I’m sorry about your friend. It’s sad no matter when you hear someone has gone.
I saw a Kraft video for melting caramels for dipping apples. They do it right on the stovetop, add 2 tablespoons of water (I'd at least use milk), and stir constantly until melted. If it's not runny enough to pour over chips, you can probably add a little more milk and reheat very carefully. I will probably do over hot water.
There are some good comments on Yaelle's version of Carmelitas. One thought you should melt the butter to ALMOST melted for better crust and topping AND not press the crust in too hard or it's hard to get out of the pan. Another thought using quick oats instead of regular would be better. I can put my regular in the food processor but hate the extra step and time and am NOT going to buy quick oats.