It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Caryn Lynn Columbus, 53, after a prolonged illness. Caryn died on Friday, June 27th, 2025, in Amery, Wisconsin at home with her friend Andrew Gunter by her side.

Caryn was born on October 22, 1971, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. She is survived by her father, Arthur (Barb) Brown, sisters Connie (Chris) Smith, Cinda (Doug) Mijal, her niece Jayden Mijal, nephew Austin (Kaylah) Smith, friend and considered a sister; Anne (Don) Wormmood, along with her stepchildren Joe (Jennie) Columbus, Melissa (Ryan) Columbus, and Jon Columbus. Caryn was preceded in death by her mother Kathryn Brown and her husband Joel Columbus.

The family would also like to say a special Thank You to Bill Nowitzke, Caryn’s roommate, for all his help these last four years.

Caryn met Joel in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1993 and were married on January 14, 2000, on a beach in Cozumel, Mexico. They loved Cozumel so much that they made it their annual pilgrimage to commemorate their vows. Caryn and Joel (a musician in his own right) were avid music fans who traveled far and wide to attend various concerts and music events.

Caryn loved gardening, watching birds and squirrels and especially loved hummingbirds. During the fall, she loved taking road trips to northern Minnesota and Wisconsin to take pictures of the beautiful fall colors. Although not an avid cook, Caryn had perfected her mom’s specialty cheesecake which she made on a regular basis. She had a true love of all animals, both wild and tame. In particular, she adored her two Dalmatians, Gorby and Winnie, and her beloved cat, Kitty.

We will be holding a Celebration of Life for Caryn at Gorski’s in Mosinee, Wisconsin on August 16, 2025, from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Please join us to share memories and celebrate her life.

Last Update: Jul 09, 2025 7:09 am CDT