Caryl Joan Niehaus, born on April 3, 1926, in Kewanee, Illinois, peacefully passed away on April 4, 2024, in Williamsburg, VA. She was 98 years old.
Caryl led a life rich in love and service to her community. She found joy in spending time with family and friends, traveling the world, immersing herself in literature, attending live performances, and playing with her cherished dogs.
She dedicated herself to various organizations throughout her life. As a member of the Board of Governors of the Women’s Guild New Orleans Opera Association from 1971-2007, she served in many leadership positions, including president. She was particularly proud to be the first president of the Guild to be reelected to a second term. She was on the Board of Directors of ECI, Inc., serving as Corporate Secretary and Business Manager 1979-1993.
While serving on the Board of Directors of the Institute for Human Understanding 1979-91, she co-chaired the luncheon featuring Audrey Hepburn as guest speaker. Mrs. Niehaus chaired the 3 day opening celebration of the King Tutankhamun exhibit at the New Orleans Museum of Art in 1977. Other organizations she served include the New Orleans Philharmonic Symphony Society, Goodwill (GIVS), the France-Louisiana Festival, Jefferson Performing Arts Society, East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie Women’s Club, and serving on the Worship Committee for John Calvin Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Niehaus was honored by many organizations, including Volunteers of America, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation of LA, LSU Medical Center, New Orleans Museum of Art, Epilepsy Foundation of SE Louisiana, and Cancer Crusaders. In addition she received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Mayor of New Orleans, and was named an Honorary Ambassador of Good Will of the State of Louisiana. In recognition of her exceptional leadership and philanthropic contributions, Caryl was honored as a “Point of Light” by President George H. W. Bush.
Caryl’s academic achievements were noteworthy, as she graduated as valedictorian from Washington, Illinois Community High School in 1944 and went on to earn a four-year scholarship to the University of Illinois.
Caryl is preceded in death by her parents, Emily Carlson Gramer and Charles Gramer, and her loving husband of 68 years, Owen Q. Niehaus. She is survived by her daughter Christine Niehaus and son-in-law Harris Simon.
A memorial service to celebrate Caryl’s life will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 3:00 PM at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 4897 Longhill Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Caryl’s name to the American Cancer Society.
May Caryl Joan Niehaus rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the memories of a life well-lived and the love of those who cherished her.
