Obituary of Carolyn Castagnoli

CAROLYN MARSHALL CASTAGNOLI Carolyn Castagnoli, 87, passed away on April 17, 2012, after enjoying 5 years in Chico, at Prestige Assisted Living. She loved being near her family, son, Greg, daughter-in-law, Dee; daughter, Glenda Lewis, son-in-law, Dan; grandson, Joseph Lewis; granddaughter, Kelli Brady, and Kelli's husband Matt. One of Carolyn's greatest joys was playing with her first great-grandchild - adorable 2 year old, Nathan Brady, born here in Chico, and meeting her beautiful great-granddaughter, Brooke, born to grandson, John Castagnoli and his wife, Kara just 6 months ago in San Jose. Carolyn is also survived by grandsons, Matt and Chris Swan; son-in-law, Bob Swan, and niece, Lynette Viator in San Jose. Her husband, Guido, and daughter, Carol Swan, passed away almost 20 years ago. Carolyn was born in 1924 in Brookneal VA, and grew up in Naruna, VA. She never quite lost that Southern drawl. She was a triplet, and had twin sisters for a total of 9 siblings! She is survived by two of her brothers, Manly Marshall, and George Herbert Marshall, both living in Virginia. During World War II, Carolyn worked in the shipyard, where she learned to crochet during breaks. She won many blue ribbons over the years with her beautiful creations! She also won the heart of a handsome young soldier, who would be her husband for 49 years. In 1945, she and Guido Castagnoli married, moved to San Jose, and lived two houses away from where Guido was born. In 1949, after their first child, Greg arrived, Guido told Carolyn that he had a "surprise" for her. She was hoping for a washing machine. Instead, it was a 1942 Army jeep! But, she learned to drive in that jeep, and Greg is now taking his grandson for rides in it. Carolyn had some great stories to tell, and lots of wonderful times with her family. She was a very generous, loving mom and grandmother, and a great mother-in-law. Her witty comments and chuckle will always be remembered. She will be buried in San Jose next to her husband and daughter.