Obituary of Carol Jean Hinrichs-Fletcher

Carol Jean Hinrichs-Fletcher
1946– 2025

Carol Jean Hinrichs-Fletcher, 78, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Carol was born on November 7, 1946 in Omaha, Nebraska. Carol’s beloved husband of 42 years, John Fletcher, preceded her in death, as did her parents, Edward J and Helen C Hinrichs of Wahoo, NE. 

Carol attended the University of Nebraska from 1964-67 and earned a BS degree in Speech Therapy. She provided speech therapy to students enrolled in the Westside School District of Omaha from 1967-71. Then in 1971, Carol moved to Seattle and changed career paths to become a flight attendant for Western and Delta Airlines for over 4 decades. She loved her career that fueled her passion for travel and introduced her to a world of adventure. After her retirement, Carol continued to explore the globe, with Paris holding a special place in her heart as her favorite destination.

Carol and John built their life together in Seattle, Washington, where they created countless memories filled with travel, sailing, skiing and laughter. For the last 20+ years, they spent winters in Hawaii, embracing the beauty and serenity of island life. Whether sailing across Puget Sound of the northwest or enjoying a sunset in Hawaii, Carol found great joy in the experiences she and John shared.

Carol is survived by her brother, James (Linda) Hinrichs; stepdaughters Kathryn (Jon) Sigler and Cindy (Jay) Tyler, stepson Gregory M Fletcher, 3 step grandchildren, nephews Scott (Cara) Hinrichs and David (Keri) Hinrichs; her niece Amy (Kevin) Korinek; and seven great nieces and nephews.

A private celebration of Carol's life will be held in the Twin Cities on March 14th with family and close friends gathering to honor her memory. The family requests that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or a charity of your choice in Carol's name in lieu of flowers.

Carol’s family and friends take solace in knowing she is reunited with John, her soulmate, as they set sail together on their next great adventure. Those who loved her will long remember her adventurous spirit and zest for life.