Carol was born on September 30, 1944, in Chicago, IL, to Arnold and Barbara (nee’ Kelly) Haig. Carol moved to Dixon, IL, in the 1940’s so her mother, Barbara, could be close to her parents and siblings when Arnold was away serving in World War II. Carol was raised in a doubly musically gifted family (of Irish/Mother; Norwegian/Father heritage) where faith and tradition served as her foundation. She grew up singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments alongside her immediate and extended family at frequent family gatherings. During her younger days, she participated in and held the lead in musicals and was a member of a waterskiing performance group.
Carol is remembered by her witty personality and loving and generous nature. She was known for hosting and cooking elaborate traditional holiday dinners in her home, where the entire family often congregated for days. She embodied a youthful zest for life and was a living example that age is truly just a number. She was always looking for an excuse to have a party and bring loved ones together. The words “I love you” came easily to her. She is adored by her four children and her grandchildren, who lovingly refer to her as Nana. She had a passion and knack for decorating her home and creating a delightful ambiance in every event she hosted. Driven and hardworking, Carol also excelled in her career as a District Sales Manager for Honda Finance, where she was awarded the President’s Club and other employee award accolades.
Carol is survived by her three children, Ryan (Michelle) Hager, Thomas (Kathy) Hager, and Kristin Deyle; sisters Judi Weigle and Patricia (Bob) Balayti; aunt Sister Josette Kelly BVM; son-in-law Frank Gazzolo; ten grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Larry Banas, daughter Elizabeth Gazzolo, sister Diane Fahey, and parents Arnold and Barbara Haig.
The visitation will take place on Saturday, February 7, at Sacred Heart Church in Sterling from 11 am to 1 pm, followed by the Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 PM. A celebration of life event is planned from 3 pm to 6 pm at Mad Water Saloon in Dixon, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or the Sterling Family Moose in Sterling, IL.
One of Carol’s favorite quotes was “No day is over if it makes a memory.” Carol left us with so many wonderful memories we will hold close in our hearts forever.
