Caryn M. Skjerven
June 25, 1950 — March 25, 2024
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Past Services
Memorial Gathering
Davenport Family Funeral Homes and Crematory – Crystal Lake
Monday, April 15, 2024
3:00 - 7:00 pm (Central time)
Memorial Service
Caryn M. Skjerven
Caryn M. Skjerven, 73, a beloved pillar of her community, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on March 25, 2024. She was born on June 25, 1950 in Rugby, North Dakota to the late Merton and Shirley Hartvickson.
Caryn grew up in Wolford, ND and attended North Dakota State University where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. While at college, Caryn met her beloved husband, David. Caryn and David exchanged vows on May 15, 1971, in Wolford, North Dakota, beginning a journey that spanned decades and continents. They were blessed with two cherished daughters, who were the pride and joy of their lives.
The call of duty led the family all over with David's service in the Air Force, eventually settling in Crystal Lake in 1979. It was here that Caryn's unwavering dedication to her community truly shone. For a decade, she served as the head of the food pantry, tirelessly ensuring that no one went without a meal.
Her faith was paramount in her life, and Caryn was an active and engaged member of Bethany Lutheran Church. Her commitment to her North Dakota roots and Norwegian heritage was evident in every aspect of her life. She delighted in sharing traditions and holidays with her family and friends, keeping her heritage alive for generations to come.
Caryn found solace and joy in her garden, cultivating beauty and serenity in every bloom. As a member of the Garden Gate Club, she shared her passion with fellow enthusiasts, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant gardens that mirrored her own spirit.
Travel was another source of delight for Caryn, with Norway and Aruba holding special places in her heart. However, her most cherished journey was celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary with her family in the Galapagos Islands, a testament to the enduring love she shared with David.
Above all, Caryn treasured her role as a grandmother. Whether cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events, attending recitals, or proudly witnessing their school achievements, she found boundless joy in their presence.
Caryn leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and service. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her generous spirit.
In addition to her beloved husband, David; Caryn is survived by her daughters, Karmen (Justin) Serbinski and Carrie (Brad) Padget; grandchildren, Hannah, Claire and Conrad Serbinski, Elise and Drew Padget; sisters, Susan (Loren) Marchus and Kyle (Russell) Handegard; and by many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Scott Hartvickson.
Memorial visitation will be Monday, April 15, 2024 from 3 PM until 7 PM Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. A memorial service will follow on Tuesday, April 16 at 11 AM at Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 W. Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
While Caryn loved flowers, donations may also be made to Bethany Lutheran Church.
Caryn grew up in Wolford, ND and attended North Dakota State University where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. While at college, Caryn met her beloved husband, David. Caryn and David exchanged vows on May 15, 1971, in Wolford, North Dakota, beginning a journey that spanned decades and continents. They were blessed with two cherished daughters, who were the pride and joy of their lives.
The call of duty led the family all over with David's service in the Air Force, eventually settling in Crystal Lake in 1979. It was here that Caryn's unwavering dedication to her community truly shone. For a decade, she served as the head of the food pantry, tirelessly ensuring that no one went without a meal.
Her faith was paramount in her life, and Caryn was an active and engaged member of Bethany Lutheran Church. Her commitment to her North Dakota roots and Norwegian heritage was evident in every aspect of her life. She delighted in sharing traditions and holidays with her family and friends, keeping her heritage alive for generations to come.
Caryn found solace and joy in her garden, cultivating beauty and serenity in every bloom. As a member of the Garden Gate Club, she shared her passion with fellow enthusiasts, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant gardens that mirrored her own spirit.
Travel was another source of delight for Caryn, with Norway and Aruba holding special places in her heart. However, her most cherished journey was celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary with her family in the Galapagos Islands, a testament to the enduring love she shared with David.
Above all, Caryn treasured her role as a grandmother. Whether cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events, attending recitals, or proudly witnessing their school achievements, she found boundless joy in their presence.
Caryn leaves behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and service. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her generous spirit.
In addition to her beloved husband, David; Caryn is survived by her daughters, Karmen (Justin) Serbinski and Carrie (Brad) Padget; grandchildren, Hannah, Claire and Conrad Serbinski, Elise and Drew Padget; sisters, Susan (Loren) Marchus and Kyle (Russell) Handegard; and by many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Scott Hartvickson.
Memorial visitation will be Monday, April 15, 2024 from 3 PM until 7 PM Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. A memorial service will follow on Tuesday, April 16 at 11 AM at Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 W. Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
While Caryn loved flowers, donations may also be made to Bethany Lutheran Church.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Caryn M. Skjerven, please visit our flower store.
Past Services
Memorial Gathering
Monday, April 15, 2024
3:00 - 7:00 pm (Central time)
Davenport Family Funeral Homes and Crematory – Crystal Lake
Memorial Service
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
11:00 - 11:45 am (Central time)
Bethany Lutheran Church
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