Carol Jean Paige

November 26, 1945 - February 23, 2019

Beloved Wife, Mother, Sister and Friend, Carol Jean Malatek was born November 26th 1945 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa at St. Luke’s Methodist Hospital to George and Gladys Malatek. Carol passed away at home in Lecoma, Missouri on February 23rd 2019 in the arms of loving family while under hospice care. Preceding Carol in death are her parents George and Gladys, brother Jeffery and brother Vernon. Carol graduated valedictorian from Solon High School in 1964. Carol was active in the school’s Band, Thespian Club, Student Council, Chorus, Newspaper, Variety Shows, FFA and served as Editor of the school’s yearbook. Carol went into the work force immediately following her graduation from high school; she was unable to attend college due to financial reasons. Carol and Bruce met while working at a factory in Cedar Rapids. Their courtship was short as they knew they were meant to be together. On December 18th 1965, Carol and Bruce married in Cedar Rapids. At the time of her death, Carol and Bruce were married 53 years. Carol was a devoted mother and wife. Carol encouraged and inspired each of her four children to pursue higher education. She went to great lengths to support her children in their academic pursuits. In 2007, Carol retired to provide full time care for Bruce after he became disabled. Carol had a keen wit and intelligence. She had a great sense of humor and a compassionate heart. Her innate empathy and wise counsel made her a source of comfort to many during the course of her life. She had uncommon strength of character and courage. Carol loved reading, music (she had a remarkable memory for lyrics), documentaries, public television, crossword puzzles, gardening, coffee, cooking and cats. Carol is survived by her husband Bruce (Lecoma, MO); four children: Robert Paige (Lecoma, MO), Diane Paige (Oneonta, NY), Renee Hartsook (Ventura, CA) and Elizabeth Reynolds (Sacramento, CA); daughter-in-law Maricel Paige (Lecoma, MO) and son-in-law Curtis Reynolds (Sacramento, CA); and two step-grandchildren: Kurtis and Mya Reynolds (Sacramento, CA). Carol is also survived by one sister Catherine Petry (Lakewood, CO) and three brothers; Paul Malatek (Ely, IA), David Malatek (Moline, IL) and Jim Malatek (Cedar Rapids, IA). At the time of her passing, Carol was a member of Anutt United Methodist Church. She will be missed by her loving and close church family as well as by many friends and acquaintances in the Rolla-Salem area. A memorial service for Carol will be held on Saturday, March 9th at 10:00am. The memorial will be held at James & Gahr Mortuary located at 1651 MO-72, Rolla, MO. The family requests that donations in lieu of flowers be sent to Phelps Regional Homecare’s Hospice Program (575 A Blues Lake Pkwy, Rolla, MO 65401). Memorials to Phelps County Hospice are suggested and greatly appreciated you can go this this link, or cards are available at all James & Gahr Locations. https://giving.pcrmc.com/support-us/donate/