Page created by: Kate Steiner

At age 72, Carol Sirko of Lakeville, MN, died May 16, 2018 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Carol was born August 24, 1945 in Marshfield, WI. She was one of 11 children of Joseph and Iva (Genett) Lang. She is survived by her children Jon Sirko of Roanoke, VA and Kate Steiner of Apple Valley, MN; grandchildren, Owen Rojas Sirko and Liam Rojas Sirko; her five brothers, Ben Lang, Tom, (Diane) Lang, Ralph Lang, Paul (Darla) Lang, and Francis (Debra) Lang; five sisters, Sandra (Gene) Meyer, Gail (Bob) Snortheim, Mary Lang, Rosann (Dale) Machtan, Celeste (John) Lang; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by parents, Joseph and Iva Lang.

Carol loved life. She believed that life is a gift and she willingly shared that gift with all who accompanied her on her journey. Carol's first calling was to her family. She was deeply committed to her children. She encouraged their dreams and gave them wings to fly always reassuring them as they flew off that in her heart a little light would always be burning ... her arms would always be open.

Carol's second calling was to teach young children in the Milwaukee Public Schools for over 35 years. She served as a peaceful voice, calling for respect, understanding, and justice, believing in all of humankind's union with one God, whatever the cultural or religious differences. Carol's dedication to her calling earned her many awards, including recognition by the Disney Channel for exemplary teaching. Carol also won the National Crystal Apple Award twice, which earned her trips to Washington,

She was recognized with awards at both the national and local levels for her strong belief in teaching children respect for themselves and others. Through her commitment to social justice, she involved her children in food drives, coat collections, toy distributions, and providing blankets for shelters. Carol visited nursing homes teaching children, "Do not be afraid" to hug or to touch. Each year Carol received calls from numerous organizations requesting her class to perform the program created to teach respect for cultural diversity. Carol was grateful for the support she received from outstanding principals and other dedicated teachers. Together they earned teaching a respected name.

After retirement, Carol returned to Marshfield, WI. While in Marshfield, Carol found it rewarding that she could spend time with her mother and family. She also worked as a volunteer teaching English to Hispanic families. She started a library in her garage for neighborhood children. She frequently distributed flowers (from her sister's garden) to seniors; Carol enjoyed working in her yard as well. She was actively involved in the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Carol would like to thank each of you for your companionship on her journey. She would especially like to thank her caregivers of many years, Sandee and Bonnie. Her last years were spent in MN where she could be closer to her daughter. She is at peace.

Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM Friday, May 25 at The Church of the Risen Savior, 1501 E. County Rd. 42, Burnsville visitation will take place at the Church one hour prior to Mass. Private interment at Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights, MN.