Surrounded by the love of her family, Carol Jean (Lichter) Robillard, 81, peacefully entered the presence of her Lord on July 15, 2026. She was born on September 2, 1944, in Racine, Wisconsin.
As the oldest of five children and one of more than 80 grandchildren, Carol grew up in a close-knit family where gatherings, celebrations, and time together were at the heart of everyday life. Those early years nurtured a deep commitment to family that would remain the foundation of her life.
After graduating from high school in 1962, Carol attended the Patricia Stevens Finishing School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she developed the confidence and skills that would serve her throughout her life. She then began her career in the exports department at Johnson Wax in Racine. One of her proudest accomplishments was leading an effort to change company policy so that women could continue working after they married, an achievement that reflected Carol’s independent spirit and willingness to advocate for what she felt was right.
Carol met her husband, Wayne Robillard, through letters they exchanged while he was serving in the U.S. Navy. They were married in October 1966 and shared nearly 60 years together. In 1971, Carol and Wayne made their home in Lander, Wyoming, where they raised their three daughters. Whether keeping the books for the family business, leading the religious education program at her church, or supporting her daughters at countless activities and events, she gave freely of her time, her talents and her love. As her daughters grew older, Carol began working outside the home. She quickly earned a reputation as an exceptional bookkeeper and office manager, so much so that more than one employer sought her out, hoping she would join their team. In all her endeavors, she was known for her efficiency and accuracy.
In 2003, Carol and Wayne moved to Laramie, Wyoming to be closer to their growing family and to spend more time with their grandchildren. Being surrounded by her family brought Carol immeasurable happiness. Her home became the gathering place for birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate with the people she loved. Each year, Carol looked forward to the annual family trip to Steamboat, Colorado, a treasured tradition that spanned seventeen years, and brought her family of twelve together to create lifelong memories. On those trips, the grandkids especially looked forward to Grandma Carol’s banana chocolate chip bread for breakfast – a simple, special tradition that captured her thoughtfulness.
A devoted member of St. Paul’s Newman Center Parish, faith was an important part of Carol’s life. She made lasting friendships within the parish community and found joy in serving others with the same generosity she showed throughout her life.
Carol will be remembered for her love of her family and friends, her strength, independence, loyalty and great generosity. She had a gift for making others feel loved and supported, and her kindness touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Lucille Lichter. She is survived by her husband, Wayne; her daughters, Laura (Jason) Tangeman, Karen Robillard, and Leann (Steve) Kaiser; her five grandchildren, Jordan Tangeman, David Tangeman, Taylor Smith, Sam Kaiser and Anna Kaiser; as well as her two sisters and two brothers.
A Vigil will be held at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, July 28 and a Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, both at St. Paul’s Newman Center in Laramie. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Hospice of Laramie or the Meredith and Jeannie Ray Cancer Center at Ivinson Memorial Hospital.