Carol Ann (Dudek) DeHaven

Carol Ann (Dudek) DeHaven, age 78, of Warsaw, Indiana, passed away peacefully at 10:25 p.m. on December 9, 2025, at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart, Indiana.

Born on December 29, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Carol was the daughter of the late Edward Louis Dudek and Sally Ciesielski. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Catherine (Dudek) Redmond, who passed away in 2018, and by her husband, Christian David DeHaven, whom she married in 1987 and cherished for more than three decades.

Carol treasured her many years working for Toyota, finding deep pride and joy in her career and the lasting friendships she built there. She retired in 2005 with a profound sense of accomplishment. A passionate traveler, she often reminisced about her time in Japan and her adventures in Mexico, sharing stories that reflected her curiosity, humor, and appreciation for the world.

A true Chicagoan at heart—spirited, direct, and resilient—Carol nonetheless fell in love with California’s coastline and with Chris, her great companion and partner in life. Their years together in Redondo Beach left an indelible imprint on her heart. Their home was always marked by the steady presence of beloved dogs, especially their golden retriever “fur babies” they adored - Moses, Molly, Ernie, and Zoe. Carol’s final years were brightened by the companionship of her remaining, loyal golden, Zoe, and her life-long best friend, Grace “Z” Zumpano.

Carol was an avid reader who found joy in discussing books with friends. She drew strength and community from her local church life, both Warsaw Community Church and most recently Community Grace while embracing a peaceful retirement filled with reading, travel memories, connection to her family, and devotion to her pets. She was also an enthusiastic football fan who cheered passionately for the New England Patriots and the Buffalo Bills—especially enamored with quarterbacks Tom Brady and Josh Allen.

She is survived by her nephew, Adam Redmond of Palmdale, California; his daughter, Riley Redmond; her step-sons Maxwell (Josi) DeHaven of Warwick, Rhode Island, and Anthony DeHaven of Sacramento, California; and her grandchildren Genevieve (Kristen), Joshua, Olivia, and Dominic DeHaven. Her family remembers her for her generosity, humor, and the deep affection she held for each of them.

In accordance with her wishes, Carol’s ashes will be scattered at Redondo Beach, California, where she and Chris shared many of their early years together. She named her step-son Maxwell as executor of her estate and entrusted Anthony with the care of her beloved golden retriever, Zoe.

Carol’s passing followed a series of debilitating strokes. Her family is grateful for her neighbor, Abe Habegger, whose attentiveness ensured she received care in her final days.

Carol will be remembered for her strength, spirit, and steadfast devotion to those she loved.

Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date.