Carol Ann Schilcher, 76, of Freedom, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Friday, July 3, 2026. She was born on February 20, 1950, daughter of Clifford Thomas and Helen Rice (Laux). On December 13, 1969, Carol married A.J. “Jim” Schilcher and they enjoyed 46 years of marriage together. They were blessed with four daughters, 12 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and a future great-grandchild on the way. 

After raising her children, Carol was employed by the Freedom Area School District for over 20 years. Carol always dreamed of becoming a nurse. She was able to fulfill this passion by becoming one of the founding members of the Freedom First Responders in 1989 and devoted a large portion of her life to saving and helping others. She was very proud of this accomplishment and used her passion to give back to her community.

Carol was a very loving and devoted grandma who enjoyed spending time with each and every one of her grandchildren (and great grandchildren). She talked about them all the time and was very proud of each one of them. From countless sleepovers, attending sporting/school events and celebrations, spending time with family and supporting them meant everything to her. 

To all who knew Carol, she had a very witty sense of humor. She loved to feed the birds and enjoyed the simple things in life.  

Carol is survived by her daughters: Jennifer Schilcher, Emily Duescher, Ericka (Tim) Wolff, Maggie (Jeff) DeCoster; grandchildren: Jacob (Jessica) Schilcher, Amber (fiancé Bryce) Schilcher, Mason Schilcher, Owen, Abby and Hadley Duescher, Noah (MicKayla) Wolff, Ethan, Ella and Maddy Wolff, Emma and Drew DeCoster; brothers and sisters-in-law: Dick (Peggy) Bunn, Chris (Mike) Suess, Sally (Craig Smith) Hugley, Tom (Lisa) Schilcher, Patrick (Jen) Schilcher and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, A.J. “Jim” Schilcher; her father and mother Clifford Thomas and Helen Laux; brother, Bruce (Betty) Thomas; sisters: Judy (George) Berg and Mary Beth Bunn; an infant sister; niece, Sarah Reilly; nephew, Andy Bunn; her father and mother-in-law, Alvin Schilcher and Emilye (Len) Brumbaugh; brothers-in-law: Paul Schilcher and Charles Schilcher; and special lifelong friends Bruce and Brenda Ceneskie.

Carol treasured her friendships with Lois and Gary Kortz and Joan Fox. From numerous trips over the years, casino runs, dinners out and sightseeing car rides, she was extremely fortunate to have them in her life. 

Our family would like to sincerely thank the Freedom First Responders, Gold Cross and the Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department for their efforts. 

Per Carol’s wishes, a private burial/service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life. Burial will take place at St. Nicholas Cemetery, Freedom. 

Mom - We love you so much, and our hearts are shattered without you here. Thank you for being there throughout our lives, whether it was just to talk or help in some way. You will be FOREVER missed.

Love,

Jennifer, Emily, Ericka, Maggie