Carolyn “Carol” Petersen of Orange County, California, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025.

Carol was born on April 7, 1941 in Brooklyn, New York. As an infant, she was lovingly adopted by Victor and Marguerite Petersen. Two years later, her sister Sandra Donnelly joined the family. Carol and Sandy grew up together on Long Island, then moved to Los Angeles for high school, remaining close throughout every stage of their lives.

Carol built a meaningful and rewarding career as a physical education teacher in Santa Rosa. She took great pride in helping children develop confidence, strength, and joy through movement. She was admired by both students and colleagues for her dedication, kindness, and quiet leadership.

Animals were always a central part of Carol’s life. She adored her beloved cats Dusty Rose and April, volunteered with wildlife and rescue organizations, and continually supported causes that protected animals in need.

In 2014, Carol moved to Orange County to be closer to Sandy. Together they enjoyed dinners, movies, and the simple everyday comfort of being near one another.

Carol was a devoted and proud aunt to Kathleen and Brian, and a loving great aunt and godmother to Kayleigh and great aunt to Kierra. She celebrated every milestone in her family’s lives, always present with steady love, encouragement and support.

She will be remembered for her gentle heart, her quiet humor, her patience and the calm, caring presence she brought into every room. Carol lived her values through actions, rarely seeking attention yet always making a difference.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved by her family and friends.

Services

Rosary Sunday, November 30 at 2:00 PM O’Connor Mortuary Laguna Hills, California

Funeral Mass Monday, December 1 at 10:00 AM San Francisco Solano Catholic Church Rancho Santa Margarita, California

Graveside Service Tuesday, December 2 Holy Sepulcher Cemetery For close family and friends

In lieu of flowers, donations in Carol’s memory may be made to a local animal shelter or rescue organization, reflecting her lifelong love for animals.