Carol Caroline Coxe

Carol Caroline Coxe (née Krebs), 88, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved her dearly, countless cherished memories, and a legacy of hard work, kindness, and unconditional love that will live on for generations.

Carol was born on June 11, 1938, in the Town of Lima, Wisconsin, to William and Ella Krebs. Growing up in a big family taught her early on that if something needed to be done, you rolled up your sleeves and did it. That hardworking attitude stayed with her for the rest of her life.

She married Gerald Coxe, and together they built a family that meant everything to her. After Gerald passed away in 2023, Carol carried on with the same strength and determination that had always been part of who she was.

Carol wasn't someone who liked to sit still. From milking cows as a young woman to raising her children, changing diapers, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, or taking care of whatever needed attention, she was always busy. She didn't look for praise. She simply believed in getting the job done.

From 1994 until retiring in 2024, Carol worked as a custodian at Northside Intermediate School in Milton. She took pride in keeping the school clean and looking its best, but what she really enjoyed was seeing the students every day. She loved watching them grow up over the years and being one of the familiar faces who helped make the school feel welcoming. Her coworkers knew her as someone you could always count on and someone who was always good for a laugh. More than anything, Carol loved her family.

She is survived by her children, Gerald "Fritz" Coxe (Kathie), Donna Coxe, and Jim Coxe (Kelly); her former son-in-law, Scott Poehler and former daughter-in-law Julie (Joe) Marino, who remained an important part of her family; 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and friends.

One of Carol's favorite places was her cabin in the Driftless Area near Boscobel. It wasn't a place for big family gatherings. Instead, it became a place where her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren each made their own special memories with Grandma. Whether it was a quiet weekend at the cabin, hanging outside with Frisco, or simply enjoying time together, those moments meant the world to her and are memories her family will always treasure.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

As a family, we'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Carol's son, Gerald "Fritz" Coxe, and his wife, Kathie, for the years of love, care, and dedication they gave Grandma. We are also deeply grateful to Carol's granddaughter, Melissa Coxe, for being by Grandma's side during the final chapter of her life, and to the wonderful teams at Visiting Angels and SSM Hospice for their kindness, compassion, and support. Your care, comfort, and love meant more to our family than words can express.

Carol will be remembered for her hardworking spirit, her caring heart, and the unconditional love she had for her family. She showed her love through the things she did every day, by lending a hand, taking care of the people around her, and always putting her family first. We'll miss her more than words can say, but we're thankful for every lesson, every laugh, every hug, and every memory she gave us.

Her love will stay with us always.