Caryl Askins died peacefully at home on May 22, 2026, at the age of 96. She was born in Madison, Wisconsin to James and Jean Frederickson in 1930. Caryl graduated from Wisconsin High School and the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Art Education. She had four great loves: her husband, Paul; her children and their families; the bookstore; and her dogs.

Caryl met her husband, Paul, while working at the University Co-op. Shortly after starting their family, Paul opened Paul’s Books in 1954. Very soon after Paul’s death in 1975, Caryl entered the store, considered the situation, and knew she had to continue the business. Paul’s loyal employees and friends helped her find her footing. For the next 50 years, every day she greeted Paul’s picture above the desk, ran one of the longest running and beloved businesses on State Street, and helped innumerable employees find their footing in life.

Many would say the bookstore, a Madison institution, was her greatest achievement. But to Caryl, her greatest achievement was always her four children: Libby, Greg, David and Martha. Caryl and Paul loved to pile the kids and dogs into the station wagon and head to the “old farm” on the Mecan River and years later the “new farm” in Richland County. After Paul died, Caryl built “the cottage” in Door County, designed by her son, David, which became the setting for countless family memories over the years.

Saturday nights were spent with her grandchildren, having dinner, watching classic television, classic movies, and coloring. Gene Kelly, “I Love Lucy” and “Columbo” were favorites. On Sunday nights, the family would gather at Caryl’s for dinner. The menu often featured her signature crispy chicken. Her generosity was legendary and included taking each grandchild on a trip of their choosing, to locations including Hawaii, Boston, Washington D.C., San Diego, Whistler B.C., and New York City.

For Caryl, the concept of family was expansive. It included all the wonderful people who worked at the bookstore, loyal customers and other State Street merchants. She had an uncanny ability to make meaningful connections with people from all generations and walks of life, making long-term friendships from casual acquaintances. She was able to strike just the right balance of frankness, warmth and wit that made you feel lucky to be in her orbit.

A life-long dog lover, Caryl’s dogs were also members of the family. That love led to a 13-year tradition of traveling to New York City’s Madison Square Garden for the Westminster Dog Show.

If you knew Caryl, you know she was an amazing woman. She was a mom, a business owner, a talented artist and a great friend who will be missed by many. The family wishes to thank all of Caryl’s friends, neighbors, and caregivers who gave her love, comfort, and support.

Caryl is survived by her children Libby (Jim Bradley), Greg, (Joanna Dotts), David, and Martha (Steve Weiss); grandchildren Kate (Ben Schmitt), Claire, Will (Laura), Andrew, Maren and Sam; and four great-grandchildren, Nora, Benson, Frankie and Hugh; her brother, Dave Frederickson and his children; nephew Pug; and her beloved dog, Daisy. She was predeceased by her husband Paul, brother, Bob, and a multitude of wonderful dogs.

A celebration of life will be held at the Cress Funeral Home at 6021 University Avenue on June 30, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with spoken remarks beginning at 4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Wisconsin Veterinary School, The Clean Lakes Alliance, The Madison Reading Project, or a charity of your choosing.

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

6021 University Ave. Madison, WI

(608) 238-8406