September 29, 1943 - June 21, 2020
Carolyn (Palmer) Vernam grew up in Yakima, WA. Upon completing her nursing degree at Tacoma General School of Nursing, she enlisted in the Air Force and served at Lackland Airforce base as an ER and ICU nurse during the Vietnam war. She later worked at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital where her soon to be husband gave her the nickname “Tiger” for her efficiency and ability to take charge. The name stuck and she was known as Tiger the rest of her life. Lee and Carolyn were married on Valentine’s Day 1971 and moved to Spokane where they have made their home for the past 49 years along with a succession of bichon puppies whom she loved. Carolyn was creative and artistic. She started painting in her 20s. When she retired from nursing because of a back injury, she developed her passion for landscape design and gardening. Her meticulously groomed yard and home filled with artwork and décor became her hallmarks. She loved crafting, a hobby she enjoyed with her sister. She brought joy to others for 76 years with her humor, friendliness, generosity, and genuine caring. Carolyn loved Jesus and she loved being an instrument of His goodness. Carolyn went to be with the Lord Sunday, June 21 after a lengthy battle with terminal lung disease.
