Kathryn was the first friend I made when I moved to my new house in 2013. I had just divorced after 40 years of marriage. She lived a couple of doors away, and she made me feel welcome. We spent a lot of time together, and shared memories and life stories. She was kind, warm and open, and her energy and love of life were contagious.  I was sorry when she moved, and visited her in Arizona the next year. We  stayed in touch by phone or text, and I will never forget her. 

My condolences to the people she loved and those who loved her. She had such a big heart, and I know there will be many family members and friends who will always miss her.  

Kath came into my world on December 24, 1999 when she and her family bravely moved from South Africa to Portland, Oregon where Steve would be the Finishing Manager for Rose City. In May 2000, she started volunteering at RCPP in marketing and needed time with me - a customer advocate 8 months pregnant with Becca and hard to pin down. I was elusive but she got me to share all I knew and from there we shared more than work but often play outside of it. 

Just after 9/11 a flight for girls weekend in Vegas, a cruise to Mexico for my inlaws 25th wedding celebration, work trips/road trips, selling jewelry in the mall at Christmas time, planning RCPP events, and sharing our families together. You are my kid’s Grandma Kathryn. Kristen one of my kiddos. You were the “squiggle” to my “triangle with rounded corners” personality. 

You taught me everything I know about serving customers with passion, joy, and excellence. The Service Model you conceptualized 23 years ago brings me joy to train and teach others your way. Your generosity, love for others, and deep care for people is unmatched and I so miss our talks, your laughter, and the joy you bring to any gathering. I love you, my friend. 25 years was not enough time yet I was so privileged to have you in my life for so long. ~your SheriLuni ❤️

As the oldest cousin I remember the visits to Harpenden and when their family came to our house. I have some photos of those early days but am not back in the UK til next week to share them with you. I was so glad to speak recently to Kathryn via WhatsApp and catch up on her story as we didn’t keep in touch very often. It was such a shame she didn’t get to the UK as she had hoped. I had seen her last in person when I visited Aunty Ann in South Africa and Kathryn was also visiting. That became a traumatic time as her Mum died during her stay.

My thoughts and prayers have been with Kristen, Randy, Andy and Mags and all her family and friends at this sad time.  I hope you will visit us some time Kristen and we can meet. Take consolation, everyone, in your happy memories.