Carolyn Joan Goeringer Basler

Obituary: Carolyn Joan Goeringer Basler

October 26, 1935 – April 27, 2025

Carolyn Joan Goeringer Basler passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and bold, beautiful living.

Born October 26, 1935, Carolyn was the youngest of six children. Raised in the Shavertown area of Pennsylvania and later on North Main Street in Wilkes-Barre, Carolyn grew up in a home filled with warmth and charm. Her father, Harry Goeringer, ran a successful family real estate business, and her mother, Mary Malkemes, lovingly managed their bustling household.

Carolyn graduated from Wyoming Seminary in 1953 and went on to earn a degree in Education from Wilkes University in 1958. During her college years, she embraced the music and rhythm of the jitterbug and polka, creating memories she would treasure for a lifetime.

She married Robert Raymond and together they had three children: Betsy, Robert, and David. The family suffered the heartbreaking loss of little David to cancer as a toddler. Later, Carolyn married John Basler, with whom she shared many joyful years. In 2012, Carolyn created the Harry and Mary Goeringer Preserve, a wildlife preserve in Northeastern Pennsylvania, to honor her parents.

A proud and active member of the Boca Raton community, Carolyn poured her heart into everything she did—from church involvement to community events and especially the Garden Club, where she earned numerous ribbons for her masterful flower arrangements and orchid cultivation. She was always up for a new experience, whether it was travel, beach moon parties, or simply trying something new—and sharing her honest (and often hilariously unfiltered) opinions about it.

Carolyn had a presence that filled the room. She was never afraid to speak her mind, passionately defend her beliefs, and yet listen thoughtfully to others. Those who knew her remember her warmth, her generosity, her unwavering faith in God, and a unique ability to bring both comfort and comic relief without even trying.

Carolyn is survived by her children, Robert Raymond of Hallandale Beach, Florida, and Betsy Hodde; her cherished grandchildren, Simone Batish, Michael Hodde Jr., and Hope Raymond; great grandchildren Claire and Vera, and a community of friends and family who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Basler (2022), and her beloved son, David.