Carol M. Buyck

Carol M. Buyck, age 86 of Kinnelon, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on December 6, 2023.

Carol was born in Passaic, New Jersey to Frank and Anna Klaus.  She and her older brother, Cliff, lived in Paramus, Rochelle Park, and eventually Oradell. She attended Dwight Morrow High School in Englewood, New Jersey.

After graduation, Carol continued her education at Paterson State College. Carol’s further education was briefly halted when she took up a position at Collard’s Furniture Store as a decorator. During this time, she was set up on a blind date with Robert Buyck.  The two married in April of 1959 before moving to their new home in Bloomingdale and then finally settling down in Paramus in 1970, where they raised their two children, Suzanne and Jon. 

Carol returned to night school at William Paterson College with her neighbor and dear friend, Linda Shortman.  Carol was a lifelong learner and educator who went on to earn her master’s degree in early childhood education. While she initially dreamed of opening a nursery school, she found her passion teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in the Wanaque school district for the next 30 years.

Carol’s inquisitive nature led her to become a world traveler with her good friend Christine Lynch.  They visited most of Europe, South America, Cuba, China, Russia and explored other countries and cultures. Carol shared her passion with her grandchildren by accompanying them on trips to various countries. 

Carol loved dogs, being outdoors, entertaining, and good times with her many friends. She was an expert gardener and loved to “play in the dirt”.  Carol’s other interests included opera, movies, Broadway shows, and dinners in New York City with her grandchildren. Carol loved the slot machines in Atlantic City, playing Bunco with her friends, and a nice Cabernet.

Carol’s endless energy and zest for life were evident to everyone around her.  She touched many lives over the years and was blessed to have many dear friends. Her kindness, generosity, and loving personality will be greatly missed and always remembered. 

Above all else, family was the most important aspect of Carol’s life. She adored her family and loved sharing her life with them. She was the best mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother anyone could ever want. Her strong, independent, and often stubborn mindset gave her the drive to live an incredible life. 

Carol was the cherished mother of: Suzanne Russo and husband Michael of Glen Rock, Jon Buyck and wife Arlene of Rochelle Park; beloved grandmother of: Matthew Russo and wife Tierney, Katherine Harper and husband Seth, Christina Russo, Jonathan Buyck, and Nicholas Buyck; great-grandmother of: Theodore Harper and Caroline Russo. Also survived by brother Frank Klaus and wife Kathy, nephew Christopher, and niece Cortney. 

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In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Carol’s name are asked to consider:

The Humane Society of the United States

Or

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959