later date. To honor Carol, the family invites you to make a donation in her memory to Riley's Children's Hospital.

Condolences may be sent via the obituary page at www.odomfuneralhome.net.

The Odom Funeral Home, Culver, is honored to be caring for the family.