[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 186 (Thursday, December 1, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1197-E1198]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING MRS. CAROLINE STOKES

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HALEY M. STEVENS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 1, 2022

  Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in memory of Mrs. Caroline 
Stokes of West Bloomfield, Michigan. Mrs. Stokes is remembered as a 
kind, strong, and loving person who will be truly missed by all who 
knew her. While it is difficult to bid farewell to Mrs. Stokes, it is 
an honor to commemorate her life today, and I thank my colleagues for 
helping pay their respects to this remarkable woman.
  Caroline was born on January 18, 1945, in Wyandotte, Michigan. She 
grew up in Wyandotte with her two beloved siblings, Irene Hartley and 
Ralph Romanowski, both of whom proceeded her in death. At an early age, 
Caroline found companionship in Karen Bolin, who was born and raised 
across the street. Karen, now of Indiana, was fortunate to have this 
friendship with Caroline that stretched over 77 years. Caroline was the 
cherished wife of Mr. Lance Stokes and beloved mother of Bonnie (Jason) 
Garcia, David (Angela) Medved, John (Shannon) Medved, Anna Medved, 
Tehophil Stokes, and Megan Stokes. In addition, she was a devoted 
``nana'' to Ricky, Caroline, Alec, Jonathon, Beonka, Evan, Aubree, 
Benjamin, Julia, Emelia, Jack, Alexander, and Ellie Grace, along with 
``grand-nana'' to Cora Lynn. Caroline valued the bond she shared with 
her family and was proud to be the caring aunt to Rose, Laura, 
Lorraine, and Douglas, and to her grandnephew, Jazz.

[[Page E1198]]

  Mrs. Stokes' primary profession was as an insurance agent, but she 
found great joy in pursuing her passion as a photographic artist, 
taking her on many new adventures in her adult life. Mr. and Mrs. 
Stokes conducted photo shoots across the United States, in Canada, and 
even Italy. Canada's ``wild and untamed beauty'' captivated Caroline, 
as she often expressed a desire to live in the beautiful country. The 
``McCutcheon Clan'' in Ontario were wonderful friends to the Stokes and 
considered them honorary McCutcheons, sharing many years of friendship.
  In addition to her knack for photography, Caroline was an avid 
reader, painter, and enthusiastic traveler. As a woman of faith, 
Caroline greatly cherished her travel to Assisi, as St. Francis of 
Assisi was her favorite saint. She was a music lover, enjoying a 
variety of genres and artists. Her family says that her music tastes 
ranged from Willie Nelson and Neil Diamond to opera, Pavarotti, Julio 
Iglesias, and Yanni as well as Soul and Polish music.
  Madam Speaker, Mrs. Caroline Stokes led by example, demonstrating the 
impact one person can make on the lives of so many by embodying the 
values that connect us. Caroline's devotion to her family and friends, 
along with her passion for travelling and the arts will continue to 
inspire those who knew her for a long time to come. I ask my colleagues 
to please join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Caroline Stokes.

                          ____________________