Carolyn H. Anderson

Carolyn H. Anderson, of Zion, Illinois passed away March 10, 2026 in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. She was born August 9, 1932 in Coulee, North Dakota. 

Carolyn previously lived in Portland, Oregon, and later in Waukegan and Mundelein, Illinois. She graduated from Cleveland High School in Portland, Oregon and then went on to attend Pacific Lutheran College. After college, she met her beloved husband Jerry. They were married on June 22, 1957 in Portland, Oregon. 

Carolyn worked for Waukegan Public Schools in the data processing department for many years. She was also a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, where she became the assistant music director. She directed various musical groups, including the Sanctuary Choir, Young Peoples Choir, SATB ensemble, men’s choir, ladies choir, and her biggest passion, the handbell choir, which she directed until she was in her 90's.

At Pacific Lutheran College, her most treasured experience was singing and touring with the Choir of the West. Later in life, she and Jerry tremendously enjoyed traveling to Germany and other European countries, including Norway. They also visited many US sites and National Parks as well as Machu Picchu, which was their trip of a lifetime. Her favorite pastime was spending time with family, especially attending her grandchildren's sports and musical activities.

 She is survived by her children, Karen (Kurt) Hull, Erik Anderson, and Kristin Anderson; grandchildren, Michael Lopez, Kalina Hull, and Kristi Hull; brother, Larry Reierson; nieces, Kathleen Nenninger and Christine Miller; and nephews, David, Philip, and Tim Reierson. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald J. (Jerry) Anderson; brothers, Ramon Reierson and Dale Reierson; and parents, Inga and Fred Reierson. 

A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 824 N Lewis Avenue, Waukegan, Illinois 60085.

In lieu flowers donations may be sent to St. Paul's Lutheran Church music fund.