Rebel, Carol L.; 75, formerly of Lake Orion

Carol Lee Larus Rebel, 75, of St. Augustine, Florida and formerly of Lake Orion, died peacefully the morning of July 17, 2017. Carol was born March 16, 1942 in Macon County Illinois at St. Mary’s Hospital to the late Eleanor Rogers. She was raised by Ellie and the late Forrest “Buck” Rogers in Decatur Illinois, graduating from Eisenhower High School. On December 9, 1961, she married the love of her life Gary Rebel. The love lasted 55 years, even though she was a fan of the Chicago Bears, and he loved the
Detroit Lions.

Throughout her life, Carol had many jobs. She started as a Secretary to attorney Helmer Landholt in Decatur, Illinois. In addition, she was the Rebel family matriarch, ruling with a wooden spoon over family, numerous dogs, neighborhood kids, and anybody else who popped in the door in Taylor, Redford or Lake Orion, Michigan. She was a secretary at Lake Orion High School, and often tended bar at North Hill Lanes in Rochester before retiring to Big Bradford Lake in Waters, Michigan with Gary in 1990.
Carol was a conversationalist- she loved to talk on the phone, as evidenced by her hiding the phone bills from Gary! She also was a tremendous cook as evidenced by her world famous sloppy Joes, fried perch and city chicken. Nobody cooked like Carol! She learned the Rebel way of cooking from Marie
Kroll and Helen Rebel. In a pinch, she could whip up pickled bologna, cheese and crackers. Carol and Gary were part of the Keatington Couples Bowling League. She was a mainstay for the Lake Orion Girls softball league in the 70’s. Her favorite times were at the cabin with her grandchildren.
Carol was “Mom” for the world. The Rebel home always had an open door, and all were welcome! She loved to sing-especially Elvis, and dance to Proud Mary. Playing the piano and letting her grandchildren play with her was a joy! At the lake, she’d jump at the chance to take her children and grandchildren out on the pontoon boat (The SS Collapso) with drinks and food for all! At campfires, she could be counted on for s’mores and schnapps! She made the cabin a home for all, and all were at home there.

Carol is survived by Gary Rebel, her husband of 55 years. Loving mother of Bonnie (Greg) Jordan, Connie (Frank) Borovsky and Corbyn Rebel. Fun-loving grandma of Corey Jordan, Mary Jordan, Alexander Borovsky, Nicholas Borovsky, and Cody Borovsky. Carol’s celebration of life will be private. Donations to Northeast Florida Community Hospice Foundation Department, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 are appreciated.

Thank you to the staff at Silver Treasures and Community Hospice for helping Carol with her graceful exit. In addition, the next time you are out among friends; raise a glass to Carol-she left the party too soon.

One response to “Rebel, Carol L.; 75, formerly of Lake Orion”

  1. Dearest Corbyn, I heard of your wonderful Mother’s passing and wanted to tell you how sorry I am. Meeting your Mom was an incredible experience. Going up to Waters, I was welcomed with open arms, hugs and a love only a special person could give. I loved your mom’s free spirit attitude, conversations and stories. It may have been a short meeting but she will be remembered by me. Please hug your Dad for me and I pray you all find peace in your hearts, knowing she’s not far and one day you will see her again.

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