Carolyn Van Deusen-Tinger passed away peacefully at home April 27th, 2011, having lost her battle with pancreatic and liver cancer. A teacher at Walter B. Elementary School for 17 years, Carolyn taught grades 3 and 5, before settling into kindergarten, which she dearly loved. A lover of nature, Carolyn became an avid kayaker and nature photographer. She spent many happy hours with friends and family on and near the water. She was happiest at the ocean when she could feel the warmth of the sun and sand and the sound of the waves ebbing and flowing on the shore. She also enjoyed gardening, going on picnics, swimming and sitting by a crackling bonfire listening to the sounds of summer. Previously married to Paul E. Tinger, Carolyn and he were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Lauren Anne Tinger and Emily Lynne Tinger. For the past 5 years, Carolyn shared her life with Christos Markou, who was not only her life partner, but her primary caregiver during her illness. Her family is grateful for the love and compassion he not only gave to Carolyn, but to her entire family. Carolyn also leaves behind her parents, Richard A. Van Deusen and Carol M. Van Deusen; a sister Gretchen Van Deusen-O'Connell, her son, William O'Connell; a brother, Richard A. Van Deusen, Jr., his wife, Jennifer (Staples) Van Deusen, their daughter Lindsay Van Deusen; a brother, Brent Van Deusen and his wife Tracy (Holden) Van Deusen, all of West Lebanon, NY. There will be calling hours from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 29th at the Wenk Funeral Home in Chatham, NY. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 30th at the Gardner Earl Crematory and Chapel in Troy, NY. A reception for family and friends will be held at the Daley Inn at Crooked Lake following the funeral service. Interment will be at the Cemetery of the Evergreens in New Lebanon, NY at the convenience of the family. At Carolyn's request, donations may be made to the New Lebanon Town Library Newlebanon, N.Y. 12125 or Community Hospice of Rensselaer County 295 Valley View Blvd. Rensselaer, N.Y. 12144 in lieu of flowers. For on-line condolences visit wenkfuneralhome.com