1975 – 2017
It is with a tremendously heavy heart and through uncontrolled tears we share with you a devastating loss. On March 7th, the world lost a tremendous light that touched so many – Caroline Canfield Parnell, 41, passed away. Caroline is the daughter of shelter Manager Barbara Umlauf, and sister of the late Joseph Parnell, Barb’s son for whom Joe’s Fund was created when he passed away ten years ago. In memory of both Joe and Caroline, the fund will now be known as the “Joe and Caroline Spay/Neuter & Emergency Fund”.
There are not any words that can even begin to express the grief felt over the loss of our friend, Caroline. Adding to the grief is the tremendous heartache we feel for our shelter manager Barb who is suffering the loss of her other child. Barb is a beloved friend, confidant, and “second mom” to many of us involved with the Hillside. Our hearts go out to her, her husband Paul, their entire family and all of Caroline’s beloved friends.
Caroline, like Joe, grew up around the Hillside and absolutely loved animals. Quick with a smile that would light up a room, Caroline was known for her wit and brilliant smile. Here, in Caroline’s obituary, is a small glimpse into what made her so very special to so very many. May she be safe in Joe’s embrace until we meet again.
“Caroline Canfield Parnell
(April 8, 1975 – March 7, 2017)
Caroline Canfield Parnell, 41, of Ashland passed away Tuesday evening March 7th surrounded by family at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville (PA).
She was the daughter of Joseph Parnell and Barbara and Paul Umlauf. She was a graduate of Cardinal Brennan High School and Immaculata University where she was class President for three years. She worked as an IT Recruitment Specialist at ORS Partners.
Caroline had too many gifts to count, however her greatest gift was making people laugh. She was able to brighten any heart even in the darkest of times. She had an infectious smile and huge personality. All the children in her family knew her as “Aunt Coco”. Caroline was extremely proud of her Irish heritage and her family. She spent an inordinate amount of time with family, especially her “Aunties” and cousins. Caroline was terrified of scary movies and yet was one of the bravest people we ever knew. She worked in Manhattan on September 11, an experience that never left her.
Caroline is preceded in death by her brother Joe and grandparents Irene and John Canfield, and Helen Parnell.
She is survived by her parents, aunts and uncles, Nadine and Gary Avenoso and Paula and Thomas Murphy, cousins Natalie Avenoso, John Murphy, and Jeff Murphy, nieces and nephews, Gwyn, Lily, Nolan, Grace, and Cooper, and her beloved cats, Dooties, Joey, Monkee, and Fat Charlie.
One of Caroline’s favorite quotes by Oscar Wilde best describes her: “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”
A Celebration of Life Service will be private and held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Caroline’s name, to Joe and Caroline’s Spay/Neuter Emergency Care Fund at SPCA PO BOX 233 Pottsville, PA 17901”
Online contributions may be made online BY CLICKING HERE.
