In Memory of Michelle Carlin: 1966 – 2021
A very special The Faces of Big Lake wants to honor a wonderful woman from our community. Michelle Carlin passed away last year due to Covid related complications. And while she is no longer with us, her memory continues to live on with so many. Recently a city bench at the Freedom Rock was dedicated to Michelle on behalf of the Big Lake Girls Scouts – something she was very involved with for over 12 years.
Michelle was born in Princeton and graduated from Big Lake High School. She attended Anoka Technical College with a degree in Early Childhood Education. In 1996, she married Patrick Carlin and they were blessed with their daughter, Mary. For over 30 years, Michelle was a dedicated Daycare Provider and was a member of the Day Care Association. So many residents have shared their memories and love of Michelle. One parent said, “Her love for the children was apparent and unconditional. She cared for them as her own.” Another daycare family said, “Michelle always had room on her lap for one more.” Taking care of children was her true passion and she did this with love and patience.
Aside from her work as a daycare provider, Michelle was very involved with Big Lake Girl Scouts. She was the Recruitment Leader and passionate about making all girls feel welcome. She was a Girl Scout leader for over 12 years and “embodied the spirit of Girl Scouts.” One youth said, “she was always there to help with a smile on her face.”
Daycare and Girl Scouts certainly kept Michelle very busy. But her selflessness didn’t end there. She spent hours organizing the children’s liturgy at her church. She also was active and enjoyed volunteering with Feed my Starving Children, packing meals for families in need all over the world. If that wasn’t enough, Michelle was always planning and organizing donations for Toys for Tots each year.
Though Michelle’s time with us here on Earth was far too short, she left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her energy and compassion were contagious and she was a true mentor to so many. It is people like Michelle who make our community such a beautiful place. Because she was truly a beautiful woman with a heart of gold. Michelle Carlin will continue to be remembered and missed for all the years to come.
