Obituary of Carole D. Rubenstein

NORWALK, CONN Carole Rubenstein, 87, of Norwalk, CT, passed away on June 25 at her family home in Norwalk after a long illness with dementia. Carole lived in Norwalk for 62 years and was a fixture in Westport, being well known due to one of her proudest accomplishments - her 35 year tenure at the Westport Nature Center, now Earthplace. There, she was a pioneer in the early childhood education field, helping to start one of the first nature-based preschool programs that incorporated learning with nature. She served as co-director, director and teacher and was beloved by many children and their parents. She also created and implemented all other children's programs at the Center. Hardly a shopping trip around town, or even a trip out of state, could be had without Carole running into one of her former students. Post-retirement, Carole was very active in Westport Sunrise Rotary for over 25 years, serving on the Charitable Giving Committee. As a Sunshine Lady she welcomed new members and reached out to current and former Rotarians for birthday wishes and in times of need. She never passed up an opportunity to sell tickets to the annual Great Duck Race and also loved to give a Happy Dollar at the weekly club meetings. She also belonged to Y's Women in Westport, helping to plan the annual holiday luncheon. Another volunteer activity was at Norwalk Hospital for many years. Throughout her life, Carole travelled extensively with her husband Bob, including 20 trips to Hawaii. Carole is survived by her husband of 66 years, Bob, as well as son Andy (May) Rubenstein of VA, daughter Sue (Joe) Collin of Norwalk, brother Robert (Pat) Levin of NY, and step-granddaughter Apisara 'Ping' Deejai of NY. Private funeral services will be held at Willowbrook Cemetery. Shiva will be observed at the home of Bob Rubenstein in Norwalk on Tuesday, July 2, from 4-7 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Westport Sunrise Rotary and Alzheimer's Association. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Carole's aide and friend, Sandra Spence. The Abraham Green & Son Funeral Home of Fairfield is directing the arrangements.