Carol Baumhauer

Carol (Lenzi) Baumhauer of Bucks County, Pa., formerly of Butler, passed away Dec. 8, 2012.

In spite of limitless courage and strength, it became clear that Carol would not win her six-year fight with leukemia. She decided she had fought enough. Joe, Carol's husband of 41 years, was with her, as well as her sister and stem cell donor, Linda Connell, and her friends and medical advocates, Judie and David Much. Carol asked for a pen and paper and wrote expressions of her love. Her last communication was “love for all forever.”

Carol grew up in Butler, the daughter of the late Bruno Lenzi and Bruna (Nini) Lenzi. An avid volleyball and tennis player, she lamented that Title 9 came too late for her generation. Carol was a 1963 graduate of Butler High School and graduated from Indiana (Pa.) University where she was a member and officer of Alpha Xi Delta sorority.

After graduation, Carol taught at Central Bucks High School West for 23 years, from 1967 to 1988. During her tenure at Central Bucks, Carol's accomplishments were numerous, including serving as chairperson of the business department, strengthening and expanding the accounting program and coaching swimming and lacrosse. She served as a Middle States evaluator.

Carol was a passenger in a car accident in 1969 that almost took her life. After a month in the hospital and a month recuperating at home, she returned to finish teaching the school year.

With a heightened appreciation for life, Carol started a lifelong love affair with the American West. Carol headed out on a six-week cross country adventure with two close friends. In 1973, Carol introduced Joe to the West. Annual camping trips to the West were the result, including a yearlong trip from August 1977 to August 1978. Carol became an avid supporter of our national parks, often speaking about their spiritual qualities.

In March 1979, Carol and Joe established Baumhauer's Kitchen-Bath Design Center in Ottsville, Pa., doing custom kitchen and bath remodeling. Carol found the business rewarding. Having so many clients turn into close friends was her biggest reward. Carol officially was the chief financial officer and marketing director but she was involved in every aspect of the business. Her holiday open houses were legendary.

Carol was passionate about woman's rights. She committed countless hours and resources to equality. Instead of complaining about discrimination, she worked tirelessly to change things. Carol served as the president of the Democratic Woman's Forum, a group that mentors and guides women who want to serve in government. Under her tenure, a “campaign school” was created to educate women who wanted to run for public office.

Carol was a member of Soroptomist International of Bucks County for 27 years. This volunteer organization works to improve the lives of women and girls. She served as club president, chaired numerous committees and was district chair of the Woman's Opportunity Award (WOA) of Soroptomist International of the Americas.

Carol was very active in the civic affairs of her community, serving as auditor for Nockamixon Township from 1989 to 1995, treasurer of the 143rd Legislative District and member of Nockamixon Democratic Committees. She also was very active in numerous political campaigns.

Carol is survived by A. Joseph, her husband of 41 years; her sister, Linda (Lenzi) Connell (wife of John Connell) of Indiana, Pa.; her nephew, Brian Connell, his wife, Amy and twins Zack and Nick; numerous cousins; and hundreds of friends.

BAUMHAUER — A memorial service for Carol Lenzi Baumhauer, who passed away Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, will be held in the spring, Carol’s favorite time of year.Memorial contributions can be made to the Carol Baumhauer Memorial Fund 8074895213, c/o Wells Fargo Bank, P.O. Box 190, Plumsteadville Pa. 18949. The fund will continue to support and advocate for young women and our national parks.Shelly Funeral Home, Plumsteadville, is entrusted with the arrangements. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.shellyfuneralhomes.com.