Carol Izzo Obituary

Carol Izzo
Carol Ann Wendorf Izzo (née Schmidlin), aged 84, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, just one day shy of her 85th birthday. Born on July 10, 1940, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carol's life was a testimony to the power of love, the joy of laughter, and the significance of connection. She navigated the world with a loving heart and a gentle spirit, characteristics that became the hallmark of her existence. Carol's story began alongside her parents, Joseph and Mildred Schmidlin, and her brother Joe Schmidlin. Her early years in Pittsburgh laid the foundation for a life rich in relationships and experiences. In June 1962, Carol married Richard Wendorf, and they embarked on a journey of love and family, blessed with five children: Richard (Deb), Marty, Karen (Ryan Olson), Laura (Bill Epp), and David (Rhonda). The untimely passing of her husband Richard in 1976 left Carol a young widow, but the love they shared continued to resonate through their children and the life they had built together. Years later, Carol's heart found room for love once more when she married Thomas Izzo in 1992. Their union was a source of immense joy and companionship, enduring for 33 years until her passing. Carol's warmth and kindness touched the lives of her whole family, including Shane Izzo (Tanya), her grandchildren Aaron Wendorf (Momoko), Andrew Wendorf, Devann Fattes (Nick), Gianna Izzo, and Lucca Izzo, and her great-grandchildren Jacey and Benjamin Fattes. Her nephew Joseph Schmidlin (Robin) also held a special place in her heart. Carol was a passionate friend and a guiding light within the recovery community, proudly supporting the principles and members of Bill W.'s fellowship for 42 years. Her commitment to service, combined with her infectious sense of humor, made her an invaluable mentor and confidante to many. She was a beacon of strength, compassion, and hope. Her legacy is one of unwavering love, laughter that could fill a room, and a dedication to serving others. Carol's ability to make every person she encountered feel seen and supported is a testament to her generous spirit. She was a pillar of her community, a cherished friend, and an adored matriarch. Carol's life was a beautiful reflection of the things she valued most deeply: family, friendship, and faith in the capacity of individuals to change and grow. Those who had the privilege of knowing her will carry forward her legacy of love and laughter. Her gentle guidance and heartfelt passion for life have left an indelible mark on all who loved her. As we bid farewell to Carol Ann Wendorf Izzo, we celebrate a life lived with passionate devotion to the well-being of others, a life that was truly a gift to many. Her memory will be treasured and her presence deeply missed, yet the impact of her love and the echo of her laughter will continue to resonate for generations to come. In lieu of flowers a donation maybe made in the memory of Carol to St. Jude's Hospital. Services will be held on Monday, July 21 at Justen Funeral Home, 3700 Charles J. Miller Road, McHenry, with visitation from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm and a funeral service to follow. For more information, please call the funeral home at 815-385-2400 or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones can share memories of Carol on her memorial wall.