Carol Ann Baker Prillwitz

Carol Ann Baker Prillwitz, 73, of Rochester, Michigan, passed away on October 18, 2024. She was born on December 28, 1950, in Niles, Michigan, to Elizabeth "Betty" June and Robert L. Baker. Carol often shared fond memories of growing up on Main Street in Berrien Springs and took great pride in her small-town Michigan roots. In the fall of her junior year at Berrien Springs High School, she met Bruce Prillwitz, her best friend and the love of her life. Carol graduated from Berrien Springs High School in 1969 and began pursuing a degree in education at Michigan State University, later transferring to Eastern Michigan University, where she completed her studies. Bruce and Carol married on December 21, 1974, at St. Anthony's in Buchanan. They raised their family in Rochester, Michigan, though they always dreamed of returning to Berrien Springs, where they felt most at home.

Carol was a dedicated educator who worked with deaf and hard of hearing children before later teaching English Language Learners. She guided her students with patience, compassion, and a deep belief in their potential. Carol’s ability to connect with students, understand their unique needs, and nurture their growth brought her immense joy. In addition to her teaching career, Carol cherished her time as a stay-at home mom, raising her three beloved children. She viewed those years as a blessing, devoting herself to nurturing and guiding them with the same love and dedication she offered her students.

Carol is survived by her daughter, Autumn (Jeff) Penney; her son, Aric Prillwitz; her daughter-in-law, Nicole Prillwitz; her grandchildren, Jack, Elizabeth, Keira, Maxwell, and Emily; her brother, Frank (Gigi) Baker and sisters, Lois (George) Baker Czirr and Martha (Robert) Binell.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Prillwitz; her son, Aaron J. B. Prillwitz; her sister, Suzan Baker Morrison; her parents, Elizabeth "Betty" June Baker Balbo and Robert L. Baker; and her stepfather, Peter A. Balbo.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 219 S. State Street, Niles. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church. A luncheon will immediately follow the service. A private interment will take place at South Union Cemetery in Berrien Center. Memorial contributions in Carol’s name may be made to the Berrien Springs Community Library, 215 W. Union St., Berrien Springs, MI 49103.