Carol Grace Bilhorn, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, at Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, CA, just days after celebrating her 93rd birthday. Born on August 2, 1933, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Carol’s life was a testament to grace, perseverance, and a steadfast devotion to family and faith.

Throughout her remarkable lifetime, Carol’s beautiful spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was known for her warmth and charm, an unwavering presence who exuded grace with every gesture. Carol was a devoted wife, sincerely committed and loving through the 71 extraordinary years she shared with her husband Bill. Their partnership was defined by deep mutual respect, laughter, and enduring love. Her ability to balance Bill’s energy, intelligence, and humor with composure and intuition created a foundation that nurtured not only their marriage but also the closeness of their entire family. Their union was a true love story, remarkable for its strength and the wisdom that she brought to every decision and relationship.

Carol was a supportive and loving mother and grandmother, whose kindness and generosity shaped generations. Her proudest accomplishments by her own account were her children, her grandchildren, and the unbreakable bond that wove the family together. Whether nurturing or encouraging, she was always present, always gentle, leading with a quiet guidance and faith that continues to inspire her loved ones.

Life called Carol to many adventures. She left her nursing studies to begin her life with Bill, embarking on journeys that would take her around the world. She mastered the art of embracing change, whether it was moving her young family to a mining camp in southern Peru with two children under the age of five, traveling across continents for Bill’s career, or uprooting herself time and again to support their dreams. Later, as the accountant for the family’s scuba shop in Redwood City, CA, she was the silent force that kept their shared ventures balanced and thriving.

Carol’s life was one of service and enrichment, both to her family and her community. She loved golfing, fly fishing, boating, traveling, and volunteering; her genuine delight in entertaining was matched only by her skills as a gracious hostess and an excellent cook. Her passion for bridge was legendary among family and friends, and she took great joy in friendly competition at every table.

A sincere follower of Christ, Carol found strength and purpose in her faith, leading a life grounded in kindness, compassion, and gratefulness. Even in her final moments, she was surrounded by her beloved children and grandchildren, peacefully relinquishing her body after a day of joyful celebration. In the gentle closing of her remarkable journey, Carol’s prayer—to join Jesus and her husband in heaven—was tenderly answered.

Carol leaves 3 children - Chris Weber (and her husband, Christopher); Susan Bilhorn; Jeff Bilhorn (and his wife, Lorie). Chris’ children - Stephen (and his wife Mallory); Laura (and her husband Nick); and Daniel. Jeff’s children - Carol Grace; Liam; and Ben. And her great grandson Leo, Stephen’s son. Also her closest niece, Melissa Karrer (and her husband, Chris). She was proceeded in death by her husband William, who died December 2, 2024, as well as her 4 siblings, Winnie Jones, Rachel Malick, Lorraine Schank, Dave Church.

The family invites all who knew and loved Carol to a Celebration of Life service at South Shores Church, 32712 Crown Valley Pkwy, Dana Point, CA 92629, on November 21, 2026.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all whose lives she touched—a legacy of love, generosity, and the extraordinary beauty of a life well lived.