Carolyn Frances Krinkie, 80, of The Villages, Florida, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, May 1, 2026. 

Carolyn was born on June 22, 1945, in St. Paul, MN to Harold and Frances Krinkie. She graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. While attending school, Carolyn worked for the Snelling Company, her family’s heating and air conditioning business in St. Paul. After graduating, she began her career with the City of Minneapolis and later with Hennepin County as a social worker, where she licensed foster homes. She retired as a Senior Social Worker. 

On May 12, 1990, she married the love of her life, Jeri Fink. Carolyn was a devoted member of Centennial United Methodist Church in Roseville, MN before relocating to Florida with her husband. There, New Life Christian Church became their church family. She was also a member of P.E.O. Chapter BO in St. Paul, MN. 

Carolyn embraced life in The Villages and loved its active lifestyle. She especially enjoyed dancing (which is how she met Jeri), playing golf, participating in The Villages Enrichment Academy classes, water aerobics, Mahjong with friends from Alden Bungalows and neighborhood activities. She hosted a Tuesday night Bible study with friends from New Life Christian Church and cherished Friday night game nights with dear friends. 

Before moving to Florida, Carolyn enjoyed Friday night dinners with friends from Centennial United Methodist Church, outings to the Guthrie Theater and playing bridge. In Florida, she loved attending the Orange Blossom Opry, spending time with friends, traveling, and enjoying quiet moments with her husband. Over the past year, she especially treasured swimming with Jeri in their pool. 

In Carolyn’s baby book, her mother wrote a blessing: “She has the ability to make friends.” Carolyn’s life was a beautiful fulfillment of that prophecy. She was known for her kindness, warmth, and genuine love for others. Many described her as “the sweetest person I have ever known.” 

She is survived by her loving husband and best friend, Jeri Fink; her brother, Robert Krinkie; nephews Brian Steeber (Patty) and Jason Krinkie (Katie); niece Lynn Homan (Joe); four grandnephews; and three grandnieces. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Frances (Bendixen) Krinkie; her brother, Donald Krinkie; her in-laws, Darwin and Veronica Fink, who loved her as a daughter; and Avelyn Hooker, who also held Carolyn dear. 

Carolyn is also remembered by her many cherished friends, including her retired colleagues from Hennepin County, friends from Centennial United Methodist Church, friends from New Life Christian Church, Jeri’s Monday snowbird golfing group, neighbors from Shoreview, MN, and her friends from Alden Bungalows. She truly loved her family and friends deeply. 

Her faith in Jesus Christ was central to her life. As she knew so well, “What a friend we have in Jesus.” 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, May 15, at 11:00 AM at New Life Christian Church, 4701 E County Rd 462, Wildwood, FL 34785. 

If so moved in lieu of flowers, please give memorials to New Life Christian Church.