Carolyn Pillai

Carolyn Pillai, 82, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Friday, September 27, 2024 at Miller's Health and Rehab in La Porte, IN.

She was born November 16, 1941 in Little Rock, Arkansas, the daughter of George Alfred Sweder and Eunice (Williams) Sweder.

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Carolyn graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Augustana College, then pursued a Master’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, followed by a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Governors State University. In June 1966, Carolyn married the love of her life, Janardanan Pillai whom she met at the U of IL, but preceded her in death by 21 years. She had two official weddings; one in Trivandrum, Kerala, India and one in Grand Rapids, MI. She lived most of her adult life in Flossmoor, IL where she and her husband raised their two sons. She has been a resident of La Porte, IN for the past 7 years. Carolyn carved out a distinguished career as a clinical microbiologist at the University of Chicago Hospitals. She later served as a counselor in Tinley Park, IL sharing her expertise and compassion with those in need. 

Carolyn was an active member of the Presbyterian Church of La Porte. She served as an Elder on Session, started the Merry Widows Club, eagerly participated in Book Club, and sang in the choir. She loved playing cards and often brought joy and connection to her friends. Carolyn enjoyed going to the casinos, eating out with friends, and great conversation. She loved reading and exploring new worlds through literature. Carolyn's life was also enriched by her love of nature and the arts. She found great pleasure in activities such as fishing, and spending time at a cabin. She loved being near water and had a special love for Lake Superior where she spent many of her summers during her childhood. Carolyn was an avid gardener, delighted in tending to her plants, particularly enjoying the visits from squirrels that frequented her garden. Her artistic inclinations were expressed through painting and a keen interest in all things related to art. She loved animals, especially cats, and never met a fish she didn’t want to keep. She cherished moments spent with her friends and family, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love.

She is survived by her two sons, Keshav (Sue) Pillai of Merrill, WI, and Krishna (Carla) Pillai of LaPorte, IN; brother, Thomas Sweder of Brighton, MI; sister, Mary (Larry) Kallio of Grand Haven, MI; nine grandchildren, Phoebe Osterhus, Aliyah Pillai, Sarita Pillai, Tanaya Pillai, Janan Pillai, Jaiden Pillai, Ravi Pillai, Orion Pillai, Vijay Pillai; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Along with her husband of 37 years, Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Richard Sweder, and sister-in-law Kathleen Sweder.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN where the family will receive friends Friday, October 4 from 5 pm until 8 pm at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, October 5 at 10 am at The Presbyterian Church of La Porte 307 Kingsbury Ave. La Porte, IN 46350 with Rev. Jane Anabe officiating. Cremation to take place at a later date with subsequent placement in the columbarium of The Presbyterian Church of La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Presbyterian Church of LaPorte, 307 Kingsbury Ave, La Porte, IN 46350.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com