Carol Jean Bares, known lovingly to all as Carol, was born on March 1, 1973, in Zeeland, Michigan, and departed this life on August 3, 2026, in Dorr, Michigan, after a long period of declining health. She was a woman of Christian faith, and in her days among us she walked with a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a steadfast love that touched all who knew her. Though death hath closed her earthly chapter, the memory of her kindness shall remain as a bright and lasting lamp.

Carol was, in truth, a soul of rare sweetness and strength. Loving in her ways, generous in her giving, and adventurous in her spirit, she met life with courage and grace. Those who knew her found in her a companion of warmth and honesty, one whose presence could soften sorrow and make ordinary hours seem rich with meaning. She carried herself with a quiet nobility, not seeking praise, yet often deserving it, for her deeds were marked by care and her words by tenderness.

Above all earthly joys, Carol cherished her family. She loved her husband, Kurt Bares, with a devotion that was steady and true, and she treasured her sons, Britton and Andrew, with a mother’s boundless affection. Her heart found its fullest measure of joy in the company of those she held dear, especially her grandson, Benjamin, who brought light and laughter into her days.

Carol was also deeply beloved by her parents, Mike and Pat Lowe, whose lives were joined to hers by a bond of enduring love and memory. She shared a close and meaningful relationship with her mother‑in‑law, Sandy, whose support and presence were a comfort throughout Carol’s long journey. Many aunts and uncles stood beside Carol and Kurt during this difficult transition, offering strength, kindness, and unwavering support.

Carol cherished the friendships that sustained her, including her close bond with her neighbor Margie and the steadfast support of Monica, who remained a source of comfort to both Carol and Kurt. She held deep affection for the many friends who touched her life over the years. The family would also like to acknowledge Ann, whose kindness and homemade cakes brought Carol joy and comfort in her final days.

The family is deeply grateful to the hospice nurses and staff who cared for Carol with tenderness and dignity, offering support and comfort during her long journey. Chaplain Greg, Jenna, Joy and all the staff, their kindness will never be forgotten.

Music was another great love of Carol’s life, and it remained with her as a faithful companion through the seasons of her journey. She had a lifelong love of music, and playing guitar was one of her happiest outlets — a place where she could relax, create, and feel at peace. In those moments, her spirit seemed to sing with gentle clarity, as though the strings themselves carried both her joys and her sorrows. Music was not merely a pastime to her, but a refuge and a gift, a sacred space where her heart could breathe.

Her adventurous nature shone not only in the places she went, but in the manner in which she met the world. She embraced new paths, welcomed experience, and found beauty in the unfolding of life. Even in times of trial, she remained a woman of quiet courage, bearing her burdens with dignity and grace. Her generosity appeared not only in grand gestures, but in the small and faithful acts by which she uplifted others — a kind word, a listening ear, a loving presence. These were among the treasures she bestowed.

Though her earthly journey has ended, those who loved her may take solace in the promise that death is not the final word, and that the love she gave continues beyond the veil of mortal life. Her days were not measured only by years, but by the depth of her devotion, the sincerity of her care, and the beauty of her spirit.

She leaves behind a legacy woven of love, music, faith, and family. Her memory shall abide in the hearts of Kurt, Britton, Andrew, Mike, Pat, and all who were blessed to know her. Let it be said of Carol that she lived with tenderness, gave with gladness, and loved without reserve. Though the world is dimmer for her passing, heaven is made brighter by her arrival, and her name shall be spoken with honor, gratitude, and enduring affection.