Blue Hill Remembers Youngest Crash Victim

By: Kim Eiten - Email

Updated: Wed 5:35 AM, Sep 12, 2012

"Caroline was a light for her family, her friends and her community," -Rev. Janae Bauer

Blue Hill remembered the youngest victim of the semi/bus crash Tuesday.

Hundreds packed United Methodist Church Tuesday morning to remember 10-year-old Caroline Thallman.

Those who knew her said Caroline lived by one song: "I Hope You Dance."

Now, it plays in her remembrance.

"She had a love for dance, a passion for fashion, a devotion to her family and friends and a yearn to travel to big cities, a desire to express her creativity and intelligence and the occasional hunger for chocolate," her aunt Reverend Janae Bauer said.

She said the little girl with the big personality made a lasting impact in her ten short years.

"Caroline was a light for her family, her friends and her community," Bauer said.

It's an impact felt by an entire community coping with a loss spanning generations.

"No one can fill the space left by your sister's move from Earth to heaven," Reverend Steve Marsh said.

It's a hurdle for Blue Hill to overcome as the town says goodbye, and moves forward while never forgetting.

"Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening," Bauer said, reciting Caroline's motto. "Live each day as if it's your last."