Carolyn Orso Bertelsmeyer, age 77, passed away on January 20, 2026. Born on July 2, 1948, Carolyn lived a life defined by faith, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to those she loved. She made everyone around her a better person simply by being herself, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Carolyn was the beloved daughter of Paul and Kathryn Orso, who preceded her in death and whose values of kindness, service, and integrity shaped the woman she became. She is survived by her devoted husband, John Bertelsmeyer, her partner in life and love, and her brother Donald (Kathy) Orso, brother in-law Jim (Glenda) Bertelsmeyer, and sister in-law Joy (Ray) Gee, in addition to many nieces and nephews and beloved friends. Carolyn was a proud and loving mother to Susan (David) Krieg and Scott (Jill) Bertelsmeyer, and her greatest joy was being Grandma "B" to Levi and Nathan Bertelsmeyer and Charlotte, Landon, and Amelia Krieg. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into each of them, celebrating their individuality, encouraging their dreams, and surrounding them with unconditional love.

Faith was a cornerstone of Carolyn's life. She was an active and dedicated member of The River at Eureka Church, where she found community, spiritual growth, and opportunities to serve. Her faith was not only something she practiced on Sundays but something she lived every day-through her compassion, her patience, and her genuine care for others.

Carolyn's passion for helping others extended into her education and life's work. She earned a degree in Religion from Wittenberg College, followed by a master's degree in social work from Boston University. These accomplishments reflected both her intellectual curiosity and her calling to serve. Over the years, she worked as a social worker and substitute teacher, care giver, and countless volunteer roles.

Outside of her professional and family life, Carolyn embraced simple joys that brought laughter and connection. She loved reading and traveling, always eager to learn something new or experience a new place. She enjoyed playing Mahjong and cards with friends and could often be found sharing playful competition and laughter with her grandchildren over pinball and ping pong games.

Carolyn was a caretaker in the truest sense of the word. She instinctively looked after everyone she knew and loved, often putting the needs of others before her own. She had a rare gift for making others feel seen and supported, and her influence will live on through the many lives she touched.  Above all else, Carolyn loved deeply and faithfully. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a joyful grandmother, and a loyal friend.

Services:  A visitation will be held at the FAMILY CENTER at SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, MO, on Friday, February 20, 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at The River at Eureka, 215 North Central Avenue, Eureka, MO 63025, Saturday, February 21 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The River at Eureka . Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.