Carolynne (Tollefson) Canoll

Newport, RI - Carolynne (Tollefson) Canoll, 57, of Newport, died Wednesday, August 27, 2014. Born in Newport, RI on December 9, 1956, she was predeceased by her former husband Charles C. Canoll III, her mother Elizabeth "Betty" L. Egan, and her father George A. Tollefson, MD.For the past nine years, Carolynne worked at Raytheon Corporation in Portsmouth as a Production Specialist, concentrating on intricate cabling for submarines. She developed these skills at a young age through her love of the creative arts, especially sewing, dress design, loom weaving and jewelry making. Carolynne attended Cluny School; Newport Public Schools, graduating in the 1974 class of Rogers High School; and the University of Rhode Island, attaining a Bachelor of Science in Fashion, Merchandising and Design in 1982. She received that year's book award. After her studies, she worked in jewelry design for a manufacturer and retailers. As a long-time employee of Salas's Restaurant, Carolynne loved the social aspect of the business, becoming close friends with the owners. And to add some adventure, she became a shipmate on a lobster boat for a few seasons, knowing she could breakfast on the day's succulent bounty.At that time, she observed the deleterious effect of pollution on our waters first-hand, prompting her to advocate tirelessly for Mount Hope Bay, Narragansett Bay and surrounding waterways. She wrote and researched extensively on the subject, testifying for their preservation. As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, Carolynne could be found pitching a tent at state parks, enjoying the Cliff Walk, sunbathing at Second Beach, and finding "sea treasures" around the Ocean Drive. She found beauty in all parts of the natural world. A devout Catholic, she attended Mass at Salve Regina's Chapel and St. Joseph's Church. She was a member of the Elks Club. Carolynne was a gentle person with a very solid sense of who she was. She had a talent for making people laugh. She worked for the welfare of others. Carolynne loved everybody, but her greatest love was reserved for the light of her life and her only child, her son Charlie. Those who mourn the loss of Carolynne include her son Charles Cunningham Canoll IV and her Dad John J. Egan Jr., both of Newport, RI; her six siblings: Elizabeth T. Portner (Charles) of Virginia Beach, VA, Georganne Tollefson (Daniel Roten) of Middletown, RI, George Tollefson (Carolyn) of Newport, James Tollefson (Stacy) of Middletown, John J. Egan III and Ryan G. Egan, both of Newport; as well as 13 nieces and nephews, one great nephew, her extended family and close friends.Her Memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2014 at 12pm in St. Josephs Church, Broadway, Newport, RI.Donations in her memory may be made to SaveBay.org/donate. Service SEP 27. 12:00 PM St. Josephs Church Mann Avenue at Broadway Newport, RI, US