Carolyn Rompkey (nee Pike)
July 21, 1938 to September 10, 2025
Obituary
The funeral service for Carolyn Rompkey will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.
Please click HERE for the link
On September 10th we said goodbye to our dear, sweet mother, Carolyn Rompkey (Pike). She was 87 years old. After suffering a stroke, plus other complications, she passed peacefully with her adoring children, Peter and Hilary, by her side. She is predeceased by her husband Bill Rompkey (2017). She leaves behind loving grandchildren, Max and Will, and son-in-law Joel, cousins, nieces and nephews in Newfoundland and beyond and an immense circle of wonderful friends and neighbours.
Carolyn graduated from Memorial University in St. John’s NL. She originally wanted to be a nurse but, on the advice of her basketball coach, she decided to do phys ed. and went on to become a gym teacher. She married Bill in 1963, and shortly after, they moved to North West River, Labrador, where they both taught and it wasn’t long before they started a family. And so the love story began with Labrador and its people. They would tell you it was the best time of their lives. In 1972, life changed again, when Carolyn became an unwavering partner in Bill’s political career; a role she took on with gusto and a shared passion for meeting new people and forging relationships. They were an inseparable team through seven federal elections.
She was admired and loved by many. Her mantra was “it doesn’t take much effort to be kind”. Full of light and energy she thrived on talking to people and making connections. Telling stories was Carolyn’s forté; most often about the adventures she and Bill had in Labrador.
Caring and nurturing, she taught everyone around her to be strong and independent. She was a champion for us all: family, friends and, especially, her grandchildren. A huge hockey fan, she never missed a Sens game. She loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest. A loyal, steadfast friend and confidante to many. The immense circle of friends she had was inspiring.
The family would like to thank the Neurology ICU team at the Ottawa Civic Hospital for the phenomenal care they provided.
Visitation will take place at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Rd, St. John’s on Thursday, October 9th at 2pm – 4pm and 7pm – 9pm. A memorial service will take place at Carnell’s on Friday, October 10th at 10am, interment to follow.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Them Days magazine.
Use this link to Give Now or click on the following link for more details Donate – Them Days .
E-transfers can be made to themdays@themdays.com . For e-transfers please indicate in the message that it is a donation and in honour of Carolyn Rompkey.
Their mailing address is: Them Days, PO Box 939 Stn B, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL A0P 1E0 Ph. 709 896-4970
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on October 9, 2025
7-9 p.m. on October 9, 2025
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
10:00am, Friday October 10th
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
Burial to follow at the Anglican Cemetery on Forest Road.
To Peter and Hilary
Our deepest condolences on the passing of your Mom.
Throughout our lives she and your Dad were fixtures at 6 Tupper Drive. The memories burn bright and we share the sadness of your loss.
To Peter, Hilary and Joel, Max and Will.So sorry to hear that your Mom and Grandmother has passed.
Our connection was through Newfoundland, Labrador and Ottawa, and we were friends since the 1960s. I last saw her a few years ago when a number of old friends got together in Ottawa — Carolyn never changed, the same lovely smile and lots of stories of the old days, and of course loving updates on her children and grandchildren..
My love and condolences to you all..
Peter,
I was so sorry to hear that your mom passed away. It was obvious to me from our chats how much you adored her and how deeply you cared for her wellbeing. I can only imagine how much you’ll miss her. I hope wonderful memories comfort you at this sad time. Take care.
Jane
Peter and Hilary: So sorry to hear that Carolyn has passed. Liz and I remember the many Liberal campaigns that we had together. Carolyn was such a lovely person. We send our sincere condolences to you and the extended family… Mun Batetone
Peter and Hilary
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.. She was a beautiful lady. Hold on to your memories. Condolences to you all.
Peter,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this very sad time.
Peace
Sheilagh O’Leary
This pleasant lady was my gym teacher in Grade 1 at MacPherson. I don’t remember much about her, other than her vivacious character. As Dad (the late John Feltham) knew Bill from PWC (I think), they attended their wedding. I believe the wedding was over the Easter holidays, but stand to be corrected. However, when Mom and Dad came home they told me that I had to call her Mrs. Rompey. The problem was, the class was not informed and I was the only one who addressed her by her married name! I assure the family that Grade 1 was the only year that I didn’t detest gym. Unfortunately, I do not have an athletic gene in my body. My condolences to her children and grandchildren.
Hilary & Peter,
We send our condolences on your mother’s passing. She was a wonderful woman; her patience and supportive nature made her a perfect partner for your father. He would not have had his political success and longevity without her. We hoped she write a book about her Labrador experiences. There is history that has been lost with her passing and the loss of her stories. She leaves many fond memories behind.
Peter,
Sincere condolences on the passing of your mother. May your memories bring you peace and comfort at this difficult time.
Sincerely, Anna Powet
To the family,
I remember her well as our gym teacher. She was so kind and I had the opportunity to meet her again with her husband Bill.. please accept my deepest condolences.
Maxine Powers Stanley
Peter:
We were saddened to read of your mother’s passing and send our sincere condolences for your loss. May your memories of her sustain you and your family during the difficult days ahead.
Cyndy Stead and Ervin Locke – Port Rexton, NL.
Known to her students at MacPherson Academy as Miss Pike , Carolyn was loved as a gym teacher and we always looked forward to her class. Sincere condolences to her family . May her gentle soul Rest in Peace .