Carolyn Marie Kostal

Carolyn Marie Kostal (born Sargent, adopted as Ponder) passed away on November 6, 2024, in Winter Haven, Florida, where she resided. Carolyn was born on April 30, 1941, at Mercy Hospital in Bay City to her biological mother, Nancy Jean Sargent. Just five days later, she was adopted by Ephriam “E.D.” Ponder and Dortha “Dot” Longley, who lovingly welcomed her into their family. Carolyn’s life was shaped by the warmth and support of her adoptive parents, who fostered her generous and joyful spirit from an early age.

Carolyn met her beloved husband, Al, while camping on the sandy shores of Tawas, Michigan—a chance encounter on the beach that blossomed into a marriage of 61 wonderful years. Carolyn embraced her roles as a devoted mother and wife wholeheartedly, taking pride in giving her time and energy to her family and community. She began her journey in volunteerism by joining the PTA when her sons started school. Her commitment extended beyond the school, as she became actively involved in the Boys Club of America, working in the auxiliary to fundraise for special events and programs. When her sons joined the Boy Scouts, Carolyn stepped up once again, serving as a den mother for the Cub Scouts and remaining a dedicated volunteer long after her sons completed the program. Her exemplary service was recognized with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award, the highest honor in the Boy Scouts of America, celebrating her legacy of generosity and commitment.

When Carolyn’s sons began attending her alma mater, T.L. Handy High School, she saw an opportunity to make a difference as the school faced funding challenges for essential equipment. She and her husband eagerly joined the newly formed Handy Pride Association, a group of dedicated parents working tirelessly to support the school’s needs. With her enthusiastic involvement, the Handy Pride Association raised funds to provide much-needed equipment and even established a scholarship fund to help future students.

Carolyn concluded her dedicated volunteering career as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Winter Haven, Florida. She eagerly participated in their annual fish fry and supported the Poppy Program, which distributes red poppies to raise funds for veterans, active-duty military, and their families. Through her work, she gained many lifelong friends and found joy and purpose in giving back to her community and those who served.

For social enjoyment, Carolyn joined a women’s bowling league, where she bowled for several years and even convinced her husband, Al, to join her in a mixed doubles league. She met one of her closest friends through bowling, Mary Fenske, and her husband, Ken. Carolyn and Mary quickly discovered a shared love for camping and began spending many summers camping together with their families and other friends. Carolyn cherished these annual camping trips, always looking forward to weeks spent outdoors with her loved ones. When Mary and Ken retired and began wintering in Florida, Carolyn and Al eventually decided to join them, and after their own retirement, they moved to Winter Haven to continue their shared adventures.

Carolyn is survived by her beloved husband, Elmer "Al" Kostal; her sons, Brian Kostal (Amy) and Kurt Kostal (Tracy); her cherished grandchildren, Katie Wood (Ian), Michael Kostal (Bekah), Adam Kostal, and Jacob Kostal; and her two great-grandchildren, Reagan and Wyatt.

Carolyn shared a deep and lasting bond with her dear family friends, Alan and Cheryl Spencer and his daughter, Melissa Dewitt. She helped to care for and guide Alan throughout his life, embracing him and Missy as part of her extended family. Carolyn learned of a family facing difficult times and took it upon herself to help. She welcomed two young brothers, Rick and Dale Moore, into her home, providing them with love, stability, and guidance during a challenging period in their lives. Carolyn cared for Rick and Dale as her own until they eventually grew up and moved on.

Carolyn will be remembered as a pillar of kindness and humility, a woman whose life was dedicated to lifting others up with unwavering generosity and compassion. Whether giving her time to her sons’ schools, volunteering as a den mother, or supporting veterans through the American Legion Auxiliary, she approached every opportunity to serve with an open heart and a joyful spirit. Her deep commitment to helping young people and supporting her community was recognized with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award, a distinguished honor in the Boy Scouts of America, celebrating her decades of selfless dedication and positive impact. For Carolyn, these acts of service were never about recognition; she saw each as a chance to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives, embodying the true spirit of giving.

Beyond her volunteer work, Carolyn was known for her warmth and sociable nature, cherishing the time she spent with friends and family. Every Thursday, she eagerly looked forward to dinners with her friends, always enjoying good conversation and a plate of shrimp. She also treasured the annual camping trips with her closest friends, spending countless summers sitting by the beach or around the campfire, sharing laughter and stories under the stars. These moments were the heartbeat of her life, filling her with joy and creating bonds that lasted a lifetime. Her sweet nature, sincere concern for others, and her love of simple pleasures left a legacy of love, kindness, and friendship that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Visitation and Reflection will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 AM, at Gephart Funeral Home, 201 W Midland St, Bay City, MI 48706. Carolyn’s family invites all who knew and loved her to join in honoring her life, sharing memories, and celebrating the warmth, kindness, and joy she brought to the world. The family kindly requests no flowers, and instead invites all who knew Carolyn to join in celebrating her life and sharing cherished memories.