Katherine Tampas

1929 - 2016

After a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease, Katherine Tampas left this world peacefully on October 3, 2016. She was born to Johann and Maria Schonegger on April 28, 1929, in Furth, Germany. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Christy Tampas and grandson, Justin Tampas. Katherine is survived by her five children, Chris (Roberta), Pete (Sharon), Diana (Mike), Elaine and John (Trish). She is also survived by her six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. And, she leaves behind her endearing friend, Tony Nolasco. She met her husband, Christy, in Germany during his service with the Army Air Corps in 1946. He must have found her beaming smile and natural beauty irresistible. After coming to the US and starting her new life in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Katherine taught herself English by watching TV and reading comic books and the newspaper funny pages. She never let any challenge, or her lack of education get in the way of succeeding at many things. She retired, with many awards, after 18 years with the J.C. Penney Company as a sales associate in furniture and interior decorating. In her retirement, she volunteered with The Senior Gleaners for 15 years. She was a creative, crafty, artistic and passionate woman with many interests. She was as comfortable with a hammer and shovel as she was with a pair of scissors. She loved to cook, entertain family and friends, and travel. She would return to Germany many, many times to visit friends and relatives in her old country. Her passion for life was infectious. A special thank you to The Splendor of Carmichael for the loving and compassionate care they gave Mom in her last years of life. In keeping with Katherine's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Auf wiedersehen, Mom; 'til we meet again.