Caroline B. van Thillo, 87 Caroline B....

Caroline B. van Thillo, 87

Caroline B. van Thillo, a 49-year resident of Laguna Beach, died

August 24. She was 87 years old.

Born in Belgium on Dec. 27, 1917, she and her late husband, John

van Thillo, came to America in 1954 with their four children, Marie

Anne (“Marianne”), Marie Elizabeth (“Zus”), Jan and Willem (“Wim”)

and moved to Arcadia, California.

In 1956, they moved to Laguna Beach. In 1960 Marie Helene

(“Marlene”) was added to the family.

The couple was married 64 years.

Mrs. van Thillo is survived by her children; Marianne; Zus and her

husband, George; Jan and his wife, Kay; Wim; and Marlene. There are

six grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren, and four great-great

grandchildren.

Her sister, Elizabeth Spencer, of Laguna Beach, also survives her.

During her last two weeks, most of her family was present, and she

took great joy in having five generations of family around her for

her final days.

An avid garage sale enthusiast for the past 50 years, she was

known throughout the community for her gentle ways and smiling face.

Services were held at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church.

Her ashes will be scattered at sea.