It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Carl Russell Komora on May 22, 2025, in Palm Desert, California. Carl passed away peacefully surrounded by his family’s love. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, husband, uncle, and friend who lived his life with passion, humor, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Carl is survived by his, beloved wife, Judith, and his two daughters from his first marriage, Kimberly Komora-Healey and Sarah Kallisto, and he held a special place in his heart for both of them. He was a devoted father-in-law to Christopher Healey, husband of daughter Kimberly, who adored Carl for his passion for life and overall happiness. He is also survived by his cherished granddaughter, Clare Louise Healey, who shares the namesake of Carl's late mother. Carl loved to watch Clare grow up attending many of her musical theatre shows and excitedly taught her to fish on Big Bear Lake. He was also a beloved grandfather to his step-grandchildren, who knew him simply as "Grandpa Carl." 

Carl was born in Los Angeles to Frank and Mary Lee Louise Komora. Carl fondly recalled spending his summers in Trinidad, Colorado, the town where his father's family originated, creating a rich tapestry of roots and cherished memories that shaped his life. His stories of Trinidad summers with his sisters will always be remembered. 

Carl is also survived by his two sisters, Susan Hart of Reno, NV and Kathy Soltis of Pueblo, CO. He leaves behind his much loved nieces and nephews, Eric, Jill, Christine, and Tim.  Carl’s brother-in-law, Dennis Hart, husband to Susan Hart, was Carl’s lifelong best friend as they were buddies for over 60 years. Carl’s loving bond with his two sisters was unrivalled. 

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Carl served with distinction during a treacherous mission in the Philippines, before the Vietnam War, where he honed his skills as a soldier and became a machine gun specialist. He served 4 full years and earned the honor of being part of the Army's color guard. Carl proudly finished out his service to his country at Schofield Army Base on the island of O'ahu. His service to his country was an important chapter in his life, and one that shaped much of who he was—a man who faced challenges with courage and grace. His Army stories will forever be told by his children.  

Carl was not just a father and a soldier, but also a man who loved deeply and lived fully. He was always the first to celebrate the big moments, not only in his own life, but in the lives of those around him. His love for travel, fishing, and camping was only matched by his deep respect for nature, which he passed down to his daughters and granddaughter. As a father, his boundless energy, unwavering optimism, and quiet strength defined who he was— such qualities that profoundly shaped the lives of his children and left a legacy of love and resilience. Carl's children hold deeply cherished memories of their father, who introduced them to the splendor of our national parks and instilled in them a lasting passion for nature. He patiently taught them to swim and fish, fostering a love for the outdoors they will carry with them always. **10 Memorial Trees are planted in Carl's name in a US Forest in Need, to enrich habitats and balance our forests ecosystems, provided by the Arbor Day Foundation. **

His joyful spirit, contagious laughter, and genuine love for children made him a beloved figure to those who had the privilege of knowing him. Carl had a gift for connecting with people, especially children, and was often the one to make them laugh and feel at ease.

A passionate supporter of the USC Trojans football team and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Carl never missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams. He had an appreciation for the simple pleasures in life, including a well-cooked meal and the joy of family gatherings. Carl loved holidays and especially Christmas which he never missed the opportunity to decorate his home with sparkling lights and amusing displays.  A true animal lover, he will be missed by his beloved dog, Sammy. 

He will be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Carl’s legacy of kindness, joy, and love will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He will always be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, husband, and friend—a man who lived a life full of love and laughter.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/carl-komora/obituary/

Copy