Vivian Jean Carter, longtime resident of Klamath, California, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, at the age of 80.
Vivian was born on July 16, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, to William and Helen McDonald. She was the eldest of six siblings: Judy Kapolcyzinski, Billy McDonald, Danny McDonald, Donny McDonald, and Michael McDonald.
In 1962, Vivian met her future husband, Harold “Phil” Carter, during a train trip to the Seattle World’s Fair. The two were married later that year on September 7, beginning a 60-year journey of love and family.
Vivian had a vibrant and caring spirit. She never met a stranger and had a natural ability to connect with others. She was known for her warm smile, quick wit, and kindness. Even during her time in care facilities, she brought joy and laughter to the nurses and staff. A gifted seamstress and talented cake decorator, Vivian made her own wedding dress and created countless beautiful cakes for family events. She was also an avid reader and loved to travel. But most of all, she cherished time spent with her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Carter. She is survived by her three daughters: Patty Johnson (Don), Sheri Blankenheim (Charlie), and Julie Bjorkstrand (Erik); nine grandchildren: Lizz Johnson, Matthew Stevens (Shermila), Christopher Stevens (Cheryl), Nicholas Johnson, Michael Clark, Samuel Clark, Katie Takemura (Kawai), Bradley Blankenheim, and Taylee Bjorkstrand; one great-grandson, Kyran; and a great-granddaughter on the way.
Vivian’s warmth, creativity, and love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.