Carolyn Sieck Kennedy

Carolyn Sieck Kennedy, 79, of Idaho Springs, Colorado, passed away on April 30, 2026, after a courageous journey with end-stage Parkinson's Disease. Born on October 28, 1946, in Evanston, Illinois, to Donald and Kathryn Bloom, Carolyn lived a life marked by purpose, generosity, and an unwavering spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

After graduating from New Trier Township High School in Winnetka, Illinois, Carolyn pursued her nursing education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, beginning a lifelong commitment to caring for others. In 1975, she made the bold move to Idaho Springs, where she became the owner and operator of Wardrobe Cleaners and an accomplished seamstress. Her career path eventually came full circle back to healthcare when, in 2012, she became a patient navigator for Clear Creek County, guiding individuals through the complexities of the healthcare system with the same warmth and dedication that defined everything she did. It was around this time that Carolyn met the love of her life, her partner Gary Edwards.

Those who knew Carolyn would describe her as kind, capable, and strong, yet equally feisty, funny, and endlessly giving. She found joy in sewing, indoor gardening, birdwatching, road trips, and a deep love of animals. Her presence enriched the many communities she served, including the United Church, the Idaho Springs Lion's Club, Social Ethics, Book Club, and Garden Club.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Kathryn Bloom; her sister, Barbara Hildebrand; her brother, Frederick Bloom; and her beloved partner, Gary Edwards. She is survived by her daughter Lisa Schell and spouse Karl; her daughter, Susan Esmond and spouse Truman; and her son, John (Jay) Kennedy and spouse Jamie, as well as her grandchildren Zach Schell, Elise Esmond, Avery Schell, Ty Esmond, Connor Kennedy, and Kiley Kennedy.

Carolyn's faith was a quiet and steady light in her life, and her family takes comfort in the promise that she has entered into a brighter, more peaceful place.

A Celebration of Life will be officiated by Pastor Ron Graves on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the United Church, 1410 Colorado Blvd, Idaho Springs. The celebration will begin in the sanctuary at 2:00 pm, followed by a reception in the Great Hall. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Charlie’s Place or Parkinson’s Foundation.

"No winter without a spring, and beyond the dark horizon, our hearts will once more sing. For those who leave us for a while have only gone away, out of a restless, careworn world, into a brighter day." ~Helen Steiner Rice