Carole S. Greenawald

Carole Sue (Behn) Greenawald passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. She was born on April 9, 1943, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, to John and Twila “Eileen” (Day) Behn. She had two older brothers, John and Parke. The family later moved to Monticello, Iowa, where Carole spent the rest of her childhood. It was there that she met Thomas Dale Greenawald, whom she would marry on June 5, 1965. During those same years, she also formed a lifelong friendship with Marlene Wynn Behn—who would later become her sister-in-law and remain one of her dearest friends.

Carole graduated from Monticello High School, then went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Iowa. She later completed a master’s degree in Education at DePauw University and earned her Educational Administrative License from Indiana State University.

Carole spent over 40 years in public education. She began her career teaching upper elementary students in Dubuque and Pella, Iowa. After moving to Greencastle, Indiana, she continued teaching elementary school before transferring to Greencastle Middle School, where she taught math, coached girls’ basketball, and later served as principal. Following retirement, Carole began a second career in the travel industry, working for 20 years with the Grueninger Travel Group, planning and escorting trips around the world.

She was an active member of her community, involved in organizations such as Tri Kappa, Babe Ruth Baseball, PTO, and the Indiana State Teachers Association.

Carole had many passions: dinners with friends, Friday gatherings, going to the movies, traveling, visiting the lake, hitting the casino, making her much-loved “Grandmama noodles,” caring for her beloved dogs—Noelle, Maggie, and her most recent canine companion, Bailey—tending to her home and yard, celebrating the holidays (especially Christmas), and cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and Indiana Fever.

But more than anything, Carole loved her family. Her greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother. She was the proud and loving mom of Erika Grueninger (Mike), Michael Greenawald (Kathy), and Meredith McMahan (Mike), and the cherished Grandmama of Michael, Max, Ella, Sophia, Cameron, Anna, Harper, Finn, and Reid. Whether in the stands, at school events, or on the sidelines, Carole was always there—nervous, excited, cheering (sometimes yelling at referees or coaches), and celebrating every milestone, big or small. She offered unwavering support, wise advice, and love that never wavered. She truly was the best Mom and Grandmama ever.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, John and Twila “Eileen” Behn; her brothers, John and Parke Behn; and her nephew, Brock Behn.

She is also survived by her dear extended family, including Marlene Behn, Brigadier General Beth Behn, Dr. Julie Shappy, and their children, Parke and Twila Shappy-Behn. Shelly (Ron) Pennington, Scott (JoEllen) Behn, John (Denise) Behn, and their families are also among them. Their love and presence brought great joy and strength to her life.

Services will be held on Sunday, August 10, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greencastle, Indiana. A visitation will precede the service, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Almost Home Humane Society, Putnam County Comprehensive Services, or DePauw University.