Carol Jean Fricke

She is survived by her soul mate and husband, John; daughter, Mindy Walker of Austin, and her children, Blake and Grace; and son, Kyle Fricke of Austin. She is also survived by her parents, Harvey and Bernice Kelm of Thorndale; siblings, Randy and Sandra Kelm of Burleson, and Fred Kelm of Beaumont; six nieces and nephews and five great-nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister, Connie.

Carol was born on July 3, 1947, in Houston, Texas, to Harvey and Bernice (Hengst) Kelm. She was baptized on July 10, 1947, at Trinity Church in Houston, Texas, by Pastor Harms. She was confirmed on March 26, 1961, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Thorndale, Texas, by Pastor Appel.

Carol grew up in Thorndale, Texas, graduating salutatorian from Thorndale High School in 1965. She earned her associate degree from Concordia College in 1967. She married John, the love of her life in 1968. She worked for the Texas Community College Teachers Association for over 37 years. Her children remember her as a kind, gentle, patient, and loving mother who ceaselessly encouraged and supported them.

Carol was a driven professional with a deep love for her family and her pets. She greatly enjoyed gardening and had an exceptionally green thumb. When diagnosed with brain cancer in 2013, she remained a brave, tough, iron-willed woman full of grace and kindness, even throughout her final months.

A celebration of life is scheduled for Friday, June 24,2016, at 2:30 P.M., at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church. Pastor Paul Meyer will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Carol's life.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Head for the Cure Foundation.