Carolyn Brockert
July 21, 1934 - September 30, 2024
Carolyn Brockert of Costa Mesa, CA, legendary storyteller, world-class prankster and best friend anyone could want, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024 at age 90.
Born in Keokuk, Iowa on July 21, 1934, she was a daughter of the late William and Minnie Margaret (Schmid) Rittman.
Carolyn obtained her R.N. from DePaul Hospital School of Nursing in 1955. Her first job was as a charge nurse on a lobotomy unit at a psychiatric hospital in St. Louis. This profound experience forged her ambition to be a lifelong advocate for mental health patients.
In 1958 Carolyn and her best friend, Merry (Parks) Jennings, moved to California. Carolyn and Merry were charter employees at the opening of Fairview State Hospital in 1959. She went on to start the Psychiatric Technician program at Cypress College in 1969 and spent over 30 years teaching and mentoring in the psych nursing field.
While working at Fairview, Carolyn met the love of her life, Dr. Mike Brockert. They were married in 1963 and had a son, Michael. The family moved into their Costa Mesa home in 1971 and both remained there for the rest of their lives.
In 1973 Carolyn found sobriety thanks to the assistance of a 12-step program. She remained sober over 50 years and never wavered in her commitment to living life one day at a time. In that spirit, she was also dedicated to giving back and was a true inspiration to countless others traveling their similar journey.
A lifelong career in the psychiatric field gave Carolyn the unique ability to view life through the eyes of the criminally insane. This was undoubtedly the source of her wicked sense of humor and ability to enjoy life on her terms. In her spare time, she enjoyed rooting for her beloved Los Angeles Angels, a passion which drove her to frequently swear at the television. She was overjoyed when they won the World Series in 2002. Carolyn was an expert Mexican Train player (bring your money!) and always looked forward to weekend trips to Vegas.
Most of all, Carolyn was an extraordinary grandmother who loved her grandchildren, Aaron and Tommianne, more than life itself. She was present when they were born in London and frequently traveled to Hawaii so that she would never miss an important event in their lives.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Mike, and five elder siblings: Margaret, George, Donald, Patricia, and Dick. She is survived by her son, Michael Brockert (Genecris) and her “second son” Charles Anthony (Tonya); grandchildren Aaron and Tomianne as well as many adoring nieces, nephews and cousins.
Carolyn was especially blessed to be survived by her niece, Donna Tamboury (her “rock”) who saw to it that Carolyn and Mike were able to remain in their own home with dignity while receiving extraordinary care until their final passing. She was also grateful for the blessing of her daughter-in-law, Genecris Clark, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond of love.
Finally, the family is eternally indebted to a team of remarkable caregivers who loved Grandma like their own mother: Bernadeth Maindonald, Donna Marie Cruz, Milagros Abaya and Pascuala Mangahas. “Angels from heaven,” as Grandma described them. Thanks to them, she was able to enjoy a quality of life and level of care second to none in her final years.
All services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the General Service Office in Memory of Carolyn B. so that we may give strength to others traveling their path by clicking here.
Jana Rittman Peterson
Oh my, my, my…I cannot believe they’re all gone…kinda feels like I’m walking thru a mist sometimes. Aunt Carolyn was the BOMB I would get so excited to see how she would screw with dad and totally get away with it! Aunt Carolyn I love you and thanks for always showing up for me!!!
Bernadeth Maindonald
To my grandma Carolyn, I know from the bottom of my heart that you are now in peace and happy in the hands of our creator Lord Jesus Christ, together enjoying your family in heaven 😊 please look after us while we are still here on earth. I love you with all my heart, I will miss the weekly calls and our funny and sweet conversations. You will be missed so much 😘😊 with love from me and Julian 😊❤️
Billy Jennings
Hello, my name is Rusty Jennings (always ‘Billy’ to Carolyn). Growing up, Carolyn was like a second mother to me. She and my other Merry (Parks) Jennings were best friends, roommates, and partners in crime. Together they taught me how to live life to its fullest, call out the bullsh*t, and how to really appreciate and enjoy my family and friends. I am so happy that my wife and my 2 sons got to know Carolyn and fell in love with her, just like me. Carolyn is now and always has been in my mind and heart—that will never change—but I know that I will miss her beautiful and calming presence. I love you, Carolyn.
Nicole L Meyers
Carolyn was a wonderful friend and “mother” to my dad as well as a grandma figure to me. I am eternally grateful for the many years of kindness that she showed my dad and I’m so glad to have been able to reconnect with her in later years. She was kind, funny, interesting and her sobriety journey was an inspiration. I am grateful to have known her. Sending love to Mike and the rest of the family!
Lisa Sooy-Cook
My heart is happy that you two are reunited. I’m eternally grateful to have visited with you just days before, having many laughs with Jenny and your family; along with icecream. You and Mike both made an indelible mark on my life. May you visit me…
Valarie
Sigh..I will miss her…She was my mom Merry’s best friend and I was blessed to have her as my Godmother. Caroline and my mom were my inspiration to becoming a nurse. I will miss our conversations with her witty humor, incredible story telling and words of wisdom that always left me smiling!
So much laughter and love!
Love you Caroline!
Mikey, we are holding you, Gen, Aaron, Tomianne and the rest of the family close to our hearts! <3
Love, Valarie
Avis Compton
I’m sorry for the loss of Aunt Carolyn, last of the siblings!
Love and Prayers,
Avis Jo
What is the address of the General Service Office, where donations can be sent?
Paul
What a terrific summary of a great woman. My condolences to the whole family. Rest easy, Carolyn. ❤️🙏🏼
Marie Teglas
Dear Carolyn,
My heart is heavy right now. It was an honor to meet you a long time ago. It was at the hardest time in my life and you were there helping me through every step of the way. We became good friends. You called me “ my best friend” and that was an honor. Monday I got 2 messages from you. I will keep it for a long time, so I can listen to your caring voice.
Peace be with you my Friend ❤️
Regina Yegge
Oh sweet Carolyn! I cried so hard with her, laughed so hard with her, and poured out my problems to her on a regular basis for many, many years. I will be forever grateful to her for being in my life as my instructor in the Psychiatric Technology program, and the my AA sponsor, my great friend, my second mother, and my support since 1978! Her and Mike were Grandma Carolyn and Grandpa Mike to my kids. She has always been, and always will be, so dear to my heart. I can’t express in words the amount of love that I have for her. It’s beyond words. I learned so much and I feel so grateful to have known her and Mike and Michael and Michael’s amazing kids. I really could not have made it without Mike and Carolyn and they’re consistent love and support. I would always laugh so hard when she would say, “Regina, you’re such a pain in the ass!” It was said to put me back on track and it was always with love.
It was a very hard at times, but definitely worth it, my road to recovery, and to finding laughter in life. No one was better at telling a detailed, and extremely funny and interesting, story. There was always laughter. I will miss you so much! Love and prayers for all of you.
Joan Francis
My sweet wonderful friend you were more than my friend. From the moment we met we had a special bond that had never wavered. Through the Grace of God we share so many happy silly times sharing our love for our beautiful grandchildren Aaron & Tommi. And how you loved my family you will always be our family. I know you are bringing your wit & fun heaven will never be the same show them how to really have fun. I will miss you so much I carry you in my heart forever. Love you💋💕🙏💐
Stacy Dunning
We are so saddened to hear the news of the passing of Carol. Carol and her hubby Dr Mike bought their home in Costa Mesa the same year my parents bought theirs in 1971. My dad and her were besties, always joking around on whom would live the longest. Most of us have all stayed living on the Tree Streets. So many joyful memories spent with Brockert family (bbq,pool parties, holiday; bdays, etc. Carol was the life of the party with her funny dry humor. She was like a big part of our family & we will miss
her missed. See you across the bridge Carol.🌈 Thank you for being you and putting a big smile on our faces.
Pas mangahaa
Paalam grandma,salamat Po sa lahat lahat ,inde Po kita malilimutam sa buong Buhay ko,Alam ko Po n Masaya kna Kasama Ng pamilya mo KC Yun nmn Yung lging hiling mo dati pa,lgi Kong sinasabi sa u n ma swerte ka Kasi my anak Kang sobrang mahal ka Kya dapat gang dito kpa enjoyin mo Yung Buhay mo n Kasama Sila,at natupad nmn Yun,dahil sa nalalabing hininga mo Nkita ko n sobrang saya mo kapiling Ng anak mo Kya paalam grandma,mahal nmahal Po kita,slamat ulet s kabutihan mo skin at ng buong pamilya mo,.paalam npo ,alam ko Po n Masaya kna ngayon at kapiling mona so papo at ng buong family mo..RNP.. condolence Po boss.. from the bottom of my heart.thaks for everything 🥲🥲🥲🙏🙏🙏
Lori Anthony
Dearest Aunt Carolyn
You impacted my life more than you will ever know. My son has the same birthday. You and your mother helped form his early life due to your care while I was working. You convinced me to go to school and start my journey to my first career as a Psychiatric Technician. I was so glad you were one of my teachers. It helped me get through school. Our families have had so many experiences together. I miss all of you very very much. Don’t get too rowdy of there with the rest of the gang. My eternal love, Lori
The Vilals
Wishing the entire family peace and comfort as you grieve the loss of Carolyn. We’re grateful to have had the chance to meet her. Despite our time together being short, her loving and kind nature really made a lasting impact on us.
We hope the memories you’ve made with her will help you through this difficult time. Our deepest condolences. ❤️🩹
Liz M.
“An inspiration to those traveling a similar journey.” Well, that would be ME. I met Carolyn when I was at rock bottom and saw no way forward in my life. This angel brought me out of the darkness through compassion, dedication and tough love. I can say 100% I would not be here today without her. And my life was not the only one she touched. Thank god there is a place in heaven reserved for people like Carolyn. You will be missed beautiful woman!
Maury E
Carolyn reached out to my mom 45 years ago and it changed my family beyond what mere words could describe. Carolyn was my mother’s AAA sponsor. Carolyn endured much and their should be a sponsor chip just for walking my mom into her 20 year sobriety chip. This alone is a life worth remembering. But there is so much more. She was a loving, kind and honest friend to us. Thank you for the words of encouragement shared in confident with a single mother. And thank you for the laughter at Friday night card games around your kitchen table.
Thank you Carolyn for your life. For your work and love.
Many blessings Michael ❤️😊
Gregory Dexter
My friend Carol, will be greatly missed. We had a lot of joy a laughter over the years.
Our collective hearts are heavy with sympathy.
Someone so special can never be forgotten.
No words can describe how sorry I am for your loss.
Nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, but life goes on, and we have to live for those we love. May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead.
Please accept my sincerest condolences and know that I am here for you.
Amy Jennings
My heart is so heavy with the passing of Carolyn, she was one of the last few fence posts of our family. She was an open door, a story, a quirky bit of advice and a calm, gentle second mom to my entire family. Not to mention, she was one hell of a flower girl! Miss you sweet Carolyn, the world is weaker without you.
Mila
Grandma ,I know you are happy in heaven with the Lord,thank you for our happy days,smiles and laughter will remain in my heart, God Bless Auntie….
Alena Koza
To my honorary grandma,
I will miss your sense of humor and laughter.
I will remember the love, joy and kindness that you gave to my sisters and our children.
I know your with Papou, my dad and family and friends that have passed on.
Mikey, I wish you well and peace.
I’ll always cherish the memories of grandma. Peace and love to the family ❤️🫶
Nnamdi Alexander
In a short while i came to know Carolyn, she was one of the most amazing person I have ever met.. few weeks after I arrived America, Greg was always talking about visiting his very good friend Carol, and I went with him .Carolyn came outside to hug and greet us both , I never forgot that. She was such an amazing person. It’s amazing how a little encounter can leave such a lasting memory in one’s mind. Carolyn will be Greatly missed. Eternal rest grant unto her oh lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her Gentle soul rest in peace. Amen!
Charles "Chuck" Anthony
I’ve known Carolyn since I was a young child and will continue remembering her as my “second mom” for the rest of my life. During Christmastime in my youth, I enjoyed eating her chocolate fudge and “turd” (Russian tea) cookies while counting the dozens and dozens of presents under the Brockert’s Christmas tree in their house in Costa Mesa. When camping at Doheny Beach she’d make us laugh at her jokes while hanging out in her and Big Mike’s or my parent’s Dodge camper vans. During my high school and college years, I came to appreciate her educational, professional, and personal accomplishments—obtaining her R.N., being instrumental in the startups of Fairview State Hospital (Costa Mesa) and Cypress College’s Psychiatric Technician Program and succeeding at being clean and sober and sponsoring many newcomers in the AA program. In my adulthood my second mom always welcomed me—and many others—to her and Big Mikes’ house. After my divorce she encouraged me to visit often, and she always welcomed and supported me. My second mom and the Brockert’s house felt like a rock that stabilized my life. Over the years I observed her consistently helping the sick, suffering, and lonely in her personal life and in her professional career. She helped others in a very human way and with a sense of humor. Carolyn, my second mom, made a profound difference in my life and in this world, and she will always be a part of me. I love you second mom!
Sasha from Baku
I’m Sasha, I work with Michael -Carolyn’ son since 1998. Imagine how many times I was visiting this family in California, and it was also my family. We did so many nice things together, I cooked borsch for them…. what a time we had. She introduced me to all her big family, they took me to visit their relatives, they treat me as a family member. She was amazing woman. Im sorry for the loss of Grandma Carolyn (as we used to call her with Michael). My dear dear Carolyn, my second Mom, while she was alive I thought that I still have Mom. I was going to visit her in December, when I was planning to come for business trip to Delaware. Oh my God, I’ll not see her in December. Life is sooo fragile…now we lost grandma Carolyn. Sad sad sad.. I remember she was so happy when she learned that I also became a grandma. I have so much in my heart to express….She’ll remain in my heart forever together with Big Mike (Papou). Rest in Pease my dear dear Carolyn and Mike.
Holly Baines
Grandma Carolyn. The world will not be the same without you, you are absolutely one in a million. A beautiful lady with a massive heart. I will always remember you coming to visit us in England when we went to fetch the children from nursery, you drove over the bridge and drove on the wrong side of the road, we laughed for hours. Thankyou so much for being such a big part of my life. 🩷
Richard and Cathy Bybee
Dear,Sweet, Carolyn
What a joy having you as our neighbor all these years. You always had that beautiful smile for everyone you talked to and met on your life journey helping others. You will always be true angel remembered for your loving heart. Sending love to all your family. Richard and Cathy Bybee
Allison Francis
Carolyn, your joy for life inspired so many of us! How is it that I can’t call you tomorrow, or visit you at home to see you wearing that ridiculous apron Mikie bought you? My children, Aaron and Tommianne, are better people because of the caring and wildly silly approach to the world you engendered in your grandchildren. I am also enternally grateful for your daily check ins with my late father, Philip, after his cancer diagnosis. And, I am so thankful for the close bond you formed with my mother Joan. Carolyn Brockert, simply this: I love you. May you forever enjoy “Attitude Adjustment Hour” with Big Mike.
Moneyte
Eternal rest grant unto the soul of Grandma Carolyn. And may she rest in peace, Amen.
She had lived a beautiful life. She is now resting peacefully with the Lord.
We are glad to have met her.
Sending our deepest sympathy to the whole Brockert Family.
Sending love,
Jim and Monette Shank
Judy harris
Carolyn, my dear dear friend…I will really miss. But you will always be in my heart. Deepest sympathies to the family and many friends.