Caroline D. Lautsch “Auntie Caroline”, 98, of Charleroi, passed away peacefully on April 16th, 2026 at the Residence at Hilltop. Born in Charleroi on June 16th, 1927, Caroline was the daughter of the late Fredrico and Anna (Esposito) Palumbo.
Caroline graduated from Charleroi High School class of 1945, and on June 7th, 1947 married the love of her life John Charles Lautsch Jr. Auntie Caroline worked through the Charleroi Area School district for many years, beginning at Fallowfield School until her retirement from the Charleroi Area High School’s current location. Following retirement she was a longtime employee for Baker’s Pub, worked for her local church for many years and was the unofficial baker for every family function and weddings.
Caroline was an active member for Mother of Sorrows Church (Saint Andrew the Apostle – Charleroi Site) for many years and was involved in many clubs and activities within the church. She volunteered her life to her community, Auntie Caroline was a mother to everyone who knew her and will be missed by many.
Surviving to cherish Caroline’s memory; her daughter Roslyn (Thomas) Simonin Jenkins, of Fallowfield, son John (Sandy) F. Lautsch, of Arkansas and son Robert (Marita)Victor Lautsch, of Florida. Her grandchildren; Jason Simonin, Nicole (Chris)West, Bradley (Britney) Lautsch, Lisa (Michael) Lautsch Doroba, and Victoria(Zachary) Lautsch Scudlark. Great-grandchildren, Braelyn Lautsch, Bentleigh Lautsch, Natalie Doroba and Connor Doroba. Along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her parents Caroline is preceded in death by her husband John Charles Lautsch Jr., grandson Brandon Lautsch, son-in-law Joseph “Jay” Simonin. Her three brothers Carmen Palumbo, Albert V. Palumbo and Edward Palumbo. Cousins Victor Benedetti and Robert “Snuffy” Benedetti.
The family would like to thank the following people at the Residents at Hilltop. Kim, Katrina H., Judy, Susan, Katrina W. (Roz' personal life line), Sao and Debbie . OSPTA Hospice: Dr. Rhonda Wingrove, Kaitlyn, Angel, Kara and Pastor Jeff Marton. OSPTA Home Care Nurse Shellie Cotton Smith (our special angel). And special thank you to all the aides who helped take care of mom.
Per Caroline’s wishes, all services were held privately for the immediate family and private interment was held at Belle Vernon Cemetery. Donations may be made in Caroline’s name to the “Stuff the Bus”, attn. Thomas Nutting, 705 11th, Street Charleroi PA 15022.Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hogan-melenyzer.com
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