On Monday, November 6, 2023, my world darkened a bit as I had to say goodbye to my mom.
Born June 15, 1940, in Salt Lake City to Karl and Ruth Schleckman, she was shortly joined by her sister Dian. She grew up on Harvard Avenue, attended East High School and graduated from the University of Utah (this and her dad’s affiliation with the U made her a die-hard lifetime Utah lady).
She married Edward A. Brophy Jr. (later divorced) and welcomed me, the numerous children she wanted wrapped into one. It was both a test and strengthening of her heart, but we made it! Through the years she worked as an administrative assistant at Hercules, IML Freight, VBC&M and finally Utah Transit. I believe her most important job was that of being my mom. She was eventually promoted to Grandma, and later GiGi.
She was well versed in practical jokes, a champion leg wrestler, fantastic gardener, avid Utah football fan, proud supporter of anything made of potatoes (especially chips and mashed potatoes), and lover of all my four-legged siblings, as well as her grand and great-grand dogs and cats. She loved a good thunderstorm, Johnny Mathis, and was known to break out in dance while cleaning house to the Bee Gees. The Utah mountains never failed to amaze her, and she spent a lot of time in them. I am glad she got to enjoy them one last time while they were at their best.
Carol is survived by her Daughter, Angela Petersen; grandson, Nicholas Petersen; granddaughter, Emmalyn Petersen; sister, Dian Crystal; nephews John and Stuart Brearton; as well as extended family members and an amazing group of people she lovingly called her friends. Waiting to welcome her were her dad and forever hero, Karl; her mother, Ruth; her first-born granddaughter, Jessica; all our sweet four-legged companions; and special people she lost along the way.
At her request, there will be no formal services. At my request, take some time to enjoy your favorite potato chips (make sure you get the crumbs at the bottom of the bag, it’s important) and remember her fondly, as she remembers you.
She was very concerned that I would be okay without her. My response was, “Are you kidding me? Do you know the lady who raised me? She was really strong, and I am too. Besides, I know you love me…” and she finished, “And I know you love me.” And so it shall be forever.
Carol was our administrative assistant in the traffic department at IML Freight.
Along with being a tremendous asset as an employee she was simply just a great person to work and associate with.
She is indelibly written on my memory as an example of what a really good person exemplifies.
I am Becky Wilson, the daughter of Mary Ann Meese (Schleckmann) and Fred. I remember Carol and Dian and the many stories of Uncle Karl. My best wishes go to you in this time of loss. I will look forward to seeing her again (and Uncle Karl) when we meet again on the other side. I love you, Carol.
I am so sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. She was an amazing and strong lady. I have wonderful memories of her.
Sorry for your loss
My condolences on the passing of Carol. AKA Brophy. I became fast friends with her while working at UTA, and even after she retired, we kept in contact and had occasional lunches with other retired UTA friends. She would politely snatch a french fry from my plate. Carol would call me and wish me a Happy Birthday, something I will miss hearing next week. I'll be making a donation to Shriners Hospital for Children; it's something I do for my loved ones instead of flowers.
Many treasured memories, all my love and prayers to you at this time. Your mom & I had some very enjoyable times, I will think of her often.
Mrs. Brophy = one of the best things to ever happen for UTA and for me personally - my forever friend - I Love You
Carol was such a kind, compassionate, genuine human. I am a better person for the unconditional love she gave me throughout our many years at UTA, and after her retirement at the lunches with her, Sherry and I. What a beautiful person, with a beautiful soul who gave me love and laughter.
Your mom added joy and fun to my life working down the hall from her at UTA. I was one of the lucky people she touched with her life. May her memory bring comfort to you all.
I am sorry for your loss. I enjoyed a few "Lunch with Brophy" when I was able to attend. She seemed to make time for a chat and I appreciated her warmth and humor.
Wendy Karsch.
I worked with Carol at UTA, and we became buddies. I loved her stories of working in Yellowstone (one of my very favorite places) and her practical jokes. She was a wonderful person!
Our long time friend and neighbor, we will surely miss Carol. Her candid way of saying things and dry wit were always welcomed. It was difficult for us the last few years to observe nature making life a little more difficult for her to get around. Still, she endured and we are grateful for her friendship and being such a great neighbor. Our sincere condolences and love to Angela, Nicholas, Emma and the extended family.
So sorry to hear about this wonderful ladies passing, I worked with her for many years at UTA. She always had a smile on her face and no matter how busy she was she always had time to say hi how are you today. I'm glad I got to meet her .
My condolences to Angela and family and Dian. Carol and Dian have been my friends for 75 years. Carol always had a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She will be missed.
Hi GG.This is Emma .I really miss you and I can’t wait to see you again in 100000000 years!Love you,And Merry Christmas New year and now Valentine day.🐾
