Carol Elaine Lemperes

Carol Elaine Lemperes, born in Seattle October 1, 1946, passed peacefully June 10^th, 2022, surrounded by her husband and two daughters. Carol was a devoted wife, loving mother, dedicated grandmother, sister, and a friend to many.

Carol began her life in Seattle, WA as the fourth and final child, born to Oscar Burdette Johnson and Anna Betty (Steffen) Johnson. Her childhood, in the Wallingford area of Seattle, consisted of raising dogs, sheep, goats, and chickens. For fun, her family built themed floats and participated in many parades through the years, winning trophies, bikes, and even some scholarships to the U of W.

Carol was popular during her years at Lincoln High School where she met Ron Sessa. During their time at WSU, she held a secretarial job and became a mom to Sabrina Stacy. Samantha Tiffany was born four years later while they were stationed with the Army in Fayetteville, NC. After Ron returned from Vietnam, they settled in Ferndale, WA for several years, until they divorced.

As a mom and aunt, Carol was adventurous and fun. She often took us swimming, hosted sleepovers, and took us on many road trips to various places, which often included shopping and laying in the sun. She enjoyed returning to Seattle to visit her mom and family as often as she could, where parties, shopping, & shenanigans often ensued.  

In 1981, Carol married her beloved, Nick Lemperes. They first met at Park Bowl. Nick brought more adventure, humor, and a deep love for her and her children to her life. They were married in Kauai, Hawaii, a moment they treasured together for 41 years. They enjoyed boating, camping, car shows, car races, occasional trips to Mexico and Hawaii, their dogs, but mostly being with family.

Being a fashionista, much of Carol’s work career was spent in various forms of retail clothing at Jay Jacobs, ValuMart, Leslies, and Payless in Bellingham. In 1989, she took a job in the vehicle licensing department for Whatcom County where she spent 23 years as a licensing & fleet specialist.

In 1995, Carol became “Grammie Carol.”  Five more grandkids followed, and she loved showering the kids with the perfect gift, teaching the kids to play Trouble, playing Cribbage with those who would indulge her, attending sporting events, dance recitals, and taking the girls shopping.

Carol is survived by her husband Nick, daughters Sabrina Risher (Jim) & Samantha Faris (Kevin). Grandchildren: Alyxandria Carter(27), Dane Faris(23), Kennedy Faris(22), Hudson Faris(18), Macey Risher(17), & Jamesyn Risher(14). Sister Sharon Larson (Jerry), Brother Steve Johnson. Brothers in law: Kon (Penni) Lemperes, George (Linda) Lemperes, & John Lemperes, as well as treasured nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Oscar & Anna Johnson, sister Judy Johnson Gray, grandparents, as well as aunts & uncles she had in her life.

Carol will be laid to rest at Ten Mile Cemetery. If you would like to join the family in honoring her, a celebration of her life will be held at 3:00 pm, Friday June 24^th, 2022.  VFW Hall – 7011 Hannegan Rd. Lynden, WA.