Carole Randall Mercer
courtesy photo
Carole Mercer
POLSON – On Monday, July 6, 2015, Carole Randall Mercer passed away in the comfort of her home with loved ones near and her Chihuahuas vigilantly by her side.
Carole was born in Washington, D.C., on July 14, 1953. Soon after, the Randall family found themselves taking up residence in Hayward, California. This was a place dear to her heart and Carole’s “East Bay” pride forever resonated. Being born to a published author and art professor, life was full of adventure, world travels and unparalleled experiences.
Life’s many adventures inevitably led the Randall family to Polson, Montana. Here in Polson, Carole met and fell in love with Michael Ralph Mercer. The couple was married in October of 1977 at the Mercer family property, becoming known as “Sunset Lodge.” The magnificent sunsets from the porch came to be a comfort for Carole in her last days.
The couple eventually found themselves settling in Yakima, Washington. A brief stint was also spent in Seattle and Ellensburg. Carole was particularly proud of her Ellensburg roots and of the art department named “Randall Hall,” at Central Washington University being named after her uncle. During her time in Yakima, Carole was a dedicated and hard-working employee of Gasperetti’s Restaurant. This attribute resonated in every other aspect of her life – as a mother, friend and wife.
Those who were fortunate enough to have known and loved Carole will always remember her honesty, undeniable generosity, work ethic, unmatched spirit and “everything is going to be okay” attitude.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Florence and Arnie Randall; husband Michael Mercer; and a number of her beloved dogs throughout the years: Knuckles, Joey, Chloe and Pepe.
She is survived by her two daughters, Jennifer Palmer of Tybee Island, Georgia, and Ashley Mercer of Polson; one grandson, Baxter Palmer; three siblings: Reino Randall, Marlene Richey and Janey Peterson; not to mention an extended family who loved her like a sister.
Carole, we love you, miss you and will always hold you dear in our hearts. Grandma “C,” you will be with us forever in spirit and swimming in the crystal clear waters of Flathead Lake. Until we meet again, may you be free of pain, discomfort and worry.
Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.thelakefuneralhomeandcrematory.
Arrangements are under the direction of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.
