Carey M. Durkin

Carey M. Durkin, 50, of Rhinelander, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026, surrounded by the people she loved most, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

If you knew Carey, you knew she had a big heart, a big personality, and a way of making just about any situation more fun. She was generous to a fault, fiercely loyal, always ready to help, and somehow knew when someone needed a little extra love, or a good laugh.

Born in Kenosha and raised in Rhinelander, Carey had an adventurous spirit. She attended college, was involved in gymnastics, volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, and lived in San Diego, where she danced at concerts, cheered at Rose Bowl games, and enjoyed sunshine and time on yachts with family and friends.

After returning home, Carey worked for many years as a nutritionist with the Head Start Program. She loved working with children and making a difference in their lives.

Carey’s happiest moments were spent with family and friends, ice fishing, swimming, watching Wisconsin athletics, celebrating holidays, and making memories. Her legendary Easter Bunny cake may very well outlive us all!

Carey could light up a room and make everyone feel welcome and loved. She gave her time, energy, heart, and plenty of laughter.

Carey is survived by her partner, Dan Denton; parents, Pamela and Steve Winchell; children, Joseph Durkin, Gaven Liebherr, sisters, Jody (Chris Gilman) and Kelly Durkin; nephews, Grant (Gretchen) Olson, Carter Olson, Logan Freund, Sylas Kotalik, Isabelle and McKenzie Gilman, Michelle and Dave Hines; and many loving family members and friends.

Carey’s time with us was far too short, but she filled it with love, laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

So go have a dance for Carey, cheer a little louder, drink a beer under the stars — and get a colonoscopy! That’s the way she lived, and the way she’d want us to remember her.

Remembrance & Visitation: Friday, September 18, 4 to 6 p.m. at the Hildebrand Funeral Home, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, September 19, 2 to 6 p.m. at Cabaret Cove, 1540 Pueblo Drive, Rhinelander.

Until we meet again Carey, we love you!

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.