Carol Ann (Trimboli) Mahler
December 25, 1937 — November 6, 2024
Carol Ann (Trimboli) Mahler passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the age of 86 with her family close by her side. Carol was born in Brooklyn, NY on December 25, 1937, to the late Salvatore and Minerva (Newman) Trimboli. She graduated high school in New York, studied to be a Nun for almost 6 years and changed paths to proudly volunteer her service in the US Army. Carol was stationed in Fort Ritchie, MD where she met her future husband of 53 years. Carol married James Mahler on April 17, 1971, at Saint Monica Catholic Church in Mishawaka.
Carol dedicated her career to nurturing children, first as a kindergarten aide at Mary Phillips Elementary School and Saint Monica’s Catholic School, and later as the beloved “computer lady” at John Young Middle School in Mishawaka. After retiring, she embraced her role as a full-time grandmother, creating a safe and loving space for her grandchildren to learn, explore, and grow. Her children knew that their children were not only cherished but encouraged to discover the world in a secure environment.
Outside of work, Carol lived to help others and instilled that same spirit in those around her. Over the years, she was famous for her homemade Sour Cream Cookies and jars of grape jam, which she gifted to countless friends and family members. At the farmers market, she supported local artisans by buying handmade dishcloths and kitchen towels, which she would later gift to those she loved. A proud fan of Notre Dame football (despite her children's attendance at Purdue), Carol brought joy and humor into everyday life. When she took an afternoon nap, she’d say she was “just resting her eyes.” Shopping trips became “running errands,” and on her daily three-mile walks with her loyal dog Happy, she earned the affectionate nickname “the bag lady.”
Carol was a spirited and dedicated volunteer, serving Saint Monica’s Church for over 53 years. Her contributions were many: she worked in the nursery, taught Sunday School, served as a Eucharistic Minister, and was active on the Parish Council.
Carol’s final years were filled with love and blessings, thanks to the many visitors who came to spend precious time with her. Above all, a heartfelt thanks goes to her devoted husband, who took exceptional care of her, attending to daily needs with unwavering love and dedication through her final five years.
Carol Ann is preceded in death by her brothers, Don and Paul; sisters, Beverly and Arlene and survived by siblings Eugene, Faith, Gregory, Herbert. She is survived by her children: Cynthia Mahler of Seabrook, TX, Matthew (Stephanie) Mahler of Mishawaka, IN, Connie (Larry) Jacobs of Mishawaka, IN. She is a beloved grandma to 5 grandchildren: Nicholas, Charlie, Ellie, Jake, and Hunter.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 13th at 11:00 am with visitation one-hour prior at 10 am at Saint Monica’s Catholic Church, 222 W. Mishawaka Ave., Mishawaka, IN 46545. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.
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