Carol Waldman
Carol Waldman, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, teacher, and woman of steadfast faith, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Born October 3, 1960, Carol's life was marked by joy, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to the people she loved and the God she served.
Carol is survived by her devoted husband, Paul Waldman and her three children, Renee Kreiser (Jon), Josh Waldman (Erin), and Joel Waldman (Angie). She was the proud and adoring grandmother to 10 grandchildren, Alia, Larren, Caidrie, Charlotte, Max, Reed, Beckham, Griffin, Kellen, and Jovie. Each of them brought her immeasurable joy and knew the warmth of her love. She is also survived by her father, Gary Heidlebaugh and her brothers, Kyle Heidlebaugh (Dawn) and Flint Heidlebaugh (Kathy).
She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Heidlebaugh.
Carol had an unmatched zeal for life and a true spirit of adventure. She and Paul were high-school sweethearts and shared a lifetime of memories throughout their 44 years of marriage together, traveling to all of the lower 48 states on their motorcycle. From the mountains of Alaska to the Carolina shores, their countless adventures became treasured stories among family and friends. She loved going on trips, whether big cross-country journeys or spontaneous getaways, and cherished every moment exploring God's creation alongside her husband.
Her greatest joy was her family. Carol loved spending time with her grandchildren. Some of her fondest memories centered around hosting others in her home, camping with friends and family, and boating-it was not uncommon to see her tubing with her grandkids. She also loved relaxing outdoors, whether at the lake, on a beach, or around a campfire, where memories were made in the simple joy of being together.
Carol was a gifted cook and baker whose kitchen was always filled with the comforting aromas of something delicious in the making. While cooking, she often told stories of her mother, Mary, and their time together. She loved passing down family recipes to her children, ensuring that those traditions would carry on for generations. For Carol, a meal was never just food on the table. It was a way to bring family and community together, to create moments of laughter, conversation, and connection.
Carol was also a devoted teacher who poured her heart into her students and faculty. She had a gift for seeing the best in others and was a true cheerleader for those who sometimes had no one else in their corner. Her patience, creativity, and genuine care left a lasting mark on countless lives. Beyond the classroom, she was deeply connected to her church family at Bluffton Community, where she worshiped, served, and built lifelong friendships.
Carol's life was a testimony of faith in action. She met challenges with courage, embraced joy with gratitude, and shared her love freely with all who knew her. Her influence will continue to be felt in the lives of her family, friends, students, and community.
Visitation will be from 3-8 p.m. Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Bluffton Community Church. A celebration of life service will take place the following afternoon at 1 p.m., also at the church. Friends and family are invited to share their cherished memories of Carol during that service. COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME in Findlay is handling arrangements.
Online condolences are welcome at
www.coldrencrates.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Carol Waldman at
http://bit.ly/4oCXlMl. Checks may also be mailed to: Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, 101 W. Sandusky St., Suite 207, Findlay, OH 45840. Please make checks payable to Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and note "In Memory of Carol Waldman" in the memo line.
A scholarship fund will be established to honor Carol's legacy. In addition to financial assistance, the scholarship will provide mentorship to students, reflecting Carol's lifelong dedication to guiding and encouraging others. Through this program, her love and influence will continue to make a lasting impact for years to come.

Published by The Courier on Aug. 20, 2025.