I am so sad to read about the passing of Devi. She was the most wonderful host mom I could have had. It must have been quite challenging to have an extra teenager in your home, but Devi was so generous with her time, energy and love. She drove me around to all of my different activities, band, school and rotary meetings and made me feel welcome in her home from day one. She helped me with all problems that came up, be it my allergic reaction to all the lovely mosquitos in Florida or paperwork for the summer camp I went to after my exchange. 

I remember a day from Winter Springs High School when I was in math class and my name was called out in the speaker system that I should report to the reception. And I thought "Oh god, what trouble am I in now" - turns out it was Devi there who had brought me a doughnut and a drink. And I was like "Thank you so much - but why? it's not my birthday" and she told me she just wanted to do something nice for me. And I was so surprised and happy that she would just do that for me for no apparent reason. She was so dedicated to making everyone in her family feel good and have everything they need. 

My deepest condolences to Bart, Elizabeth, William and Amanda. I know your loss is big, in this is just so unfair. I am sad I didn't have the opportunity to meet her again after my exchange but thankful I got to know her and that it was Devi that was my host mom, I got really lucky. I will always think about her with warmth and love. 

My heart goes out to Bart, Elizabeth, William, and Amanda.  Devi will be with us always.  May all the wonderful memories comfort you all at this time of deep sadness.  

 Devi and I joined Rotary on the same day.  She had already been involved with Rotary International and introduced me to it as well when she asked me to help out with one of our wonderful exchange students from Japan.  I loved the experience and miss those special days.  She was always at the center of the youth exchange in our club and it made Rotary that much more special for our club.     I smile when I think back to being on a bowling team together.  We had a lot of laughs.  I will always cherish our friendship.  

 You will soar high Devi, heaven’s gain is our great loss.  Until we meet again.  With much love.  

We will miss her in RYE , the memory is born . Warm condolences from the Netherlands 

Barbara Tusveld