Obituary of Caren Elizabeth Hric

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Caren Elizabeth Hric (60) of Washington, NJ on July 31st, 2023.

Caren was born on July 7, 1963 to Donna Sumrell, then lovingly adopted by her parents, Betty and Claude Kranik, who provided her with unwavering love and support throughout her life. She grew up in Totowa, NJ alongside her brother Claude.

Caren's life was a testament to selflessness and compassion. As a devoted wife and mother, she found her greatest joy in nurturing and supporting her family. Her love extended beyond her immediate circle, as she actively reached out to others, embracing them as part of her extended family. Caren's kind and caring nature led her to take on various roles in the community, as a director of the Washington Swim Team and an active member of the Washington Alliance Church, where she loved to sing for the congregation.

Her dedication and compassion extended into her work as well, where she found fulfillment both as a school bus driver for Laidlaw and North Hunterdon High School and as a travel coordinator for Camp Merry Heart. Caren had a special way of connecting with the students and lovingly referred to them as her kids. She was passionate about crafting and cooking and she loved posting her daily creations to Facebook. Caren was also a graduate of Eastern Christian High School and a student of King's College.

As we grieve her loss, we also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the love she bestowed upon everyone fortunate enough to know her. The dragonfly symbolizes the ability to seize life's opportunities, express gratitude for your blessings, and fearlessly embrace new challenges. This embodies everything that is and was Caren and we find comfort in knowing that she passed on while living her life to the fullest extent.

Caren is survived by the love of her life, Jonathan Hric Sr., as well as by her three children, Jonathan, Jesse, and Victoria Hric. She also leaves behind her birth mother, Donna Sumrell, and her brother Claude Kranik. She is predeceased by her parents, Betty and Claude Kranik of Totowa, NJ.

A celebration of life will be held to honor Caren's memory. Family and friends are welcome for visiting on Tuesday, August 8th from 4-7 PM at Knoll-DeVoe Funeral Home, located at 142 West Washington Avenue, Washington, New Jersey, 07882. Knoll-DeVoe will also host a Service of Remembrance, officiated by Pastor Scott Wilson, to be held immediately following visiting hours at 7:00 PM. Coffee and dessert will be offered at the Washington Alliance Church following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Caren's honor may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (Click Here to Donate) or to the Wounded Warrior Project (Click Here to Donate)