Carolyn J. Harper, age 74, of Sanibel, Fla., died Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at her summer residence in Annandale, with views of the lake and surrounded by her children.
A public Celebration of Life will be held for Carolyn on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at The Boathouse at ‘Tween Lakes in Annandale, Minn., from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Annandale, with Fr. Kevin Magner as Celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Assistance League of Omaha.
Carolyn Joan Harper was born on June 23, 1952, in Lansing, Mich., to Charles and Joan “Josie” (Bruggema) Harper. Carolyn was raised in Minnesota, where she developed a love for nature and connection with those around her. After her graduation from Minnetonka High School, Carolyn furthered her education with a bachelor’s degree in physical education from William Woods University in Missouri. Though she never pursued a career as a physical education teacher, Carolyn’s adventurous spirit led her to the skies as a flight attendant with Braniff Air. She embraced the world with open arms, always eager to explore, laugh and make new friends wherever her travels took her.
Carolyn’s love of design and creativity drew her back to school, where she honed her skills in interior design. As a talented interior designer, she brought warmth, elegance and joy to countless homes.
A true lover of life’s simple pleasures, Carolyn was a passionate dog enthusiast who found delight in traveling, scuba diving, knitting and downhill skiing. She had a remarkable appreciation for the arts, including but not limited to dancing, music, painting and photography. As a dedicated volunteer, Carolyn found fulfillment in helping her community, volunteering and serving as a director of Assistance League of Omaha and Hospice House of Omaha. She was dedicated to her kids, grandkids and family. Carolyn’s favorite moments were spent in the presence of her family, especially her grandchildren.
Carolyn is survived by her children, Dr. Sean (Dr. Katrina) Wherry of Cold Spring, Minn.; Bregan (John) Herrold of Glencoe, Ill., and Shannon (Matt) McLinden of Wheaton, Ill.; grandchildren, Josie Platt, Ferguson Wherry, Charlie Wherry, Julia Wherry, Jack Herrold, Silas McLinden, Ella Herrold, Hayston Wherry, Oliver McLinden and Callum Herrold; siblings, Kathy (Dr. Hal) Wenngatz of Annandale, Minn.; Dr. C. Mike (Mary) Harper of Rochester, Minn.; and Betsy (Chris) Murphy of Omaha, Neb.; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. She was preceded by her parents.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Annandale.
Obituary, Guestbook and Video Tribute are online at www.dingmannfuneral.com.