Carol Heldman

The world lost a kind soul on March 19, 2024, when Carol Heldman, 90, of Mattoon, IL passed away at the Casey Health Care Center due to complications from dementia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Horace and Francis (Gullett) Cook, her brother Horace Cook Jr., her youngest son James “Jamie” Heldman and her husband Jack Heldman. She is survived by three sons, Tim Heldman of Mattoon, IL, Jeff (Debi) Heldman of McMurray, PA, John (Cassie) Heldman of Mattoon, IL and five scattered grandchildren, Renee, Christopher, Elizabeth, Nate and Joshua. She is also survived by her sister Barbara (Dick) Kime of Tampa, FL. Carol was a woman of great compassion, humility and had a razor tongue, not holding back from speaking her thoughts. She was active in school activities and sports in her younger years and carried on that passion with her crafting and gardening in later years, enjoying the most robust flower garden. Carol had several opportunities of employment within her home area of Coles County. She worked for Illinois Consolidated and the Coles County Courthouse, accomplishing tasks with expertise and competency. Later, her main vocation was the co-owner and operator of the family printing business started by her late husband of over 66 years until their chosen retirement at age 55. Carol was a regular at the library, reading every mystery she could get her hands on. She taught her children to read every published Dr. Suess book. She also spent several hours reading Winnie the Pooh, Curious George and other classic children’s books to and with her grandchildren. Carol successfully corralled four mischievous boys, constantly providing food and shelter for them and their numerous neighborhood friends. She was first and foremost a mother and knew the importance of family. Carol’s most cherished duty was providing care and guidance for her family. She was an excellent baker and cook and rarely used a recipe, just like her mother and grandmother. Perhaps it was fitting that her maiden name was Cook. Carol was generous in passing these skills onto her granddaughters. In her later years, Carol enjoyed playing bridge with the “ladies” and Sunday morning coffee with her family. Carol was an avid crossword “puzzler” and enjoyed watching historical documentaries. Carol loved the beach, so her natural role was snowbird in Englewood, FL with her friends and relatives. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, July 20,2024 at Dodge Grove Cemetery, with Mitchell- Jerdan Funeral Home, located at 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938, is assisting with the arrangements. Donations can be made in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual candle in her honor or share a memory with the family.

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Carol Heldman

January 5, 1934 - March 19, 2024