Carol Mae Moes

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Her love will be felt in the big moments and the little ones, in family gatherings, treasured traditions, and the everyday memories.

Carol Mae Moes, nee Tatge, age 82, of Cedar Lake, IN, went home to her Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Beloved wife of the late Henry Moes. Loving mother of John Moes, James (Terri) Moes, Jeremy Moes, Jodie (Ron Zielinski) Moes, and Julie Elger. Cherished grandmother of Danny, Samantha, Ryan, Jessica, Henry (Laila), Melissa (Jason), Michael, Josh, Amanda (Peter), Miranda (Darren), Aaron (Summer), Abigail (Anthony), and Faith (Jerry). Great-grandmother of 27. Dear sister-in-law of Carol Moes, Priscilla Mack, and Patricia Hamstra.

Carol was the heart of her family — the glue that held everyone together and the special bond that connected generations. Her love will be felt in the big moments and the little ones, in family gatherings, treasured traditions, and the everyday memories that become priceless over time. To all who loved her, she was home — a familiar voice, a comforting presence, and a constant reminder of what it means to love unconditionally.

Carol found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved bird watching, especially hummingbirds and bluebirds, camping, and gathering around the table for cards or a game of Rummikub. She was the ping-pong champion in her high school days and continued to show her in skill in her older years. There are many fond memories up north In Minnesota at the resort, Frosty’s ice cream shop, and the Longville turtle races. Carol’s dedication and strong work ethic carried throughout her life, as she continued working until the age of 80.

One of Carol’s most treasured traditions was making banket at Christmas, a tradition she lovingly passed down to her children and grandchildren. Each holiday season, this special tradition will continue to bring her family together and serve as a reminder of the love she poured into every moment spent with them.

Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, Carol’s legacy will live on in the family she held so close, the traditions she passed down, and the countless memories that will be shared for generations to come. Her love was a gift to everyone fortunate enough to know her, and the bond she created within her family will never be broken.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered as the heart of her family.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN. Interment Oak Ridge Cemetery—Lansing, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Bird Conservancy (www.abcbirds.org), in honor of Carol’s love of birds. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com