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Ferne Carpousis Obituary
CARPOUSIS FERNE C. CARPOUSIS (Age 59) On February 10, 2008. Ferne C. Carpousis of Washington, DC,beloved wife of Eric N. Hompe; beloved daughter of Mary Carpousis and the late Dr. Aris Carpousis and loving niece of Becky Heon. Loving sister of Pamela (Richard), Aris, Jr., Dean (Jane), Cathy (John) and Gregory (Mary). Also survived by nine devoted nieces and nephews who will always remember her beauty and spirit. Friends and relatives are invited to call at JOSEPH GAWLERS SONS INC., 5130 Wisconsin Ave NW (corner of Harrison St) Washington, DC on Saturday, February 16, from 1 to 3 p.m. with prayers at 2:30. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to The National Alliance of Mental Illness at www.nami.org .
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Memories and Condolences
for Ferne Carpousis
Sponsored by Joan Braderman.
Joan Braderman
January 19, 2017
Para Fereniki 2/16/08
If Ferne had been stage-managing this event, it would have looked a lot more like the Cirque de Soleil. She would have stage managed us all to our wits end-----but beautifully, absolutely beautifully and with her famous determination, energy, her six inch heels, dressed to the nines, and that sparkly twinkle, burning in her eye. She would say, out of my way; I've got a party to plan.
Ferne was the best friend a girl could have and WAS my "best friend" since we met at Gordon Junior High School in 1960. Mrs. Riefsnyder, our 7th grade homeroom teacher asked us to stay after school and write the names on the report cards because we both had such similar, and such beeoootiful handwriting. We've been tight ever since, year in, year out, as the decades added up, -----in the very greatest of times and the terrible ones, in trouble, (as her family, no doubt, remembers,) and in joy. We danced together, we marched together, picked hundreds of tomatoes together, exercised together. Together, we traveled, wrote a pile of correspondence the size of The Encyclopeadia Brittanica and burnt up the telephone lines around the world, for the last 45 + years.
She flew to whatever hospital I was in, through my seemingly endless medical disasters and she would comb my hair, when no one else would touch it, because, after all, ----a girl might as well look her best. Then when Bob and I finally got married in the 90's, she and Eric came to the party and at a moment of high drama, cutting the cake, I think, Ferne fluffed my hair again, this time, placing a set of black and white mouse ears on my head, a dainty veil attached , as befitting, she clearly thought, an irreverent, middle-aged bride. It meant everything that like my Ma, she was proud of me. Could there be a truer friend??????
Together, we got into Cheerleaders. Then when I was kicked off because I would not cut my hair (or stop teasing it), she quit --in solidarity with me. Together we got into KBY --KIND, BEAUTIFUL AND YOUNG.a Western High School sorority for the hot girls and then, after going through the dreaded GOATING, together we quit when Ferne found racist language in their charter. This was the height of the Civil Rights Movement. I remember how Aunt Becky took us for a drive in her huge powder blue convertible, with those little paper NAACP caps worn proudly on our heads. We figured it all out together, on the third floor of the Carpousis' house, writing little books about things like: how to survive and thrive -- as a girl --- long before there was a Women's Movement Second Wave. One, I remember, was called Observations of the Unobservant, silly girls
In the summer of 1969, we went to San Francisco together with flowers in our hair. In 1979, we went to Puerto Rico together. In about 1989, we visited her and Eric in Italy. Several years ago, she spirited me away to a health spa in Mexico to try to help me heal. Ferne and Bobby were forever planning for the Happy Holler Old Peoples' Commune so we could spend our later years together. Her generous heart, just the right words, She was always there for me. Always.
Ferne was possessed of enough talent, guts, smarts and heart for several lifetimes. She brought her sardonic wit, unique turn of phrase, wackiness and grace to all kinds of things: her homes, pictures, her many and amazing gardens. She was the first environmentalist we knew. She did parties, puppies and political work. She wrote plays, screenplays, chants, posters, letters, aphorisms and memoirs. She was a master of the contradiction, Dogwood Queen and Revolutionary -- mixing her talents for cuisine, couture and athletics every single day.
She did her PR work and the years of liner notes for the runaway international success of Pro Audio- all of it, so much more than can be listed here, -- far more and varied a repertoire than several ordinary lifetimes. Had she been able to stay, we would have had a brilliant book or two from Ferne. --And I'm hoping that a few of her near and dearest will work with me to publish some of her writings she would like that --the rare combination of biting ironies and full-hearted,,,, visionary dreaming that one invariably found there. .
I believe that she returned to Martindale, to the farm, which she helped to found, the commune that grew fields of vegetables so that PRIDE, INC. could distribute them in DC's poorest communities because of the utopian and visionary ideas it animated in the early 70's and still represents for us today, leaving us a signpost for the future. She points us to the highest goals------- for community, for equality and for peace as well as kindness to creatures of all kinds and the earth which holds us -- to work for, as she did. Recently, Ferne created the pilot Food Gardens in Schoolyards Program in Miami, which began with a small grant and her hands and heart. She built into a large citywide success story. There are always things to be done.
I will miss her til I rejoin her. I will search her down, wherever she is and give her an earful. You can bet on that, Fereniki, my sweetie, -----I cannot forgive you, -----I cannot go on without you ----- I forgive you, ---- I understand. ---- in that order.
She will be with us, close-- her brilliant smile lighting the way, in our hearts, in our bellies, in our minds and souls -- just on the other side, for always and always. She loved us so her beloved friends and family, her darling Eric, Lola, Viva.
She would never have left us if she had had a choice. RIP, dearest girl, Rest in peace.
ever your, Joanie
Lenne Miller
February 4, 2009
I still cannot belive she is gone. I've never loved anyone more than I loved Ferne, despite not seeing her for over 20 years. I miss her still. That's just the way it is. I know now how I ruined the opportunity to be with this beautiful person. I take solace only by knowing she brought such happiness to so many others during her life. I shall miss her always.
mike daly
January 25, 2009
Nearly one year has passed since we all lost Ferne, I can say that since that day when we all gathered in Washington to say goodbye to her, the pain of this loss still endures. She gave genuine energy to all of us, but did so in very personal ways unique to herself. She would be very impatient with somber words, but the reality is that her presence cannot be replaced. Her friendship to me is one of the finest experiences of my life. I look forward to that bright day of the resurrection, when we all be together again, when we will see Feroula again. I pray that her soul is now at peace.
January 25 2009
Alethea Carpousis Kimmel
March 18, 2008
I was very sad to hear just last night of Ferne's passing on February 10th. While my memories of Ferne go back over 40 plus years to childhood, I do remember her stunning beauty and radiant smile.
My sincere condolences to Ferne's husband Eric, my Aunt Mary, each of my cousins- Pam, Happy, Dean, Greg and Kathy and their immediate families.
I pray Ferne is at peace, her battle having been won and has both her Father, Aris and my Father, Jimmy by her side. I truly regret that I did not have the opportunity to know Ferne better.
Lenne Miller
March 5, 2008
Ferne and I were close in college. She was the most beautiful, intelligent, witty, and passionate woman I have ever known. I have thought about her often throughout the past 38 years and I am saddened that I could not have spent more of that time with this amazing woman. My younger sister just called to console me and she remembered vividly how, in 1968, this beautiful girl with long dark hair in a green dress who went out of her way to talk to her and make her feel more confident. That was how Ferne was. I send my condolences to Eric, Mary, Pamela, and the rest of her family who are suffering over this tragic loss.
Tim Andersen
March 4, 2008
Eric,
I just heard your sad news from Peter and Robin. My deepest sympathy for your loss. I can feel for what you've endured.
Tim Andersen
HWRHS '74
Lenne Miller
March 4, 2008
Ferne was the love of my life and I can be sure that many of you can say the same thing. We met one day at Northwestern. (She had the reputation of being the most beautiful woman on campus, so I had to finagle a way to meet her)and I was immediately "Hoovered" into her soul through her beautiful brown eyes, which at the same time trapped me without hope of escape and warned that she was about to deliver a brilliant, insightful, teasing quip to cut me down a peg. I am blessed that we enjoyed four wonderfully tumultuous years together and I have missed her every day for the past 38 years. As I saw the tribute to her on You Tube, while I was sad to realize that I did not continue to be part of her life, it made me very happy to know her life was good and she was happy. I think she was smiling in every shot. And there was nothing more beautiful on this Earth than Ferne's smile. I wish my heartfelt condolences to her husband Eric and to Mary and Pamela and the rest of her family. It must be so very much harder on you to lose her. I would give anything to talk to her one more time.
Athena Carpousis Ellner
March 3, 2008
It was with great saddness that I learned of the passing of my cousin Ferne from my brother Aris. My memories of her are ones of a very beautiful, majestic woman. May her name be for a blessing and may she live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew her. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Ellen Heredia
February 27, 2008
Eric, I am so very sorry to hear the horrible and sad news. I just can't believe it... My deepest felt sympathy and many hugs to you and your beloved pups. What a beautiful soul with a infectious smile that touched me in the few hours that I had been in her presence. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ellen Heredia
Julia Hart
February 23, 2008
To Ferne's Family & Friends:
She was a stunningly beautiful and brave woman that I wish I had known as an adult. I knew her in high school and I'm saddened that the world has lost such a vibrant and committed soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Ferne.
Charlie Filpes
February 21, 2008
Ferne,
You introduced me to a great man by the name of Dr. John Lewis, who along with myself, you would be so proud to know, are being published in the Journal of School Health soon, in YOUR and our endless fight against childhood obesity. NOW WE WILL FIGHT IN YOUR HONOR!
Joe McDonald
February 20, 2008
I would like to express my deepest and most sincere condolences to the family at this time of loss. It has been many, many years since I last had contact with Ferne, but as I'm sure that you know her thoughts, visions and impressions remain with one for a lifetime. I have fond memories of growing up in DC and Ferne was a large part of that. I still hearken back to conversations that we had. She helped shape my principles and beliefs and I would like to think has made me a better person for having known her and being influenced by her. She was one of those rare few that leaves a footprint on your heart. Again I know her passing will leave a huge void in your lives and my thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Stracie (Petroutsa) Maniatis
February 19, 2008
Dear Pam,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss.I had returned from California Sunday evening; and my brother John told me on Monday of Ferne's passing. I cannot begin to tell you of all the memories I have of your sister as we grew up together. Please extend my deepest sympathy to Mom and your brothers and sister. When you have the time please contact me. I am totally stunned by this news. Zoe se sas.
Sincerely,Stracie
Leslie Bass
February 19, 2008
Beautiful smile, kind neighbor, brought together by the love we had for our pets. Eric you are both greatly missed in our neighborhood. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
February 19, 2008
Deepest condolences to our friend Eric Hompe. From two friends in Vicenza, Italy. Lucia Soliman and Raul (Jim) Cantu
Robert and Gloria Woolfenden
February 18, 2008
To Dr. Dean Carpousis; We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your sister. Just want you to know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Wishing you the best in the healing process from your loss. Sincerely, Bob and Gloria
Kathleen Cattie
February 18, 2008
I first met Ferne when she and others from Slow Food and Plant a Thousand Gardens came to my school and said they wanted to help me create an organic garden. That was 4 years ago, and Ferne and I were friends ever since. Because of Ferne, I became a Slow Food member, met and became friends with the most interesting people, including her husband Eric, and was a surrogate mom to all of Ferne's beloved pets.
Ferne was vivacious, spirited, beautiful and one of a kind. I will think of her every time I have my students in the garden that she helped create and maintain. She will be greatly missed.
Eric, I am so sorry...
Kat
George Fishman
February 18, 2008
Your passion and exuberance for food -- the flavors, the land and soil, the people who nurture it; your commitment to fairness and justice; your bursting laughter -- these are among your gifts that will remain with us. We so miss the adventures imagined, but never realized together, but remain grateful for those we shared. Also, the eloquence of your writing – anyone who hasn’t read Ferne’s ode to the thin-skinned tomato, feel free to contact us – will always endure. The ring of dear friends whom you and Eric strung together must carry forth your spirit. Abide in peace, Ferne. You will always be an inspiration, especially when we dig in the ground or travel in your beloved adopted home, Italy. We love you, Ferne. We love you, Eric, and send a huge embrace.
George Fishman & Nancy Ancrum
Miami Shores, FL
George Fishman
February 18, 2008
Your passion and exuberance for food -- the flavors, the land and soil, the people who nurture it; your commitment to fairness and justice; your bursting laughter -- these are among your gifts that will remain with us. We so miss the adventures imagined, but never realized together, but remain grateful for those we shared. Also, the eloquence of your writing – anyone who hasn’t read Ferne’s ode to the thin-skinned tomato, feel free to contact us – will always endure. The ring of dear friends whom you and Eric strung together must carry forth your spirit. Abide in peace, Ferne. You will always be an inspiration, especially when we dig in the ground or travel in your beloved adopted home, Italy. We love you, Ferne. We love you, Eric, and send a huge embrace.
George Fishman & Nancy Ancrum
Samuel & Anita Medici
February 16, 2008
We will miss you Ferne. While we knew you only for a short time, your wonderful spirit and enthusiasm for life was inspiring and made our lives more joyful. I remember our brief discussion as we walked through the Cathedral gardens, about the everlasting continuity of life.
Blessings to you,
Sam and Anita Medici
John Nardella
February 16, 2008
To brother Dean and family, we're sorry for your loss of sister, Fern. We learned of her passing while in Florida, and want to let you know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dr. Dean, you are always there for our family and grateful for your compassion.
God Bless,
John and Lana Nardella
Jimmy Pruitt
February 15, 2008
I will always remember Fern her and her friends moved down the street. They were happy, free spirited, grew vegetables and gave them away to an organization called "Rap". They built the house they lived in. When they first moved in, eveyone just thought they were hippies. But it turned out that most people thought the world of them, because they were city people turned into country folk. She will always be remembered and missed by me.
Caryl Zook
February 15, 2008
Ferne was brilliant, generous and compassionate. She enthusiastically embraced every opportunity to contribute to making the world a better place. She directed her mighty energies to issues of the environment, health care, safe, clean food, education, peace and justice... She kept us informed and inspired with her email policy alerts, letters to the editor, and sharing of articles of particular interest to each of us. Ferne was an academic, activist, gardener, writer, wife, sister, daughter, aunt… She was a faithful friend to teachers, artists, community leaders, farmers, foodies…. We all mourn the loss of this dynamic woman. We will miss her beautiful smile.
Jo Anne Bander
February 14, 2008
Ferne was talented, beautiful, inspirational and a dear friend and leader. Her work in Miami to promote Slow Food and school gardens lives on, grows and thrives as a lasting tribute to her dedication. Even when she moved back to DC, she inspired with great e-mails and her writings and never let us forget that we needed to keep working to promote Slow Food and liberal causes. We will miss her tremendously. In fact, we already do.
Michael and Jo Anne Bander
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