Carol S. Maier

Carol passed from this troubled world on May 1, 2020. She left behind two sons, Doug Sigel in Austin and Gene Sigel (Heather) in Geneva; her sister, Susan Funk (Jerry) in Erie; cousins, nieces, grandchildren, in-laws and Pittsburgh-based step-siblings, Rob, Glee Ann, Joyce and Judy; plus her husband, Fred at home; as well as many friends, Randolph neighbors, colleagues and former students. Born on a summer day in 1943 to Fred and Esther (Kastner) Smith, Carol was an uncommon mix of curiosity, determination and humility. She said she had never met a person that did not have some likeable aspect. That included a University Dean who, decades ago, warned her that her work in literary translation would compromise her academic career. Never mind, she thought. Those decades later, Carol retired from Kent State after 35 years of writing and teaching, a Professor Emerita of Spanish and Translation Studies. The retirement projects which Carol had planned and prepared for were instead subject to the health issues that be-deviled her to the end. Her last days were graced by Cheryl, an in-home Absolute Hospice nurse. The interment of her ashes will occur at The Wilderness Center’s Foxfield Preserve in Wilmot. On a list – supposing one existed – just below Carol’s love of literature and poetry one would have found music and walking. A contribution to the Kent State Blossom Music Program or the Portage Park’s Trails Program will help others to share her loves. (Hopkins Lawver, AKRON, 330-733-6271) www.hopkinslawver.com