Carole Ann Kraemer

Paradise Valley - Carole Ann Kraemer of Paradise Valley, Arizona passed away after a courageous three year battle with Cancer. Carole was born September 30, 1945 in Atlantic City, New Jersey to Jack and Almeda Dawson.

Carole grew up in Northern New Jersey before attending college in Virginia. Carole graduated from Longwood University in 1967 as a dean's list student with a BA in English. Prior to becoming a full time loving and dedicated mother, Carole worked as a social worker and a high school English teacher.

In 1962 Carole met her husband, Rich, on a blind date arranged by mutual friends. They married June 18, 1966, raising their three children, Richard, Ashley, and Jeffrey, in a loving marriage of 57 years. Moving many times in their early marriage, they settled in Tempe in 1975. They moved to Paradise Valley in 2000.

Carole had many interests and was active in supporting them. Her love of gardening, theater and literature led her to serve many years on the boards of the Desert Botanical Gardens and the Arizona Theater Company. Carole was an active member of the Arizona Literary Society and a supporter of many local charitable organizations. Carole was a caring and compassionate person.

Carole's greatest pleasure was being with family and friends. Whether it was traveling around the world, at home, in Pinetop or Vail, Colorado, Carole was always happy, energetic and focussed on making sure those around her were enjoying themselves. Carole was selfless.

Carole is survived by her three children, Richard, Ashley and Jeffrey, as well as her three grandchildren, Kennan, Liam and Brynley McAndrews. She also leaves her sister Robin Reinhardt.

A celebration of Carole will be held at the Desert Botanical Gardens on January 10 at 5:00 p.m. in Wilson Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be directed to the Carole Kraemer Memorial Fund at the Desert Botanical Gardens.