Carol Joan Reitan, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 7, 2023. She faced endometrial cancer with unwavering courage and grace, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was born in 1943, raised in Kent, WA, and graduated from Kent-Meridian High School in 1961.
Carol’s memory will forever be cherished by her surviving family members, including her husband of 60 years, Eric, her children Todd Reitan (Dawn) and Eric “Rick/Red” Reitan (Anita), her grandchildren, Noah and Logan Reitan, Jessie and Julia Reitan, and her sister, Joyce Nelson and brother, Brad Neuman (Corry). She was preceded in death by her parents Otto and Johanna Neumann and her brothers, Richard and Doug Neumann. She will be missed immensely by her countless friends and family who were touched by her presence.
Carol and Eric met at National Bank in Kent, when she refused to bend the rules for this “dude.” They spent the next 60 years “joined at the hip” through ownership of Kent Floral shop, to exploring various golf courses on the West Coast and Hawaii, to finally settling into the relished role of “Grandma”. Carol was happiest when she was spending time with her family or in her yard. She could often be heard saying, “We have the BEST family!” with a huge smile. Her grandchildren were her world. She graced them with endless kisses/hugs, cookies, quilts. As her grandchildren grew, she was their biggest fan at various sporting events. Carol was seldom seen without her trusty camera. Hawaii was a place of love and relaxation for her.
Carol kept active through many activities including walking downtown Kent for their favorite Starbucks beverage, golfing local courses with friends and family, or plucking pesky weeds out of her picturesque backyard.
As we mourn the loss of Carol, let us also celebrate her remarkable life and the profound impact she had on us all. Carol will forever be a source of inspiration, reminding us to see the best in people and our surroundings, savor the time with family, remember that it is always a good time for chocolate, be free with your laugh and your love. May she rest in peace, forever surrounded by the love and gratitude of those she touched along her beautiful journey.
Please come remember and honor Carol at a Celebration of Life Open House at Kent Senior Center (600 E Smith St, Kent, WA 98030), December 10th from 1-4:00 pm. Remembrances in Carol’s name can be made to Kent Historical Society.
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