Obituary of Carolyn Louise Ulrich

January 18, 1941 - Eugene, Oregon
April 26, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Carolyn Louise Ulrich (nee Baker), of Calgary, AB, passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at the age of 82 years, bringing to a close her journey with Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Carolyn was born in Eugene, Oregon on January 18, 1941. She grew up in the farming community around Harrisburg, Oregon. She married Leo Ulrich in 1961. Daughter Ronda Faye was born in January 1964. In early January 1965, the young family made the brave journey to the frigid temperatures of Northern Alberta. Joining the Mennonite Volunteer Service, they settled in Calling Lake, AB where Leo was a bush pilot and aircraft mechanic. Life in the tiny, isolated community was a new adventure for Carolyn, chopping firewood, carrying and heating water for household chores, and washing clothes. Son Philip Leon arrived in January 1967 to make her family complete. The young family also lived in Slave Lake and St. Albert, AB. Over the years Carolyn lived in Edmonton, Grande Prairie, and Airdrie, before moving to Cochrane, AB. 

Carolyn showed her courage and determination in a variety of occupations. She worked as a school bus driver, a health care aide, and a meticulous cleaner of homes. She spent two summers with Alberta Forest Service in a fire lookout tower in Robb, AB. She loved singing and music - especially Southern Gospel and Barbershop. She loved visiting and staying in touch with her friends and many relatives.

Carolyn is survived by her son Phil (Michael) Ulrich of Bridgewater, Connecticut, USA; daughter Ronda (Barry) Neufeld of Cochrane, AB; beloved grandsons, Nolan, and Gideon (Lauren); adopted son Reaksa (Sophaly) Himm; brother Richard (Arlene) Baker; sisters, Shirley Gingerich, and JoAnne (Pieter) Bos; and many cherished nieces and nephews. Carolyn was predeceased by her father Bud (Ira) Baker, and mother Mary Baker.

A Celebration of Carolyn’s Life will be held at a date to be determined, in Harrisburg, Oregon. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Bethany Riverview, 2915 26 Ave SE #200, Calgary, AB T2B 2W6 Telephone: (403) 210-4600, email: bcf@bethanycare.com. 

Carolyn’s family wishes to thank ALL the staff on Poplar Lane 3N, Bethany Riverview for the affection and compassionate care they provided for our dear Mother and Grandmother in the last months of her journey. 

In living memory of Carolyn Ulrich, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.