Carolyn Irene Merrimac – Hansen-Spear

Carolyn Irene Merrimac, age 87, formerly of Champaign, IL, died on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 6:57 p.m. in her home in Quincy.

Carolyn was born on July 2, 1937 in Hume, IL, a daughter of Wayne and Grace Knicley Dornblaser. She married George L. Merrimac on August 5, 1956 in Hume, IL. He preceded her in death on December 18, 1991.

Carolyn was a 1955 graduate of Young America High School in Metcalf, IL, and she attended Eastern Illinois University. She was also a member of First United Methodist Church of Champaign, IL, and she served as the president of the Old Farm Lakes Homeowner’s Association for 14 years.

Carolyn was an avid sports fanatic, and she was an invaluable source of sports knowledge for her grandchildren. Carolyn was the Google of sports before Google existed. Her favorite teams were the Fighting Illini, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Green Bay Packers.

Survivors include two children: Marianne (John) Schmitt of Quincy and Mike (Cindy) Merrimac of Phoenix, AZ; six grandchildren: Graceann (Andrew) DeVlieger of Richardson, TX; Andy (Jen) Schmitt of Savoy, IL; Michael Schmitt of Ballwin, MO; Jonathan “Jonny” Schmitt of Dallas, TX; Lauren (Matthew) Borgeson of Phoenix, AZ; and Megan Franks of Tempe, AZ; ten great-grandchildren: Allison, Ava, Abigail, and Evan DeVlieger; Emersyn, Josey, Finley, and Peter Schmitt; and Ryder and Cade Borgeson; a brother, Dale (Deb) Dornblaser of Springfield, IL; a sister, Mary Ann (Roy) Nickel of Fountain Hills, AZ; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents.

Carolyn’s family wishes to express their gratitude to Brooke Cobb and BC Caregivers for the kindness and compassion they showed in caring for her the past few years.

Visitation: 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at Hansen-Spear Funeral Home.

Graveside Service: 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Young America Cemetery in Hume, IL, with Rev. Julia Lungren officiating. Burial will follow.

Memorials: Blessing Foundation for Hospice

www.hansenspear.com

Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.