Auntie Kathi
From an early age I knew Auntie Kathi was something special to be cherished. Constantly, she would exude a contagious energy, an excitement for life. Always the first in the room to laugh, to enjoy, to value those present and those afar. As I grew older, I began to see and recognize why she valued each and every one of you so much and I tied those connections to my own heart.
Each year at Christmas I could hardly wait for her annual holiday questionnaires. The opportunity was upon us to learn how we’d changed, how we’d grown, to define our new hobbies, habits, and favorites… the chance to buck the trend and discover our own originality. Those personal interviews pushed me to dig deep, to reaffirm my personality, or maybe to even discover a new identity!
Auntie Kathi loved history, science, all knowledge, lists, and genealogy. She was passionate about travel, knowing where you came from, and reconnecting with your past. Together we curated family trees, genealogical studies, even property deeds, uncovering a vast network of stories tracing back for centuries.
While studying dentistry at Loma Linda University, she was ever present in my life. Curious about my studies, what courses I was in, my new discoveries, even my day, always ever ready to spoil me with good conversation and food. An ever present guiding light during highs and lows.
Thunder bolts strike to the core when you realize life has stolen you away and you took for granted those precious moments you can never get back. Moments to love more, to learn more, to give more! Too little to share memories, share experiences, lend ourselves to conversations.
In honor of Auntie Kathi’s legacy, I challenge all of us to live more, learn more, give more, love more. If she taught us anything, it is that love conquers all.
Love your nephew,
Kadin
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