Carolynn Tempest Baer

Carolynn Tempest Baer passed away at age 77 on December 22, 2025, after the sudden discovery of a brain tumor. Her enthusiasm for life, her loving nature, and her many talents made her a vibrant person who will be missed.

Carolynn spent her early childhood in Kenmore, a suburb of Buffalo, New York. When she was 13, her family moved to Gresham Oregon. After finishing high school, she went to Oberlin College, where she met Jim. They were married for 53 years, sharing adventures in South America, raising their three children together, and enjoying travels around the world. Carolynn enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, and watching their soccer games, ballet performances, and cat videos.

An avid gardener, Carolynn made lovely flower arrangements. Carolynn was a knitter, making baby sweaters and lap robes that she gave away, and handknit wool socks to enjoy herself. Carolynn’s special talent was playing the flute. She played with friends and at church, sharing her talent. Carolynn enjoyed the outdoors, especially the Oregon coast. She loved to kayak, hike, and enjoyed riding her bike.

Carolynn lived in Fairfax, Virginia for 37 years. She was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church, serving as an ordained elder and helping with many church activities. She was an occupational therapist, and found ways to help those she worked with improve their daily living skills. After she retired, Carolynn advocated for patients in a skilled nursing facility as an ombudsman for Fairfax County.

Carolynn is survived by her husband, Jim, her children David, John, and Amanda, and her brothers, Bill (Carol) and David (Kathy). She has four grandchildren: Johanna, Natalie, Calvin, and Timmy. In lieu of flowers, she would want donations to Western Fairfax Christian Ministries (https://www.wfcmva.org/) or to a charity of the donor’s choice.