Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Rosemary was born in 1927 to George and Ella Imhoff in Hillsboro, Ill. After graduating from high school in Chicago, her family moved to Bremerton, where she met her husband Wallace (Wally) Long on a blind date in 1946. It was love at first sight, resulting in a long and loving marriage of 52 years.
Together, they raised three sons – Bruce, Ken, and Brad – in Seattle. While Wally served in the Seattle police force, Rosemary, a caring wife and mom, volunteered over the years at school PTAs, Boy Scouts, and church. She was also a very active and beloved sorority member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 70 years.
In 2008, 10 years after Wally’s death, Rosemary married Raymond (Ray) Carroll. They enjoyed five wonderful years together. Prior to Ray’s passing in 2013, they were able to share many beautiful coastal sunrises and sunsets from the comfort of their peaceful home in Edmonds.
Rosemary is described by her sorority sisters as “kind, generous, and full of fun.” She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend to all who were fortunate to know her. A world traveler who loved learning about different cultures, Rosemary was always on the lookout for her next big adventure by land, air, or sea.
Kauai, however, took precedence as her home away from home for over 30 years. An avid gardener known for her amazing flower arrangements, Rosemary loved Kauai’s flora, and she easily connected with the islanders who soon became extended members of her family.
Rosemary will forever be remembered for her gracious, positive, non-judgmental disposition, her joy for life, and her unwavering love for family and friends. She is survived by her sons Bruce (wife Kathy), Ken (wife Jan), and Brad (wife Trudy); six grandchildren (Kelsey, Megan, Kacie, Courtney, Allie, and Bennett); and two great-grandchildren (Finley and Emery).
At her request, a celebration of life will be planned at a later date, when it is safe for a large gathering of her friends and family to convene.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Woodland Park Zoo, Children’s Hospital in Seattle, policemen’s widow funds, SPD Chaplin, SPD Honor Guard – all of which Rosemary loved to support.
