Obituary of Carole Ann Mitchell-Gilligan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Carole Ann. With her family by her side and in the arms of her husband, she was released from pain into the sheltering arms of Jesus on Friday, September 20, 2013, after an eight year battle with systemic hemangiomatosis. Carole leaves behind the love of her life and stoic helpmate and caregiver, husband Charlie Gilligan. She leaves four beautiful children Jesse, Hannah, Shannon and, step son Justin, who were her reasons for fighting so hard, and is reunited with her infant son Bobby (1987). She leaves to grieve, her parents Robert and Sharron Upper, and sisters Sheryl (Paul) Lepp, and Lynn (Clint) Sears. Carole was a supportive aunt to nephew and nieces Shaelyn, Taryn (Nathan), Erik and Katie and much loved sister-in-law and aunt to the whole Gilligan clan who will miss her dearly. Carole was an EA with the District School Board of Niagara, a position she held close to her heart. She was an avid gardener and phenomenal cook. She was a creative, hard working, self-sacrificing soul that lived the words “Love thy neighbour as thyself” every day of her life. The world was a better place having had her in it. Her family thanks the many friends and organizations that have supported them and lent their expertise to Carole’s fight. Special thanks to Dr. Buetow, her CCAC care nurses and the nurses at SCGH for their care….and to her furry friend Max who spent countless hours keeping her company. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines on Tuesday, September 24th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A celebration of Carole Ann's life will be held on Wednesday, September 25th at 10:30 a.m. at Niagara United Mennonite Church, 1775 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Memorial donations to the Canadian Paraplegic Association, March of Dimes, or Red Cross would be appreciated by the family.