BARBARA CARMAN

1923 - 2017

Barbara Stetson Carman (Bobbie) died on February 8, 2017. She was born to Philip Cushing Stetson and Dorothy Pillsbury Stetson on October 4, 1923 in Oakland California. She graduated from Anna Head School for Girls (now Head-Royce School) in Oakland, California; then Scripps College in Claremont, California. While in college she met Joseph L. Carman, III, whom she married on April 17, 1949. They remained married until his death in 2004. The couple settled in Tacoma where they established their home and family on American Lake. An intelligent, capable, and curious individual, Barbara was an active member of the Tacoma Garden Club, Garden Club of America, Tacoma Aloha Club, Seattle Sunset Club, and the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Washington. An avid gardener and plant collector, Barbara loved the Center for Urban Horticulture and established a lovely garden around her home. She extended this love by traveling the U.S. judging at Garden Club of America flower shows. She was also a remarkable seamstress and knitter, producing many notable costumes and sweaters. Barbara had a passion for reading and surrounded herself with an extensive book collection. Her true joy, however, was her family. She was a loving wife and raised four children, dedicating herself to their success in hobbies, educations, and lives. Whether patiently waiting during a skating practice or advocating at the local school for better reading lists, she thoughtfully parented her children and taught them to be imaginative, kind, contributing members of their communities. At her last birthday party, Barbara looked around at her children and grandchildren and remarked, with solid justification, "I'm just so proud of all this." Barbara is predeceased by her husband and granddaughter, Wendy Carman. She is survived by her sons Philip and Joe IV (wife Sally); daughters Lisa Rohrback (husband Brian) and Sally LeFeber (husband Bob); grandchildren Joe Carman V (wife Erin), AiPing Carman, Xinsu Carman, Jeffrey Rohrback, Loraine Rohrback, Suzanne Rohrback, Mindy Rohrback, Sam LeFeber and Lisa LeFeber; and great-grandchildren Ashley Carman and Grace Carman. There will be a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, Barbara asked that donations be sent to organizations of the donor's choice.