Carolyn (Goetz/Nutter) Pillar, age 81, of Waunakee, WI passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026. She entered life as the eldest of six children on May 15, 1945, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Frances Lorraine (Kramer) Goetz, later Frances Curfew, and Marvin Hubert Goetz. When the siblings were placed for adoption, Carolyn and her two oldest siblings were adopted by the Nutter family, while the younger three were adopted separately. Though separated in childhood, they reunited later in life, restoring the family bond that had always belonged to them.

Carolyn graduated from Central High School in 1963, a milestone she cherished. She carried her creativity and resourcefulness throughout her life, becoming known for her exceptional baking talents, her love of crafts and sewing, and her skill as an accomplished seamstress. She especially enjoyed creating clothing and costumes, pouring her time, talent, and imagination into each piece she made. She also found joy in simple pleasures like playing bingo. Her home was always filled with the smell of something warm in the oven, handmade decorations, beautifully sewn creations, and the laughter of family gathered around her table.

Carolyn married Neil Hunt, with whom she welcomed four children. Their marriage later ended, and in time she met the love of her life, Russell Lester Pillar. Together, they blended their families—Russ bringing four children of his own—and added four more children to the home: three born to them and one adopted. Their family grew into a lively, loving household of twelve children, a source of joy and purpose throughout Carolyn’s life.

A woman of determination and creativity, Carolyn served as President of the formal wear and later bridal wear company she and Russ built together. She also worked in healthcare, holding various roles including Nursing Assistant, and eventually retired from the University of Wisconsin Hospital.

After Russ passed in 1995, Carolyn faced life with quiet courage, raising their two youngest children on her own. Though she stepped away from church activity for 30 years, she returned to her faith in 2013 and remained a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Carolyn is survived by her children: Michelle Pillar, Bruce (Michelle) Pillar, Doug (Ina) Pillar, Cynthia Pillar, David Pillar, Daniel Pillar, Kristoffer (Pamela) Pillar, Michael (Charity) Pillar, Cassandra (Dave) Fronczek, Kimberly (Matthew) Hennessey, and Nicole (Thomas) Wimmer; and her siblings: Jean (Stephen) Wright, Gary (Annette) Romer, Ron (Chris) Romer, and Larry (Christie) Romer; many grandchildren and several great‑grandchildren, nieces and nephews all of whom brought her immense joy.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Russell Lester Pillar; her brother, Kenneth Nutter; and her son, Duane Pillar.

Carolyn’s legacy is one of resilience, devotion, creativity, and family—woven through every life she touched.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at WINN-CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 2929 Peaceful Valley Parkway, Waunakee, WI. Family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service. She will be reunited with her husband at SUNSET MEMORY GARDENS, 7302 Mineral Point Rd., Madison. A brief gravesite dedication will take place from 12:45pm to 1:00pm for those who wish to attend. A Celebration of Life will follow at BUCK & HONEY'S of Waunakee from 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

Please share your memories of Carolyn by posting in her guestbook.

Winn-Cress Funeral Home

2929 Peaceful Valley Parkway, Waunakee

(608) 849-4513