Carol Ann Kleinschmidt

Carol Ann Kleinschmidt, age 82, passed away peacefully on December 30th, 2022 in her home after an extended illness.

Carol was born to Lottie Shijka and John Baybeck on November 5,1940 in Saginaw Michigan. She was an Ohio resident for many years, but always considered Michigan her home.

Carol attended St. Mary’s Cathedral High School and Central Michigan University. She had a lifelong interest in education as a teacher and as an adult literacy volunteer in Stark County. She was a talented artist and particularly enjoyed and excelled in painting and sculpting. Her award-winning art was often on display at local galleries and museums and she was a longtime member of the Cleveland Museum of Art, The Massillon Museum, and The Canton Museum of Art. She also volunteered at Timken Mercy Hospital.

Carol had a quick wit and an unforgettable vibrant personality, a passion for classic movies and musicals, and an unwavering love for her home and her family. She had a determined streak as well which served her well throughout her illness.

She enjoyed art, music, traveling, spending time with family, animals, decorating, a good book, birdwatching and nature. She was particularly proud of her art and creative pursuits and spent countless hours in her studio “in the zone” as she liked to call it.

She is predeceased in death by her beloved husband Doug of 58 years and her brother Kenneth (Carol) Baybeck. She is survived by her two children: Kelly Kleinschmidt of Cleveland, OH who was her dedicated, loving caregiver and Mark Kleinschmidt (Nancy) Althouse of Jefferson, Colorado, grandson Sean Kleinschmidt also of Jefferson, Colorado, her great grandson Emmett, her brothers and sisters Wally (Holly) Budzinski of Defiance, Ohio, Tom Budzinski of Panama City, Florida, and Lynn Potts of Palmetto, Florida in addition to many nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters- in-law whom she cherished. She was also grateful to the many neighbors and friends who demonstrated great love and care to her and the family during her illness.

A combined celebration of life to honor both Carol and Doug will be held in the spring with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, a contribution in Carol’s memory may be made to the Canton Museum of Art.