Carol Ann Willems

Carol Ann Willems (nee Johnson), 79, passed away April 2, 2023, at home in Appleton, surrounded by her loving family. She was born June 17, 1943, in Green Bay, the daughter of the late Wallace and Joyce Johnson. Carol graduated high school from St. Joseph’s Academy in Green Bay.

Carol married the love of her life, John, on June 18, 1965. Carol was preceded in death by John on Nov. 15, 2021, after 56 years of marriage. For 24 years Carol and John (“spouses sell houses”) had a highly  successful real estate career together, winning many top awards.  She and John owned and ran the Camelot bar and restaurants in Appleton and Menasha, and the Piccadilly Pub in Menasha. Carol and John made their restaurants a fun time for all and served their famous “Castle burgers” and broasted chicken.  

Carol is survived by her loving children, daughter Tracy (Rob) Golub, sons Mark (Rhonda) and Chuck (Tina) as well as her adoring grandchildren Hannah Golub, Hayden and Rayne Willems. She is survived by sister-in-law Elizabeth Biebel, and is further survived by six dear brothers and sisters, known to all as “the Johnsons,” who were always ready for a lively, and fun-loving time together: Mike Johnson,  Bill Johnson (Karen), Mary Benson (Bill), Pat Stier,  Lynn Lenth (Ed), and Barbara DeRuyter, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Carol will be remembered as a very sparkling, energetic, fun, funny and positive person who always lit up whatever room she was in, and who loved her family deeply. The Catholic faith was truly important to her. She was an avid hockey and soccer mom. She loved sitting at her Door County cottage on a giant swing with John, family, and friends, having bonfires and roasting marshmallows while looking at the sunset over the water. Friends around the cottage were like family. As a child, Carol loved to tap dance with her cousin and she was particularly proud of winning various tap dancing competitions. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A visitation and slideshow for Carol will be held from 9-11 a.m., and a memorial service will begin at 11 a.m., April 15, 2023, at Wichmann Funeral Home’s Tri-County Chapel, 1592 S. Oneida St., Menasha.