Carole Olsen Drecksel

Carole Jane Walker Olsen Drecksel passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 9^th. She is now at peace and reunited with loved ones, especially her beloved mother and brother, who preceded her in death. Carole was a remarkable individual who influenced countless lives. She was known for her roles as an exceptional grandmother, committed teacher and for her impeccable style as a true fashionista. She loved celebrating holidays, birthdays, people, and just being alive. Every year, family and friends looked forward to gathering for her famed Christmas Eve party, and every summer, her grandchildren looked forward to their “Special Days” with MeeMa.

Carole thoughtfully wrote the following obituary for herself several years before her passing:

“Carole was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, “MeeMa”, loyal friend, and devoted teacher. She was born to Alva Eldredge Walker and Betty Louise Godbe. She had a younger brother, Richard Gary Walker, who died of leukemia at age 27. Carole graduated from Highland High School, and earned a BS In Elementary Education from the University of Utah. She married Michael Earl Olsen in 1968 (he died in 1981). They had two brilliant and wonderful children: Christian Michael Olsen and Adrienne Michelle Olsen. Carole’s children were her Iife substance.

Carole fell in love with Calvin O. Drecksel In 1983; they married after seven months of “dating.” Carole and Cal took many amazing voyages and vacations to exotic places around the globe. Those years of traveling opened Carole’s eyes to the true wonders of the world and of life’s gifts.

Carole loved her husband, and adored her children, her daughter- in-law, her son-in-law, her grandchildren, her Mother and Father, her students, and her precious friends.

She was a dedicated teacher spending many additional hours to add to her students’ educational experiences, and using her own money to enhance their learning.

Carole loved the color white, Creamies, daisies, romantic and funny movies, shoes, her cat “Gizmo”, playing Gin rummy, traveling, good conversations, reading and fashion. She listened to all kinds of music from RAP to classical, and turned the volume up high when she sang in the car.

Her life took on a new meaning upon the arrival of her remarkable and gifted grandchildren: Nicholas, Annabelle and Jonathan (Christian and Ella Olsen), and Quinn and Madilyn (Adrienne and Dave Murray). She thought these children were perfect in every way, and were being raised by equally perfect parents. She felt extremely blessed.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren.

In lieu of a funeral, she would like a celebration of her very rich and zany life. Lots of fun, good discussions, lots of laughter, lots of friends, lots of love and some crazy loud music.

Here is a poem she felt said it all (Author is unknown):

Don’t cry at my grave ’cause I won’t be there.

I’ll be in the breeze that ruffles your hair.

I’ll be in the sunshine, and I’ll be in the snow.

I’ll be in the places where we used to go.

I’ll be in your laughter and in the funny things.

I’ll be in your shadow and there in your dreams.

I’ll be in your greetings but not your goodbyes.

I’ll be in the reflection of your loving eyes.

I’ll always be with you, and I’ll always care.

So don’t cry at my graveside ’cause I won’t be there.”

In keeping with her wishes, a Celebration of Carole’s Life will be on Thursday, October 24^th from 6-8pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use parking and entrance located on the north side of the building. All who knew her are welcome to join in sharing memories, laughter, and love.

In memory of Carole, you may choose to send flowers or make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

If you would like to share a favorite story or memory of Carole, please share it here or email it to CaroleDreckselMemories@gmail.com whenever she comes to mind. Her family would love to hear how she impacted your life.