To Carolyn Rautenstrauch Speaker Treisch – (14 November 1953 – 9 October 2019)
Although we hadn’t spoken to each other in many years, that time passed can’t diminish the deep, hollow ache of grief for the loss of a once very, very dear friend.
We were best friends at Memorial and partook of all the joys, drama, trials, and tribulations of being young teens. The only class we shared was chorus with Mr. Allegretto, and of course, lunch. At that age it was a time for us to pass notes between classes, write in slam books, discuss “like” liking a boy, learning about fashion, hair styles (you remember her Twiggy haircut, right??), music, dance moves, dating, and how to kiss boys.
We, and when I say “we” I mean Carol and Mad and I, because we did most things together, went to the Teen Fair at the Convention Center downtown. We visited all of the exhibits, saw a Mod fashion show, listened to Van Morrison and James Gang win the battle of the bands and came home with big, paper flowers and streaks of pink and blue in our hair. It was 1967 and the air was filled with peace and love. Encouraged to wear flowers in our hair and go to San Francisco, we hatched a plan to drive a Honda 50 (!!!!!!) on our adventure. That never happened, of course!
I believe Carol always knew she was going to be a writer; it just seemed she was cut from that fabric. She would get writer’s bumps on her finger and wore them like a prize for writing so much. She told me she liked to write poetry, but, sadly, I was never able to read any of hers. I’m sure they were filled with images of passion for life that came straight from her heart.
The summer before Brush, we began to drift apart, see less of each other, and develop separate interests, but since I heard of Carolyn’s death, so many memories have reassembled in my mind, as I’m sure they also have for many of you. Some of the best memories of my life are of Carol (and you, too, Mad!) because I learned so much about life from her. She imbued kindness and compassion. She was brave, curious, and sensitive. She had a generous smile, a bright mind, and an enthusiastic anticipation for the future.
I’m deeply sorry Carolyn is gone from this realm, but so immensely pleased to have known her. I know all of her family and friends will keep her close in their hearts and her life sweetly remembered. Madelyn, especially you, please know I share the same precious love for you. If any of you are so inclined, please say a prayer for Carolyn’s journey. I think she would like that.
Ray Toll Jr.
Remembering sweet Carolyn, a pretty girl with a bright smile. She and twin Madelyn would brighten every class she walked into. RIP, dear classmate.
Barbara Price (Marlowe)
I remember Carolyn well. We are losing too many of our class too soon - too young.R.I.P.
Cheryl Aveni
Carolyn and Madelyn were such sweethearts. It is so sad to say good-bye to yet another classmate. May Carolyn rest in peace.
Katie Karrick (Karrick)
To Carolyn Rautenstrauch Speaker Treisch – (14 November 1953 – 9 October 2019)
Although we hadn’t spoken to each other in many years, that time passed can’t diminish the deep, hollow ache of grief for the loss of a once very, very dear friend.
We were best friends at Memorial and partook of all the joys, drama, trials, and tribulations of being young teens. The only class we shared was chorus with Mr. Allegretto, and of course, lunch. At that age it was a time for us to pass notes between classes, write in slam books, discuss “like” liking a boy, learning about fashion, hair styles (you remember her Twiggy haircut, right??), music, dance moves, dating, and how to kiss boys.
We, and when I say “we” I mean Carol and Mad and I, because we did most things together, went to the Teen Fair at the Convention Center downtown. We visited all of the exhibits, saw a Mod fashion show, listened to Van Morrison and James Gang win the battle of the bands and came home with big, paper flowers and streaks of pink and blue in our hair. It was 1967 and the air was filled with peace and love. Encouraged to wear flowers in our hair and go to San Francisco, we hatched a plan to drive a Honda 50 (!!!!!!) on our adventure. That never happened, of course!
I believe Carol always knew she was going to be a writer; it just seemed she was cut from that fabric. She would get writer’s bumps on her finger and wore them like a prize for writing so much. She told me she liked to write poetry, but, sadly, I was never able to read any of hers. I’m sure they were filled with images of passion for life that came straight from her heart.
The summer before Brush, we began to drift apart, see less of each other, and develop separate interests, but since I heard of Carolyn’s death, so many memories have reassembled in my mind, as I’m sure they also have for many of you. Some of the best memories of my life are of Carol (and you, too, Mad!) because I learned so much about life from her. She imbued kindness and compassion. She was brave, curious, and sensitive. She had a generous smile, a bright mind, and an enthusiastic anticipation for the future.
I’m deeply sorry Carolyn is gone from this realm, but so immensely pleased to have known her. I know all of her family and friends will keep her close in their hearts and her life sweetly remembered. Madelyn, especially you, please know I share the same precious love for you. If any of you are so inclined, please say a prayer for Carolyn’s journey. I think she would like that.