Carolyn Mae Penk, 78 of Thorp, was called home to God, suddenly and unexpectedly on August 23, 2024 surrounded by her family.
She was born on May 21, 1946 to the late Anton and Clara (Ziemba) Rudawski. Carolyn graduated from Stanley-Boyd High class of 1964 and went on to study nursing St. Joseph’s Tech graduating in 1969. She started her career at the Marshfield Hospital for 2 years, Victory Memorial Hospital for 2 years then worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Chippewa Falls where she became the Director of Nursing until her retirement.
She married Jerome Penk on February 21, 1970 and together had two sons: Eric and Scott. Later being blessed with four grandchildren who she adored.
Carolyn had a strong faith in God. She was known for her kind and caring soul which was evident in the care she gave her patients and how she led her nursing staff. She was always willing to lend a hand or a hand out to anyone in need.
She will remain in the hearts of her children, Eric (Michelle) Penk of Prescott and Scott Penk of Thorp, her four grandchildren, Kallie (Tristen), Kelsey (Abe), Cole and Kira (Jaydon), her siblings, Mary Ann Urban, Peter (Roxy) Rudawski, Marty (Cookie) Rudawski, Paul (Jennie) Rudawski, Antonette (Jeff) Burkman and Edward Rudawski and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jerry, and her brother John.
A memorial mass will be held at 11AM on Friday, August 30th at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church-Lublin with Father Joseph Stefancin officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Parish Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until time of service at the Church. Plombon Funeral Service assisted the family with the arrangements.