Obituary

Carole Ann Kaminski, 84, of Mission Viejo, California, passed gently, comfortably, and peacefully at home into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the early morning of Sunday, March 22, 2020, in the caring presence of her loving husband David.  Although suffering from mild dementia for the last few years, she persevered throughout her life as a gracious, selfless, vibrant, strong, active, and talented woman. Now, she is at rest.

She was born Carole Ann Reubart on November 6, 1935, in Kansas City, Missouri. She grew up in a musical family and had a natural talent for music and singing. She (brazenly) auditioned for a big band when only 15 and was hired on the spot.  Thereafter, she performed for over 40 years at many different venues, mostly in Cleveland, Ohio, under the name of Carole Jaye. Her older brother Dale, a highly trained and regimented classical pianist and University music professor, was always amazed by her pop music and jazz improvisations. After moving to California in 1989, she became a member of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest where she met and married her husband David. She was active in Bible Studies, Chorale, Sunday service usher ministry, and the hospital ministry.

Carole was very health-conscious, enjoyed walking, tennis, golf, and also had a penchant for British crime drama and novels.  She loved her pet dogs, all named Mikey.  She frequently traveled across the country and world to visit with children and grandkids. She remained deeply connected and vested in her relationships, and was always available to listen and give advice when requested.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, Glen Dale and Lucina Ruth Reubart; brother Dr. Glen “Dale” Reubart Jr. (Francine); sister, Yvonne Barak (Moshe “Kim”); grandson Ricky Smith; and step-son David Ryan Kaminski.

Carole is survived by David L. Kaminski, her loving husband for over 22 years. She is also survived by her previous husband, Ted Johnson; children, Ken Johnson (Olga), Barb Smith (Tom), Chris Hopper (Steve), and Beth Staley (David); step-daughters Heather Cavaricci (Caesar), and Kathryn Boehler (Scott); grandchildren, Chrissy Hunt (Josh), Daniel, Nikita, Ilya, Dari, Danielle, Meagen, Esther, and Annamay; step-grandchildren Dylan, Cameron, Valentino, Venice, Declan, and Dallen; great-grandchildren Conner and Carson.

All who loved her and knew her will miss her captivating smile, her gentle and loving heart, hearty laugh, and beautiful singing voice.  Her departure is mourned, but her life and memory are celebrated knowing the peace she now enjoys in Eternity with Jesus Christ.