Carol Ann Detter Falen, Age 86, entered into rest peacefully on December 28, 2021, in Missoula, Montana. She was born on November 8, 1935, daughter to Harry and Mildred Detter in Hutchinson, Kansas.
She graduated from Winfield High School, Winfield, Kansas in 1953 as valedictorian and received several art awards. Carol has maintained lifelong friendships from her days there. She attended Oklahoma State University where she was a very active member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Carol was chosen to represent OSU and honored as an American Royal Princess in 1954.
Carol married Darrell Keith Falen on June 23, 1956. They had 59 joyous years, filled with adventure and extensive travel within the US and Abroad. They spent their early married days with the US Navy in Florida, California, and Washington State, landing back in Kansas to continue raising their two children. Carol finished her undergraduate work at Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas in 1969. She began teaching Home Economics at West Junior High School, Lawrence, Kansas alongside her dear friend Janet Fike, retiring after 26 years in 1995. Carol was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church, Lawrence, Kansas where she also volunteered. She continued to help with the University of Kansas Alpha Chi Omega chapter in Lawrence.
Carol was blessed with a wonderful family and many friends with whom she enjoyed bridge, coffee, parties, travel, boating, skiing, golfing and sharing cherished memories. She was an accomplished painter and loved to sew and quilt, designing numerous beautiful creations, donating and gifting to others.
Carol treasured her time with family. Together, Noni and Pop Pop supported and shared in their grandsons lives and activities, bringing much pride and joy to all. Carol proudly supported her husband as Coach and Administrator at Lawrence High School and was also a loyal fan of the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, KC Royals and the KC Chiefs sports teams.
Carols beloved husband, her parents and brother, Marshall Detter preceded her in death.
She will be greatly missed by her two children and spouses, son Steve Falen and wife Susan, daughter Diana Vincent and husband Jeff, grandsons Zach Falen, Cooper and Tanner Vincent, sister and brother-in-law Janice and Larry Flick and sister-in-law Diane Detter.
The family would like to thank the staff at The Springs At Missoula and Pioneer Ridge Independent Living in Lawrence for the care extended to Carol during her time living in each facility.
Private inurnment is planned. A Celebration of Life will be held from noon to 2 pm Saturday, April 9th, 2022, at the Eldridge Hotel.
Carol was one of my favorite friends of my grandma, Wilma. My grandparents were always keen on going out to breakfast with Carol and Darrell almost every Sunday after Church. When Darrell passed, Wilma and I would either enjoy time with Carol after church or at her house. Thank you Carol for all the wonderful memories you shared with Wilma, the wedding gift you gave me and my husband and the simple but very delicious vinaigrette recipe you shared with me. 🙂 Hugs and prayers to your lovely family.
Memories of Carol’s energy, graciousness and warm heart will always be with me. She was so much fun to be around, especially when we were both – at last – retired, and I would see her in a restaurant or store on a “school day.” I’ll think of her and Darrell happily reunited now. My condolences to all the family on losing this sweet lady.
Mrs. Falen was my Home Economics teacher at West Jr. High in the late 80’s. I remember her well as being so kind and patient. Looking back, how she kept such composure and focus teaching a room full of hormonal teenagers is beyond me, however she did so with pure grace and kindness. To date, while sewing patterns especially, I remember Mrs, Falen patiently teaching me how to read, mark, and cut my pattern. I have thought of her many times over the years. She made a wonderful impression on me. My sincere condolences to her family as I know you will miss her dearly.
We will cherish the memories of the happy trips and times we spent with Carol and Darrell. You could not have a better friend for life than Carol. We raised our children together and helped each other through good times and even some very sad times. Carol was a thoughtful compassionate person with many
talents that produced lovely paintings and gorgeous quilts that she shared with her friends and family. Carol taught both my daughters and was an excellent teacher. Though I will miss Carol so much, and the long chats we used to have, it makes me happy to think of her with Darrell again. Many prayers and God’s comfort to Steve and Diana and the grandchildren.
My children and I have many wonderful memories of Carol and Darrell over the years. As good friends to my in-laws, Jane and Jerry Rogers, we had the honor to spend time with Carol and Darrell and listen to the many stories. I believe with all my heart that somewhere Carol, Darrell, Jane and Jerry are sitting on a porch overlooking a beautiful garden and sharing a never ending friendship. Our love and prayers to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. Michele, Caelan and Sophia
I will always cherish the memories teaching Home Economics with Carol for many years at West Junior High. After retiring to Bellingham, WA, Carol and Darrell made a number of trips for visits and play plenty of golf! Lou and I will always treasure their friendship.
Carol cast a bright light at West Junior High. As her colleague, I was grateful for and respectful of her light-hearted approach combined with accountability to teaching. Her friendly, relaxed cooperative attitude was stellar and she set a fine example. Sincere condolences to Steve, Diana and families.
Such a sweet lady and enjoyed our visits when we lived next door to each other. My condolences to Steve,Diana and families.
Mrs. Falen was a beloved and talented Home Economics teacher. Thoughts and prayers to Steve and Diana and your clans.
My memories of Carol and Darrell are so numerous and precious to me! We had so many special family times together that come to mind when remembering her! Was blessed to have them in my life! Prayers to you Steve and Dianna and your families!
Beautiful obituary for a beautiful, sweet lady. Prayers and hugs to Diana, Jeff and family.