Carol Elaine Minke of Hanover passed away peacefully with family by her side at Chapman House Hospice in Owen Sound on Monday December 1^st, 2025. She was 81.

First born to Melvin and Helen (nee Krigner) Minke, in Hanover July 17^th, 1944.  Still proudly holding onto the original receipt from the hospital her father paid for her birth.  It cost $36.00 and that included a 12 day stay in the hospital for both her and her mother.

Carol attended Scone Public School, Chesley High School and George Brown College in London becoming a licenced hair stylist.  She spent many years in Kitchener working as a hair stylist and when she was unable to practice full time, she transitioned into retail working for Arnold Bros. Warehouse until its closing.  

Carol was a very independent person although never acquiring her driver’s licence. She was an avid bus commuter navigating both city and cross-country schedules. Many trips home to Hanover and Chesley were made to visit and help with aging family members.  It was very upsetting when they discontinued the bus service home. It was like losing one’s licence. A decision was then made to permanently return to Hanover to help care for her aging parents until their passing.   During her years in Hanover, Carol kept busy working for different businesses including Saugeen Carpet Cleaning, the local Laundromat (Milligan’s), office cleaning for Bill Brown’s Income Tax Service and then the Bank of Nova Scotia until her official retirement.   Through her working life she also continued to spend her time assisting and helping the senior community.  Over the years, Carol enjoyed making a difference in the lives of many people living in The Village Retirement Residence where she formed valued friendships.

Carol possessed an artistic flair in all she did.  She had many talents including knitting and beautiful penmanship which won her many awards in the local fall fairs.  Her greatest talent was her cake making and decorating. They were always requested for special occasions and get togethers.   Her cakes were decorated in beautiful colours with fine details down to the handmade buttercream flowers.  They were as delicious to eat as they were beautiful to look at.  She was also noted for sending cards to family and friends for all occasions including birthdays, anniversaries and holidays even including Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day.

And lastly, we must acknowledge Carol’s love of George Strait and Elvis Presley. We feel she would never forgive us if we did not mention this important fact.  She loved the music, and we will forever think of Carol fondly when we hear their music.

We would like to thank everyone at Chapman House for taking such good care of Carol and for also supporting our family during her last weeks.  We are grateful and appreciate this valued service in our area.

She will be greatly missed by her brother John (Cheryl) Minke, and sisters Sandy (Ron) Neeb and Eileen Minke (Wayne).  Nieces Tammy-Jo, Natasha and Tanya and Great Niece Ainsley.

As per Carols wishes, cremation has taken place.  A private family graveside service will be held at the Hanover Cemetery in the spring. Memorial Donations to the Chapman House or charity of your choice would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Condolences may be sent to family at www.mightonfuneralhome.ca 

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Mighton Funeral Home.