Carole-Anne Collins de La Chapelle Obituary (2024)

Carol-Anne de La Chapelle (ne Gilbert), aged 99, passed away on March 27, 2024, in Yakima, Washington. Born on March 1, 1925, in Yakima, she was a beloved member of her family. Carol-Anne embraced her family's values of grit, initiative, and being made of 'sterner stuff.' Her determination and adventurous spirit were evident from a young age. She often joined her father's Boy Scout troop on backcountry hikes and ski trips. She also loved family trips to Orcas where amenities were few, but the enchanting beauty and carefree days made for an idyllic summer vacation. After graduating from Yakima High, she followed her brother's path to Pomona College in Claremont, California, where she studied Political Science. She loved her Pomona years but that golden chapter ended shortly after graduation when her father died suddenly. Carol-Anne quickly returned to Yakima to assist in managing the family's apple business. Her affinity for adventure and European culture and style, led her to study at the Sorbonne in Paris. Her mother and a family friend visited Carol-Anne later that year and the three of them had many adventures exploring Europe in a Peugeot that her mother purchased for the trip. Later, seeking more excitement (and income), Carol-Anne ventured to Washington, DC, and worked at the State Department. Despite not wanting to settle in Yakima, on a visit home, Carol-Anne met a handsome young Chicagoan (with French roots) and eventually returned to Yakima and married him. They had many happy years together, raising 5 children and forming cherished friendships. The Russian Reading Group, where close friends met regularly to discuss stimulating books over lunch, was a highlight. She was also passionate about managing Snow Mountain, a cattle and Arabian horse ranch she and her siblings inherited. She later sold most of the land to Cowiche Canyon Conservancy. This property now forms the basis of the Conservancy's Snow Mountain Ranch and Cowiche Mountain trail section. Carol-Anne was an active member of the Yakima community, dedicating her time to organizations such as the Yakima Valley Museum, the Gilbert House, and Allied Arts. Her commitment to various cultural and charitable endeavors enriched the lives of those around her. In her leisure time, Carol-Anne found joy in gardening, exploring the arts, playing tennis, and gathering with family and friends. Carol-Anne Gilbert de La Chapelle was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, and her siblings, Marion Mann, Cragg, Mark, and Bruce. She is survived by 5 children, Catherine Allan (Tom), Charlie, Renee Hough (Charley), Jacqueline (David Hansmann), Joanna Cable (Kevin), 9 grandchildren, Jeannette, Marc, Ben, Houston, Whitman, William, Nik, Catherine, Alexander, 11 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She leaves cherished memories and a legacy of kindness and dedication to her family, friends, and community. Services will be held at a later date to celebrate the life of this remarkable woman. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Memorials may be given to the Yakima Valley Museum, the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, or the Yakima Area Arboretum. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. www.brooksidefuneral.com