Carol A. Ganske, born on November 18, 1944, in Chicago, IL, peacefully departed this world on January 12, 2024. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of gentleness, love, humility, and a devotion to God.

Raised in Chicago, Carol attended Barrington High School, where she began her journey of a lifelong love of animals and building connections. She embraced family life through two marriages that brought her joy and fulfillment. Her first marriage was to John Sehnert II, with whom she shared the joy of raising three children: Johnny, Katie, and Jenny. Carol found love again with Raymond Ganske, and together they welcomed three more children into their lives: Michael, Emma, and Timmy. Carol spent the next 42 years with the love of her life, Ray.

Carol was a woman of many talents and passions. She found solace and joy in the art of quilting and sewing, creating beautiful pieces that reflected her creativity and love. Her green thumb was evident in her flourishing garden, where she nurtured pumpkins, zucchini, and tomatoes. As an avid member of the STL Collie Club, Carol dedicated herself to breeding and showing Collies, finding companionship and purpose in her love for animals. Throughout her life, horses also held a special place in her heart.

A devoted homemaker, Carol dedicated her life to children, not only to her own but also to those she cared for as a babysitter in her home. Her nurturing spirit touched the lives of many.

Carol cherished a simple life and dreamed of living on a farm, finding joy in the old-fashioned and classic themes of lifestyle and television shows. She and Ray lived in Hanover Park, IL, for two years before settling into the rural Saint Louis area, a move she embraced with enthusiasm helping fulfill her dream.

Celebrating holidays and birthdays brought immense joy to Carol, particularly Christmas. She had a special love for the traditions of decorating tinsel trees and stringing popcorn, creating memories that will be cherished by those who knew her. Known for her positivity, Carol was a woman of few words but abundant smiles. Her unwavering faith in God carried her through both good and challenging times. She found solace in Lutheran beliefs, having explored different churches until she found her spiritual home.

Carol is survived by her loving spouse, Raymond Ganske, and her six children: John Sehnert (Barbie), Katie Wolfe, Jennifer Hejlek (Mike), Michael Ganske (Tabitha), Emma Mathews (Erik), and Timothy Ganske and grandchildren Garrett Wolfe, Jake Wolfe, Allie Wolfe, Lily Sehnert, Jack Hejlek, Bentley Hejlek, Mason Mathews, Gavin Ganske, Sarah Mathews, and Gwynevere Ganske. She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Dorothy Pearson, and her brother, Richard Pearson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Holy Cross Lutheran Church Comfort Dog Ministry, a place that held special significance in Carol's heart.  https://secure.myvanco.com/YQ3X/campaign/C-13MNZ

Visitation will be held at Herr Funeral Home on Thursday, January 18th from 4-8 pm. The funeral service will take place on Friday, January 19 th at 11 am at Holy Cross Lutheran School, followed by burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 1:45pm. As we bid farewell to Carol, let us remember the warmth, love, and positivity she brought to our lives. May her soul rest in eternal peace.