Caroline Helen Koettker

lifelong friends and memories.  Caroline was the chair last month of Mom’s Weekend and recently represented her sorority in the Miss K-State competition.  Caroline loved children and was studying to get her degree in Elementary Education. She worked in her spare time at Bluemont Elementary School. 

 Caroline was diagnosed her senior year of High School with Type 1 diabetes.  Once diagnosed there were multiple hospital stays and visits, and the stressful process of learning to moderate her blood sugar levels through both diet and injections.  Throughout this process, Caroline maintained grace, dignity, and patience. She never used her condition as an excuse, and if anything used her diagnosis as an impetus to push herself harder by actively becoming involved as an Ambassador for the JDRF. 

Caroline had the biggest heart and the most beautiful smile. She loved dancing, cheering, going to the Lake and Beach vacations with her family, making Tik Tok videos with her cousins, spending time with friends, family and traveling abroad.  Caroline loved cheering on her Wildcats (EMAW).  Everyone that had the privilege of meeting Caroline came away with being blessed by her giving spirit and kind soul.  In her short life Caroline accomplished so much and made an impression on every person she met. She made many lasting memories and loved to laugh and have fun with her friends. Caroline put others first and was an amazing big sister to Grace.  

Caroline will be deeply missed by her parents, Marilyn and Chris and sister Grace.  Grandparents, Mike and Mayo Redpath and Judie Koettker.   Aunts and Uncles:  Todd Redpath, Jill and William Noland, Pam and Mike Metzger, Eric and Kris Koettker, Katie and Jay Albin, Becky and Matt Gifford.   Cousins:  Trevor and Chase Redpath, Madison and Andrew Hudson (Marilyn), Bryan, Austin and Madeline Noland, Elizabeth and Ryne St. Marie (Charlotte) Michael and Rachel Metzger, Emily and Matthew Metzger,  Claire, Tommy and Andrew Koettker, JJ, Sam, and Annie Albin, Greta and Edith Gifford.  Preceded in death by her grandfather, Rick Koettker and great grandparents, Harry and Arlene Koettker. 

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to JDRF - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation