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Carolyn Genise Kischer, known by friends and family as Genise, or “Niecie,” passed away after a short illness Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, in San Diego, Calif.
Genise was born to William “Bill” and Signe Kischer of Newell, Nov. 7, 1935.
Growing up in Newell, Genise was a member of Nain Lutheran Church, as were most of her family and many relatives. She remained faithful all her life and held the many traditions of the Danish church near to her heart.
Throughout Genise’s life, she maintained close relationships with her many friends. Genise was very proud of her schoolmates in Newell and was an active member of the class of ’53 until she passed. Genise loved music, particularly singing with her school choir and at church, and was honored to be a part of the Iowa All-State chorus her senior year of high school. Her passion for music followed her to California where she performed with the San Diego Opera.
Among her favorite hobbies was gardening. Genise studied to become a master gardener and blessed family with her knowledge of growing plants. Wherever she lived she made a place for beauty in the outdoors. Another love she discovered was volunteering with the Special Olympics. She was always moved by the determination and sheer joy of her athletes and the closeness they shared.
Her family wishes for all who remember Genise to know that she loved them and revered every memory. She often spoke fondly about her life in Newell, and her many close friends she made growing up there. Genise was a kind and sensitive soul, a loving mother and grandmother, and was always generous to the less fortunate in this world.
Genise is survived by her daughter Robin Wood of San Diego; Blake and Sitara Wood of Hawaii; Chris and Gin Sogard of Louisville, Ky.; grandsons: Kalen, Kirin and Keegan; sister-in-law Virginia Kischer of Quimby; and many nieces and nephews.
Genise was preceded in death by her parents and brother Don Kischer.
