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Gulfport, Mississippi

Karen Casper-Slamans Obituary

Karen Leah Casper-Slamans

On Christmas Day a Dream Died. Forever Young, Forever In Our Hearts. Even as we mourn her, we honor her memory. Karen Leah Casper-Slamans, surrounded by her loving family left this world on Christmas Day, December 25, 2006 to join her beloved deceased maternal grandmother-godmother, Etta Dean Salkowski, together they will brighten Heaven and lead the way for those to follow after them.

Karen, Born October 25, 1962, moved from Biloxi to Gulfport, MS, with her parents, Anthony Joseph Casper, Sr. and Kathleen Hurlbut-Casper when she was three years old. Karen will always have the special love that comes from knowing she always was and always will be her "Daddy's Little Girl," and she adored her daddy, and she always knew she was and always will be her 'Mama's Baby." But Karen was so much more than that. She was as much our strength as we tried to be hers. We were so in awe of this beautiful girl and precious soul that we were blessed to bring into this world. She was absolutely an inspiration to her family and many others. We will never be the same without her.

Other members of our close family include Karen's sister, Cynthia Ann Casper-Ladner, and her three brothers, Anthony Joseph Casper, Jr., who married Gail Ann Shaw (Gail became her "other" sister), Steven Paul Casper, who married Karin Maria Piatek, and Benjamin Joseph Casper, who married Theresa. Karen was, and always will be, their baby sister. Admired and loved by all.

Karen attended Anniston Avenue Elementary School, Bayou View Jr. High School, and Gulfport East High School. She later went on to become a certified paralegal and graduated from Phillips Business College with high honors and special recognition from her professors.

For many reasons Karen will always be loved, admired and remembered eternally by family and friends. Her children, Joseph Alan Slamans and Elizabeth Renee Slamans, will keep her memory with them and feel the love and care she gave to them for eternity. Karen loved both her children more than life itself, and proved it over and over again, and they loved her equally as much. The three of them comprised an awesome through "thick and thin" family unit. A family unit that could only grow yet remains the same. Their family of three became five with the births of her adored grandson, Dylan Alan Slamans, and granddaughter, Ashlynn Faye Slamans. Then it became eight with Karen's much loved "other" daughter, Mrs. Joseph (Felicia Lynn) Slamans, and two grandsons, Dalton Edward Rice and Matthew Allen Dearman. That unit will forever be unbreakable. Felicia, Dalton, and Matthew have all captured a part of Karen's heart and enriched her life just as she has theirs. This has been an absolute inspirational example of the true meaning of "family" of loving one another.

Karen's love for her family includes her grandchildren; her grandson, Dylan Alan Slamans, and her son, Joey, her precious granddaughter Ashlynn Faye Slamans, and her daughter Elizabeth will always be the brightest lights of her life just as she will be theirs. They all brought such joy into each other's lives. And they all inherited Karen's unfailing, optimistic, happy personality that has no boundaries, and her sweetness, charm, and love for others. And the man who completed this blessed family, the ultimate love of her life, Ronald Dwayne Prine shares a bond with Karen that will never be broken.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, December 29, 2006 at noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Gulfport with visitation from 11 a.m. until the service at the church. Karen's final resting place will be next to her beloved maternal grandmother-godmother, Etta Dean Salkowski at Southern Memorial Park in Biloxi following the service.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, O'Neal Road, Gulfport is in charge of arrangements.

View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com.

Published by The Sun Herald on Dec. 28, 2006.
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Not sure what to say?





Hi my friend...it´s been 16 years since you were called Home. I have missed you every single day of every single week of every single month of every single year. Life just hasn´t been the same here on earth. My mother passed away this year. So say hi to her for me, and show her around - and say hi to your family that´s keeping you company now - seems like I know of more people in Heaven than I do here on Earth. I love you my friend. Just please always know that ok? Never forgotten. Always loved. And Merry Christmas! Keep shining your Light down here for your awesome children. Until we speak again, love you - Christina Hope - CALIFORNIA

Christina Hope

Friend

December 22, 2022

A MIXXED LETTER TO KAREN AND TO KAREN'S FAMILY. I am sorry ahead of time because I know that I jump all over the place in my head as to who I am talking be it Karen or the family.

I had no idea you could still post to this, I thought it closed out to posting after one year. So to my surprise when I got an email notification saying there was a new posting, I guess for some reason I had not been getting those notifications. My point is I wanted Karen's family to know I think of her often still to this day, I miss my phone calls with you. I now have young grandkids ages 7, 6, and 2 1/2. The oldest two are girls and the ones that would go shopping with you, the youngest you would have to get him out in the dirt or just down on the floor and play with some big trucks, he likes anything with wheels.. There isn't a Christmas that has passed since your passing that I haven't thought of you or that I haven't had to take a few minutes to my myself just in remembrance of you, and again on Dec 29th the day you were buried because it was also Dwayne's birthday. I just wanted you to know you are not forgotten, your still in my heart, you left a space there that nobody else can fill but you, you're one of a kind and can't be replaced. I wanted all of you to know you are all in my thoughts during the holidays times every year.

With warmest regards,
Kim

Kim Sturdivant (Dwayne Prine's sister)

August 1, 2022

Hi Karen, you´ve been on my mind a lot lately. Are you trying to send me a message? You know my mom passed away in April of this year. Unexpectedly. Without notice. Maybe you could ask her what happened and let me know somehow? She and I had our issues to be sure, but I love her all the same. My brother and I are devastated. If you do see her, please tell her we are okay, and that we understand more now about her life and situation than we ever did before. Thanks Karen - you´re always a great friend to me. I miss you so much- it hurts to even think about it sometimes. Only the good die young - those words were never truer with your early passing from this life. I love you - will always love you.

Christina Hope

July 30, 2022

Hey momma you have alot of company up there with you now. Grandpaw,grandmaw,uncle benny and aunt karen.I love you and miss you. Joey

Joey Slamans

October 4, 2015

Hi Karen it's Tony. I'm a day late but I know you have met your brother yesterday. Now you have your dad and brother to keep you company for now until we all meet again. I miss ya'll and will see you soon. Tony your "Big Brother" as you use to say. :>)

P.S. of course Gail says hi and misses you too.

Anthony Casper Jr

January 13, 2015

Hey Karen - it's almost your birthday - only a half an hour (Gulfport time) to go as I'm typing this message.
I was in Gulfport in August and I got to meet your daughter Elizabeth for the first time, August 23, 2014. It was wonderful!!! She is beautiful - just like you! Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and let you know I'm thinking about you, I always do think about you..and wanted to say "happy birthday"! I'm sure the birthday cakes in Heaven are the best birthday cakes...I wish I could bake you a cake - but I'm sure the ones Up There are much better than anything I could bake for you! I love you, and I miss you so much...I'll be talking to you soon...

Christina Hope

October 24, 2014

hey momma i been thinking about you alot lately. i just wanted to say i miss you and dylan and ashlynn do to...

joey slamans

April 26, 2013

I miss you...just wanted you to know. The night sky is filled with stars and the one star that means the most to me...is you. Peace my friend...

December 25, 2012

Hey friend, just wanted you to know I am thinking of you on your birthday. Hugs! I miss you!
Love you
Chris
P.S. Thanks for everything....and thanks to your family for this special place I can leave a word or two.

October 25, 2012

Karen, I pray there is a heaven as we believe it to be.
I pray daddy is there with you. Of the two of you I know each of you will be there for each other .. lighting up the others world. And, I believe you are both so beyond what we think or feel here on earth. I imagine it is a place beyond my comprehension of peace in all things. I hope so.
Somehow baby I'm still not completely able to come to grips with the loss of you... I've always thought you were so like me baby. You believed in the good in everyone. Some may have said, as they said to me, we believed in the good of others too much. That we looked at life through "Rose colored glasses". That we did not see life as it really was. But we did. I think we see life as it is at it's worse and I have faith that if only I believe, to the best of my ability, in God, my Higher Power, I will one day feel and see that peace for eternity .. So hard to explain but I know you know what I truly feel and am saying~ It does not mean you, or I, did not {or do not} see life as it is. We did. I still do. And we were so blessed to find God's grace in everything. No matter how bad things were, we always knew things could always be worse if we did not have our religious belief and each other.
I'm so honored to be your mother. You never faltered and never said "I can't"... You lived ... not simply existed ... You were and are such a great daughter. You were and will always be the best mother in the world to your children.
Baby, You had such pure love for others. Even as you were suffering and knew you were dying... you left a message for us; simply saying "Tell mama and daddy I love them." And I know I've said this before , but that truly nearly tore me apart. I had asked over and over if you gave anyone a final message for us... Or any last word. Always I was told no. I'm sure you know that it was because of the pain of losing you some of what happened was blocked out of many's minds because it was too painful to remember. It was a year before I knew you left those words for us. Somehow I knew if it was possible you would have said "tell mama and daddy" something .... And I kept wondering and mourning. When I learned you did leave a message for us it gave me more pain but yet some closure because I KNEW you had left us a message. And you did. To me it meant you knew we were right there with you and we had our precious last words in this world. It was just like you to be thinking of us in your final moments. I literally almost fell apart. Then, almost instantly, I thanked you and God for allowing me to know your words to us. Thank you baby. Thank you God. How blessed we were and are to have a child like you!
Karen, you are an inspiration to all who knew you; know you... Your children and grandchildren, your mama, daddy, sister and brothers, your almost sister and sisters-in-laws, all your nieces, nephews, God-children, all your friends..You touched all our lives so deeply and will continue to touch our lives. You, "our" Karen, will live on in our memories forever.
I love you baby, mama~

Karen's mama~

February 16, 2012

Dear Karen
I thought of you today, but that is not so new, I think of you and miss you often. I keep looking to the sky - hoping to see you "winking" at me to let us all know you're watching in your wonderful way from afar. My world still knows of your absence, but my heart feels you're still very much here.
Merry Christmas Karen. You are and always will be missed this day and everyday.
Love you, girl!
Christina - (the kid down the street from you who moved to Alabama & then California - who hasn't been a kid for a long flipping time on any street; wink!)

December 25, 2011

Karen, I think of you each day and wonder,
do garden's grow in heaven?
Do trees, plants, flowers and roses grow?
Like you tenderly grew, here on earth?

I wonder if you've seen your daddy?
Can you make each other smile?
I know God welcomed him with open arms
for God knows the inner and outer us and see's us
through every trial.

Did you recognize each other right away? Or does that take time?

If either of you laughed or came near to one another-
the happiness you share... being together once more...I can only imagine, and smile, as your
auras reached out and instantly knew the other.

You would somehow say... "THERE'S my daddy"; and he would quickly bend forward, laugh and say in his special happy way...
"Heyyy" As his arms reached out to hug you.

You would both be so happy to see each other!
You would weep... and he would hold you close and say' It's ok baby, it's ok."

Here on earth we are blessed knowing you and daddy are together this Christmas while at the same time you are with us. watching over us.

"daddy" will always' remain so proud of His son's, daughters, grand-children and me. He loves each of you... Just as each of you love
and have always been so proud of him.

One day we will all be together again with all the rest of our family.
It will be like it was when everyone came here... 'home for Christmas'...
Together~ filled with laughter and love... When life was so very special..

Right now neither of you will ever suffer again. And that thought gives us peace.
This Christmas that is our wish... Our prayer~ I love you baby, mama~

December 24, 2011

To: Susanne Bacchetta
I'm so glad you wrote your loving thoughts about Karen. She spoke so often of you and yall's friendship. I'll contact you soon... Karen's mama~

October 27, 2011

Dear Karen's family:
We all miss her so much. According to the Bible, There are Angels unaware in our midst. I know this to be true, beacause I have met one. I was a stranger on the internet who needed help learnng how to use the computer. Karen spent a lot of time online assisting me until I could use my computer. I will never forget her. She is truly a MEMORY PERSON. (Those are the folks we will never forget).

Karen, there are so many people who will miss you, however we all know when OUR FATHER calls us home, We must
always HONOR OUR FATHER and obey. Won't it be wonderful to snuggle up in his lap?
See you in the morning.
Susanne Bacchetta
Lugoff, South Carolina 29078

October 26, 2011

Hey Baby, I know daddy must now be with you. We miss you and him but it eases our thoughts and worries believing if we can't have ya'll here with us, at least the two of you are together until I come to join you. You are both in my thoughts, my heart, and always in my prayers. Too late now but for my sake I wish I had went first... Immediately though I think of how ya'll would have been left behind missing me and hurting because I was the one gone... So instead I trust God and know He makes no mistakes... Still, I can't help but wish nothing had ever happened and that we were all together alive, here, on earth... sharing our family love, laughter and respect for each other.
Today is Oct. 24... Tomorrow is your birthday... Maybe daddy needed to be there... to share this birthday with you... exactly 2 months before Christmas.
Joey is soon bringing his two children ... Your first two grandchildren over here to visit. And Karen, Elizabeth's Jathan is so much like you and Elizabeth in personality and looks!! A sweet, adorable boy... lol.. He came to visit me when I was in the hospital not long ago... I was in critical condition but seeing them meant so much to me. He has your and Elizabeth's looks, personality,laugh~ I can also see Alan in him. He can make you smile no matter how you feel... and seeing them gave me strength. Just think Karen ... "your" grandson... A part of ya'll just as Joey's daughter and son are part of him, you and Alan... and a part of all of us... They will always be his and your only children and only ya'll will share that forever!
Karen! Wow baby~ In all my life I have never seen this happen ever! I've always' heard a person's eyes are the window's of their soul. (The Gospel of Matthew: 6:22)~ If I was unsure before I no longer doubt it. Elizabeth's eye shape and color, everything has changed completely. Totally different now... I look at and into them and they look exactly like your beautiful eyes... Sapphire blue that sparkle and twinkle with a life of their own. So sweet... intelligent... caring... such deep love within them... Except... only one thing I'd change if I could... The look inside them... Deep within them and for all to see and feel... they seem so sad... anyone who reads her letters to you can tell how much she loves and misses you. My words overwhelm me... I wish I knew how to make that sadness go away~ Perhaps Alan can help. I'll try and do all I can to ease her sadness baby~
I know you are so pleased with all she is... And Joey... what a good father and what a man! They are both all you and Alan ever wanted them to be... I know you love them beyond words and are so proud of them... You have always been and will always be such a great mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter... and baby, now and forever... you'll always be my baby~. I love you Karen... You have a positive influence over every day of my life~ mama~

October 24, 2011

Hey Mama. I miss you so bad. It has been a hard couple of years without you. There are so many things I want to tell you. Even tho you already know it all cause I know your watching over us keeping us safe. I still want to pick up the phone sometimes just to call and tell you how my day was and it hurts more than anything that I can't do it. Jathans birthday just passed. He is 3. I never thought I would be raising my child without you here to help me. I hope I am half the mother you were. I had a dream about you the other night. It was so real. I was at our old house in northwood hills and you were in the kitchen cleaning with the music on in the background and when I saw you I just hugged you and wouldn't let go you were here it was like you had never left. I wish you could have met JJ he reminds me of you in so many ways. He has your smile. And he would have loved you so much. He knows your in heaven cause when I show him your picture he tells me "that's your mama she's in heaven" it breaks my heart everytime. I love you so much. So so much! I'll see you in my dreams!

Elizabeth Slamans

March 16, 2011

good morning baby~
As you already know we have been having really worrisome news. This morning though is like a beautiful spring day... Filled with hope, love, and inspiration... Everything is so much better! I believe you were here with us, knew what was happening, helping us through it like we, as a family always did for one another, and, as always, you inspire us whether on earth or in heaven. You baby, are our special connection to heaven. It is almost like the main worry (at least for now) vanished in a blink of an eye. And our prayers have been answered.
We love you baby~ mama~

mama

November 10, 2010

Happy belated birthday Karen. Just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you...still...and always always will, my friend. I miss you sooooo very much in the physical world, on this Earth, but I feel your presence every bit as much - your kind Spirit comforts me more than words could ever say. Love you...Chris

Christina Hope

October 27, 2010

Today is your day baby! It is now 1:09 P. M. You were born to us on Oct 25th at 9:09 P. M. It seems like such a short time ago! The time we had together will never be as long as we wished it was.
I guess there must be stages that our mourning and missing each other takes us through. I've had no regrets, until lately. Then I began wondering if there was more I could have or should have done with and for you. Maybe even saved your life ...
Could I have done differently? With the Grace of God I have always accepted whatever came my way in life but sometime's I'm now wandering about.. searching the core of my being, hoping, truly before God... that I did all I could. This may be a part of the grieving process, I don't know... I do know my heart feels like it has been ripped out and now it's as though I can't yet accept there was nothing I could do to change the outcome. In my next breath I truly believe, Like I've always done, that if my love for you was a measure of giving all that I could then I can never wonder if I gave my all... I even have to make my thoughts again recognize that my faith in God stays with us and it is through our faith that I stay relatively strong in my belief in Him that has led me to trust in all that I do, and accept His guidence. I believe that. Yet I still feel so torn at times.
Karen, I've loved you way before you were ever born and I always will. I often smile at so many visions I see of you throughout our lives. I feel such love and protection for you! It is unending. At times almost like if you walked through the door I would think for a moment the loss of you had been a bad dream or something unexplainable but you were still here. instantly I would say Karen! Baby! And all the things mothers would say if they had a "second chance"... and all during that time I'd be reaching out to you to hold you close... Thanking God the loss was not real!
I was so blessed to have you much longer than I thought I would baby!.. I expected me to go first, under the circumstances, many years ago. But I didn't . He kept me here for a reason. I thought it was because ya'll all needed me so much. There was no one else to take my place and no matter what has or will happen in my life I will always thank God for allowing me to be ya'll's mother and to be there for each of you when you wanted or needed me... I hope, as a mother, each of you know I gave as much as humanly possible to put my children first and be the kind of mother God wanted me to be.
Karen, I will always think of you as a inspiration to us all.... With one breath I thank God you were born... With the same breath I feel such pain and loss and blame for all you went through. Then the next moment I realize, again, you were God's creation and He choose us to be your earthly parents. I'm in awe He did and eternally grateful.
Though I ask your forgiveness for bringing you into this world to later have to go through all you suffered, I also am so thankful, and grateful you were born to us! You lived and laughed, loved and cared so much for all of us. You were a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, friend and child. I thank God, and you, for every moment we all shared.
You are my child baby. You always will be... And because you are I search within myself to try to find an answer as to why God so blessed and entrusted me to be your mother! I guess it was because I love you, and all my children, more than my life and my faith in Him is beyond words .
You will live in my heart and my memories forever Karen...
And... Just in case I haven't told you often enough.. lol. I love you baby...
Happy Birthday Karen!!! ~ from mama and daddy

Kathleen Casper

October 25, 2010

Hi Baby, You are always on my mind but some holidays bring my memories of you so close it's as if time had turned back... You always loved the 4th of July and went all out for the children like you always did on all special days... And they remember all those times that you made their days... their lives... so special.
There were some fantastic fireworks on television this year Karen, and every time one went off I could imagine you watching from heaven.... to me I thought "Oh yessss... a celebration of the birth of our nation but now, when I see it, I'll also think of it as being a celebration of your life... of all you were and will forever be."
And guess what? No heartbroken tears to rip me apart this time... Our shared memories have overcome the tortuous heartache... And now... most times... I can accept that you will always be with us... But... Just above the human level.
With our memories and God's grace I'm learning more and more how to accept life as it is and not as I want it to be. I love you so much baby... I always will... mama~

July 5, 2010

Here I am again baby... I think I will always return to your guestbook.. I wrote the following poem for you today, June 3rd, 2010. I feel so close to you everywhere I am... you are there... I love you baby...

You Are Always There~
When my world... has seemed to end,
And too many thoughts fill my mind;
I think of my blessings of you Karen,
And sweet memories I find.

Those thoughts ease my soul,
My anguish and my pain;
And all the memories we made,
Is soothing...
like fresh , fallen rain.

In these times... of heavenly grace,
When everything seems so right;
I feel lifted higher and higher,
Closer to you..
and God's almighty might.

God listens,
and hears my every plea,
He speaks to my soul...
and answers my every prayer;
I feel you so close and safe Karen,
You... and He... are everywhere.
love by mama~
Author: Kathleen Casper

June 3, 2010

Good Morning Karen~ I look at the web page made for you and the girl looks so like you... And hearing Elvis singing How Great Thou Art as the page opens makes it complete... I wrote you a personal "letter" that I know you already know what is in there... I decided not to put it in the guest book but instead to save it for your personal web site... I'll still, though rarely, write you in here, though mainly it will be on "your" site... The other day I found out with all you were going through, your last minutes on earth, you drew from all that was left within you and said... "tell mama and daddy I love them".... Even at the last moment of life you thought of us... I will always be so in awe of you baby... All that you were... all you will forever be... I still cry... I think I always will... But mingled with my tears of sorrow that you are gone is my enormous total love for you... and my one salvation is I do believe you are with Jesus in Heaven. We will meet you there in the not so distant future... I miss you baby every day of my life, and when the tears stream down, I can hear you say... Don't cry mama.... I'm alright"... And I cry silently more.... You are such a part of me. Your last message to us was, again, "tell mama and daddy I love them"... And to you baby I am asking God... Jesus and his mother Mary... to please hold you close and tell you mama and daddy got your message... It touched our hearts and soul's deeper than anyone can imagine... and to please bless you and keep you surrounded by their love and our love... I miss you so much Karen... And I love you more than I can ever say... You, our little girl, will always be my baby and my inspiration... Through eternity, mama and daddy~

April 22, 2010

We sure do miss you Aunt Karen. Thinking of you always.....

Kelly Sharpe

March 26, 2010

PATHWAY FROM HEAVEN

Karen, these last few day's my thoughts seem to easily drift away,
I function, I live, and though I laugh, at times I feel I barely exist;
Then this morning, while still deep in the night, I gazed toward heaven,
And Baby, I saw such an amazing sight.. A light, shinning out of the mist.

It brought back the night you were buried and a raging rainstorm covered Gulfport and Biloxi,
As though there was uncontrollable weeping because you went away...
So I Goggled the weather,
Praying your gravesite was dry, a sign you were ok, and behold!! A light...
In a single dry pathway, straight from heaven to Southern Memorial Park where you lay.

A gentle touch of peace, but not contentment, began to grow, and just as suddenly, it was gone..
screaming without sound tore through my brain and body, I couldn't accept what I knew to be true;
We can never again confide our deepest thoughts, and I can never again ease your hurt,
And earthly pain. I will never again hear you laugh, or call me "mama"... Oh Karen my baby, I MISS YOU...

But in God's mercy, (though sometimes my faith slightly waivers), My belief is still strong enough...
To where I turn begging to Him and in return He seems to give me a touch of salvation;
Yet, I want more! I want peace, contentment. Not when I die... but here.. now... And because I know
Wanting is just wishes, it leaves my heart, my brain, my belief, filled with trepidation...

I try to overcome any questions of my faith.. and without doubt 99 9/10 % of my faith remains strong,
While the 1/10 % of doubts leaves me in agony. Wondering why I can't just totally accept everything!
Is it because so much was written by man? Or because slowly, so slowly, little things emerge as truth,
I totally believe in God, in a Higher Power. I believe without Him life would be worth nothing.

I believe there is and was Mary, Joseph, and Jesus but I sometimes wonder ... was all perfection?
In Their every thought, word, and deed? If They were human did they not have one sin, one human fallacy?
Like we humans have? I yearn for an unanswerable truth while I'm here,on earth, meanwhile my belief's...
Still keep me strong enough to turn to God, to "Them" for blessings of peace..regardless of the intricacies.

And if They erred, as humans often do, As long as They obeyed God, that does not make Them unholy...
To me... If it were true I would probably feel They also felt and understood on an earthly level what I feel ..
Yet, I would know God blessed Them beyond compare with sanctity and gift's that only He and They can bestow...
And I do believe Jesus took you to be by his side in Heaven because he love's you so. To me that is real.

And so this Christmas I pray for you to be in peace... To know we love you more than words can say,
That we too find peace, stay faithful, and accept whatever comes our way...

Karen, just know every bit of my times of struggling to accept you are forever gone has been worth, every agony to have had you, "our" Karen, My baby, for each day, every moment since you were born....
God did bless each of us... Merry Christmas Baby, I love you... mama~

December 27, 2009

Merry Christmas Karen. I miss you. You are in my thoughts often, and close to my heart always.

Christina Hope

December 19, 2009

Happy Birthday Baby!
Words can't tell you how sweet the memories are;
Of every thing we ever did,
We touched hearts, together or apart, near or far.

And now through forever,
our worlds have no boundaries;
Our souls touch,
And through our souls we feel and see.

Something's, little things, big things,
Remind me of you;
Happy things, sad things, all things,
Everything, no matter what I do.

Today I've thought a lot about your 16th Birthday,
I don't know why but it's been with me all day,
Maybe it's the "Lil Tagalong cheerleading" doll your sister found,
She looked so much like you, Sweet, precious, lovable in every way.

Life sometimes seems like an illusionary dream,
unreal because you can't hold onto it,
Yet so very, very real,
Because we can't totally let go of it.

Like a fairytale, and you're my little princess,
You, sparkling with beauty, and dancing all around;
bring laughter, music, singing...
Can you hear that? Can you hear the sounds?

Today is a special day for me, for us,
The day you were born, such a gift I can't describe;
I remember the ride home with you from Jackson,
How I looked at you.. with so much love I started to cry.

You were 3 days old, we were bringing our "little girl" home,
Words of the song "You're the reason I'm living" entered my mind;
You looked up at me with those beautiful blue eyes, and I started singing.
"You're the reason I'm living.. You're the breath that I take." God was so kind.

He gave us you.
And now, no matter how life evolves, or what the future brings;
The wonder of you, of every part of life we shared;
I will always know we were blessed... And baby, my heart still sings.

Time is passing quickly, slowly.
We love you...
Author: Mama,
Kathleen Casper

October 25, 2009

My thought and prayers are with you Kathleen. I feel your pain and my heart hurt's for you. What gift you gave to Karen.. your time... the most valuable thing on earth.
With love,
Sandra Beaugez

Sandra Beaugez

October 6, 2009

Thinking of you baby, with fun, sweet, loving thoughts... I so often wish I could pick up the phone and call you... Or hear it ring... wishing it could be you and I could hear that happy lilt to your voice with that laughter from the moment you said: "mama" ~


This poem is a mixture of wondeful memories of being a mother and being blessed throughout my life by the love I shared with each of my children.

My love for my children.. An unbreakable bind...

Mother and Child
A cloudy day begins to change,
Shadows chased away by the sun,
The day brightens.

A child smiles and bows it's head,
Their smile turning to sudden laughter,
All your earthly problems lighten.

Lashing rain turns into...
A gentle pitter-patter. Then stops;
As heaven and earth is touched by a rainbow.

Colors of the universe made ever more brilliant,
Radiating from a child's face,
As trust and love for you makes it glow.

A chilly day quickly spreads into warmth,
Parent-child love fill's our world,
While tiny feet follow, wherever I go.

Small faces beam when they look at me...
And I give each child a hug and kiss...
because I love them so.

When little hand's reach out to me,
I swoop them up so close to my heart,
There they feel happy, safe, protected, secure,

God placed each child into my care,
for me to dedicate to them my life, my all,
And He gave me the greatest blessing's I'll ever know...
Each child's love... Forever indestructible, Forever innocent,
Forever pure....
_______________
Author: Kathleen Casper

August 31, 2009

Thought's of "Karen"
Oh Lord my God, I still live in awesome wonder,
My days and nights are torn, so all asunder.
My mind, my body filled with sadness, and tears,
My nights filled with thoughts, of gone-by years.

When I close my eyes, waiting for peace to come,
My mind, my body, can't find ease, and I wish that I could run.
But run to where? To what? to who? And what good would it do?
My thoughts, my anguish stays within me, with no place to escape to.

I want to lay my head on my pillow and feel oblivion, feel numb,
I close my eyes for rest, for peace, for sleep to come.
But darkness brings your face so clearly before me,
I want you to come closer, and pretend it really is you I see.

I want every moment we shared relived; again and again,
I want... I want... But I can't bear the pain.
Lord, You know how hard it's been these last three years,
She is so close, then fades from sight through my flood of tears.

The hopes and dreams we shared for "someday", never goes away.
The longing for "someday", is with me every day.
I hold every moment we shared, close within my heart,
It makes life more bearable, for as long as we must be apart.

The holidays you loved, we love, draw ever near,
your birthday, thanksgiving, Christmas, a new year.
Help me Dear Lord to know Jesus so loved her in his special way,
He called her to be near him, for eternity, to share his birthday.

Please keep her safe, and if she should cry, wipe away her tears?
If she becomes afraid,
let her feel me holding her, with you; as we brush away her fears?
I am weak oh God, I believe, and yet some things I wonder about,
It is then I need to hear you to say, you never have to doubt.

Take care of my loved ones, until we meet again,
Until there are no more tears, no more pain.
Stand beside me, help me to be strong,
Let me live life, and do no wrong.

Forgive me God, for any hurt I've ever done,
As I ask you to forgive others, each and every one.
Let blessing reign upon us, Let caring pave our way,
Let truth and love abide within us, today and every day.

~Author~
Karen's mama, Kathleen Casper

August 9, 2009

To Those That Love & Remember Karen
And there are so many;
I always find myself thinking of Karen, and of her family. Not wanting to intrude on your lives or your time - I thought I would leave a note here for all of you to read. After reading all your heartfelt entries, the letters to Karen and poems, you have all confirmed what I have for so long believed:
That if and it is a BIG if: IF I live to be as loved as Karen is by all of you, her family and friends, I will have lived a good life. IF I achieve even a tenth of her wealth in Spirit and Faith, then I will have achieved something worthwhile, that is for sure. In so many ways, both past and present, Karen is my role model. Her strength and tenacity through the tough times in her Life, her ability to endure with a positive attitude and that charming smile of her's - and most of all her dedication and commitment to her family and children - are all attributes to strive for and are what makes her such a special person. I miss her so much, and even now, the world seems so much emptier. My "North Star" is missing on Earth, yet when I look up in the sky at night - I see her shining brightly, still giving me that comforting sense of direction when I feel lost. I miss her so.
I just wanted you all to know.
Please feel free to contact me anytime.
Christina Hope (formerly known as Chris Clark, who lived on Academy Ave in 1972, and then in 1973 - moved to Birmingham, Alabama. The last time I saw her was in late 1983, when my grandma passed away and I came to Gulfport for the funeral. I stayed with Karen for a night. I met Alan, and Joey was a baby. Elizabeth hadn't been born yet. The last time I spoke with Karen, was in September 2005, right after Hurricane Katrina hit, I just wanted to make sure she was okay. Sadly, I had no idea that was to be the last time I would talk to her.)

Christina Hope

April 26, 2009

Happy Valentine's Day Baby!
I know who else is strongly thinking of you on this special day you two shared and he is still loving you more than words can say. And he always will. Alan keeps you in his heart and mind asleep, in his dreams, awake, wherever he goes; in or out of Mississippi. No matter who is with him... You are the one who holds his heart, mind and soul. You truly make and made an everlasting impression on so many people in so many ways...
Our entire family misses you so much. They come in and read the Guest Book but somehow they say they simply can't write because the hurt of missing you is still so overwhelming. Still, there is not a day that goes by that they don't think of you... And talk to you... And laugh or have tears well up in their eyes and down their cheeks as their memories come flooding back to them. And there are so many memories... So much fun and laughter.. So many big and little things that bring you back to them... And all are such loving memories and thoughts.
For me, every breath I take I breathe for both of us.... And when my last breath is gone I know you will be rushing towards me... with your face filled with love and laughter and your eyes sparkling, beautiful and so filled with love and happiness saying... "It's ok mama... I't's ok." And, seeing you, I know everything will be... ok...
Karen... me, you, Elizabeth and ashlyn have so many way's alike that makes us who we are that it is pure amazing to me... Now of course Joey, Dillon and Jnathan I'm sure will always also have those same "ways" that will always bind us all together.. Like Elizabeth said, the memories of the many Eskimo Kisses... The Butterfly kisses... the snuggles and tight and gentle hugs... The laughter and pure happiness and strength we all share in so many ways are with us constantly. The strength and the fragile fiber of our very being is as one. And I told Elizabeth she is the Futures other "us"... Though I always thought of you as being the "Futures other me"... Elizabeth is so like you in so many ways....
We love you Karen... Happy Valentines Day again baby, from mama, daddy, and our combined entire family!

Kathleen Casper

February 14, 2009

Mama,
I don't even know where to start. I miss you so much. It gets harder everyday. Jathan is getting so big and I just wish you were here so he could know you the way that we all did. Everything I see or do reminds me of you. I wish I could hear your voice and for you to just tell me that everything is going to be ok. I need you now more than ever. I miss my friend. I miss the way you could make me smile even when I didn't want to. I show Jathan pictures of you everyday so that he will always know that you are his grandma. I know your right here with me always by my side. I love you so much and I always will. Sometimes I can still smell your perfume and I know your here with me. And I know your haunting daddy lol because he says he sees you everywhere he goes. (Good one mama) There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about you or wish that you were here. I love you and I miss you and you will always be my best friend! I miss our hugs that were so tight we couldn't breathe and our butterfly kisses and eskimo kisses lol. I have your strength and your good will and I am so thankful that you are my mama.

Elizabeth Slamans

January 11, 2009

Happy New Years Baby...
Since you've been gone here we are, another new year... Much stay's the same.... Yet there is a blessing within me from the first glimmer of real acceptance since you've been gone. And I feel you found a way to give that to me.. somehow...
Baby Girl, If we had one wish that could come true for you this January 1st, 2009, we would include all the loving, happy things that has happened in the here and hereafter in your life and wish you total serenity, internal joy that we hope is yours forever, peace within, contentment, and always sprinklings of laughter that was all such a part of you... And that we remember so well ... All you are, and were, we carry with us.... Every sound, every memory, YOU ARE, and will always be, a part of us just as where you are we are a part of you. Above all Karen, we wish you all God's Blessings..
We love you... mama and daddy...

Kathleen Casper

January 1, 2009

Hey Baby...
I've always felt Christmas was a day of Joy and sadness, and now, these last two years, it has simply multiplied.
As always we celebrate and morn this day in honor of God giving His only "begotten" son to all of us. Knowing that son, 'our' Jesus died for every one of our sins. We also morn and celebrate in the most loving and honorable truest sense of the word, the December 25, Christmas day, 2006 they took you to share in this... our saddest, happiest, holiest of days of the year. You will always be a part of us, with us, and deeply loved and missed by each of us every moment of our lives.
Your sister Cynthia is down for a few days. She still loves her prestigious job... But you know all of this.. Cynthia's daughter Kathleen is now living in Pass Christian with her husband and two children, Lily, and Colorado. Cynthia's son Michael and Yolain and their two son's are living in Gulfport. Her son Jimmy and his family are living in Gulfport, and their children are growing up so quickly. Her son Chris and his wife Tammy bought their first home last week. This will be their first Christmas in it and their daughter loves it! And lastly her son R.J. is happy and well.... And has a serious girl-friend... And they are all so close and caring towards their mother and her, their grandmother... And she is right there for each of them.. Just as you, your sister and your brothers always are for ya'll's families. They are all so loving, well mannered, and helpful.
Your brother Anthony is Site Foreman over a huge oil-rig off Texas ( His official job title is as high as it can be. The only thing now is, as the years pass, more seniority.).. His children are doing well too. Kelly has her Master's Degree, and her daughter Katelyn is so smart and so pretty... She still looks like her mama.. Anthony 4th overcomes any obstacle he ever faces. Tonya had her baby, another little boy, just a few weeks ago. And Tonya's older little boy was very ill but is now better.. I can only believe you were close by...
Your brother Steven has lot's of determination and inner strength and continues on through so much pain... but he is really doing well. So is Stephanie, her husband and getting sooo big son are down here for the Holiday's. His son Steven, is doing really good and their children are too. Jennifer. and her dream of having a baby is now coming true. It is now just the waiting of a few more months for the "Blessed Event" to happen.
Benny is doing well, like always, and so are his two children, Jessica and Benny 3rd... Jessica's children are growing so fast... Benny 3rd's daughter Briana is her daddy's light of his life and his heart and soul. It is amazing to see them together... And so adorable.... But then, you see all this.
Your Joey got married. I met his wife Stephanie and you would like her a lot. She has two sons, both so well behaved, and lovable.
I know you watch over us Karen and you see how your Elizabeth's little boy is doing... It seems he is growing so big so fast doesn't it? And your two precious grandchildren, Dylan and Ashlyn! Ahhh... I can just imagine the love you feel for them and send to them.. They are two of the smartest, most lovable children ever... But all the family has received that blessing of loving others and having high intelligence...
We all miss you so much Karen.. We all have such precious, special memories of you to hold forever close to our hearts. And now Baby, you have such an abundance of love from the best of both worlds. .. Heaven and Earth...
Can you feel the magic when I sing Christmas songs to you? With You? I do...
Merry Christmas Sweetie, from all of us.
With love, Mama and Daddy~

Kathleen Casper

December 25, 2008

Hey Karen!
At last I can tell you some good news... I can hear you now, saying how you know it has been hard but letting me know how glad you are that at last I'm able to 'talk to you' without so many tears. And, instead, simply laugh with you the way we always did... I'm beginning to once again laugh about so many funny, happy times we shared. Sometimes it's an automatic mental memory. Other times it comes from looking at pictures... Either way it leads my thoughts to you. I was so lost within myself I said I accepted the loss of you, and in ways I had... but until I recently went through many, many pictures, and separated them to give to each one of my children, even memories that made me smile brought such a surge inside me that I could never hold back the tears... Now it is different, changed yet the same. And I feel you so close. Encouraging me, letting me know I'm on the right path...
I had sooo many pictures baby... Although I've given many to ya'll through the years I still had so many more. And I dreaded having to go through them! I wasn't sure if I could handle it... seeing you... yet not have it be real. Strange as it may seem though it was as if you were here, looking at them with me. At times I felt I was talking to you and you were communicating with me. [somehow... maybe by phone or that "mental telepathy" thing we always shared}. But you were by my side like always and as sweet, loving, funny and so happy... Just 'you'.. as you always were...
It took about two weeks to go through about 3/4 of them and each picture brought different emotions out of me.. And as my tears would start I would think of how you would so want me not to do that. I didn't think I could be the same mama as always that gave the impression I could handle anything... That was always a "front"... Mama's have to appear to stay rock strong so she can be there for her children, while inside she doesn't know how much more Lord, how much more hurt and sadness can a human withstand? Now we have always known He is not going to give us more then we can bear but sometimes... Oh sometimes... a trickle of self-pity has led to borderline collapse.. But only borderline. Always the thought of what any weakness on my part would do to my children would make me gather enough strength to push my anguish aside so I could still be the dependable, 'lean on me' 'mama', that I have always been. Only now, this time, I wasn't handling everything alone... I had you by my side. Every few days Karen, without me really realizing it, I was learning to accept "the will of God".... And though it was not a conscience thought, I was more and more [with every picture] refreshing every memory of you, of us, of 'our' family....] gathering so many precious memories of you, your sister and brothers that the emptiness from the loss of you began to be replaced by comforting, downright laughter and love as I let all the years of our life as family fill my soul and mind. Now baby, everything is in a better perceptive. Like you calling me and turning a song way up so I could hear it on the phone and get me to start singing it with you... And that oh so funnnny joke you told at McDonalds on hwy 49... it was naughty but soooo funny!!... Or the time Cynthia made you [and me] blush when we were in a restaurant and several firemen walked in .... And you were so quick with a blushing, quick , funny few words... We all laughed so hard with the both of you! Out of the mouth of babes or so they say! lol...
Well baby, in just another few days it will be Christmas... And I intend, with all the good, and the strength within me, to do what you have seen me do all my life and that is to do my best to truly accept whatever happens to us... I'm sure going to give it my all mainly because I've always thought you can selfishly hold a departed loved one to this earth by not letting them go... From the first I tried, but emotionally I just couldn't do it. Now, I think I can do better... I can let you go enough so you can move on to a higher plane and keep the essence of your love, happy memories, just everything you were, locked forever in my heart and in my mind. But, baby, I might need a tiny bit more closeness to you until we get through this Christmas.. But I know, I really believe, [and I'll do and give all that's within me to make it happen] the new year will bring you freedom and peace will reign... I love you, I'll always love you baby, mama

Kathleen Casper

December 20, 2008

Happy Birthday Baby...
I always think of you and today was no exception... It was a mixture of joy and sadness...
Originally this entry was submitted for your birthday October 25. I'll explain about that at the end of this entry...
On your birthday some of the words that follow are some of the things I wrote to you on your special day...
quote:
"A little over an hour ago on this month, and day, when you came into this world and blessed my life with the special happiness of having you as my daughter... Even the pain of losing you will never equal the joy of having you with me these full, but few years. And those few years fill my heart and will last through eternity...
I intended to write you a poem... You loved them so much...But I couldn't stop my tears long enough to do it... Instead, I am inserting the poem I wrote you late one night at the hospital on "scrap" paper and left it with the nurse to give you... I walked into your hospital room after a critical episode for you.. for us... And, as I approached your bed... gazing down at you and being so overwhelmed by you, my daughter, your goodness.. your strength... your inner and outer beauty... And how blessed I was to have you... The words started pouring from my heart and flooding my mind. I went to the nursing station, a nurse gave me a pencil and a piece of paper... I went back to your room and the words just flowed from my heart and soul onto the paper... When the nurse gave it to you... Read it to you when you first awoke, you (and your nurse ) later told me you both started crying.. At first I was upset because I thought I upset you and I said "Oh Baby! I'm sorry... I didn't mean to make you cry.: And you said.. "No mama... I wasn't crying because it upset me.. I was crying because of the way you feel about me... How much you love me... And the way I feel about you... The nurse was crying because the words showed such special love between us. It touched me, and her, so deeply... I love you mama"...
Karen, your sister and brothers, your daddy, and your precious children Joey and Elizabeth wanted me to read it at your funeral service at St Joseph's Catholic Church... But I couldn't... So father read it... He touched each of our hearts hroughout the entire Service. And he let it known he was touched as well... I know you were there so you know what a beautiful sermon it was. And baby, my gosh I don't know how I would have survived without having him to speak with.
Now little girl... I wanted to put a copy of that picture here; but I was not able too. The picture resembled Joey and Elizabeth... and you... as the angel always and forever watching over them... Protecting them... and guiding them until you all meet again in heaven... And, I wanted to put a copy of those Michael Jackson;s lyrics to "I'll be there" into your guestbook but that is against the rules... It took awhile for me to realize why your entry for your birthday October 25, did not show up... I thought I would send it today with a prayer telling you once again how thankful I am and will always be for having you as my daughter... an amazing gift from God...

Baby, I always thought I would go first... And you... my child... would live on as "The Future's other me"... And now it is Elizabeth who will be your "Future's.... other you"...

As I read this poem again I feel it all so deeply.. And I wonder still
"what wonder have I wrought, in this, my beloved child?"
How could I be so very blessed to have you as my child?... You, my baby, will always inspire me in every way... God blessed me beyond my comprehension when he choose me as your mother...
I love you so much Karen... mama~

Dedicated to Karen
The original Web Page has the poem and picture described above with the song I'll Be There sung by Michael Jackson.~you always said that song reminded you of "us."
As you know baby, This is not a long poem... but it covers our lifetime together and through eternity...

The Future's Other Me~
Today I stood beside your bed~
And gazed into your eyes~~
I saw the beauty deep within~
Then slowly realized~~

Before me is my life's own blood~
The future's other me~~
I wonder if you feel the tug~
Can you sense what I can see?~~

This precious individual~
Who faces life head-on~~
Who's conquered every challenge~
From the first day you were born~~

Always with a belief in God~
Always with a happy smile~~
What wonder have I wrought~~
In this.. my beloved child~~~
Happy Birthday baby... "
and added to that, this Thanksgiving Day my mind brims over with thoughts ans love for you.
I love you baby~~~
Mama~~~

kathleen casper

November 28, 2008

November 13, 2008

Well, I find myself thinking of you alot since that Xmas you went home. And like always, when I do, I smile a big smile! You always had that effect on poeple. I really miss sitting with you at your kitchen bar and talking like girlfriends. You are my Aunt and one of my best friends too!! I'm so glad I had the privledge of knowing you!! Just think of all the little girls out there who don't have an Aunt Karen! I feel sad for them! You are always so beautiful!!!! Even on your... what you would say, Bad Days. I love seeing Elizabeth!! It's like being in a room with you!! With a few slight differences of course!! hehe I know you are watching down on us all and you hear all of our prayers. In a way, it feels really good to know when my times comes to go home... you will be there to greet me through those gates. You're in our hearts always!!


Love you, Kathleen

Kathleen Pace

August 11, 2008

My daughter, Karen
When my daughter, Karen, died Christmas Day 2006.. I felt I needed to find something for her and her children, me and the rest of our family to see, that hopefully would comfort us. And I found a perfect picture on the Internet.
The day she was buried I wanted to lay down beside her and stay there... The picture shows a girl that looked so much like Karen, and a mixture of her daughter Elizabeth... Elizabeth was only 12 at the time her mother first became ill... and she never left her mothers side voluntarily throughout the many days and nights that followed... She was always close by until her mother died and she is truly a wonder in the way she loves her mother and has her mothers outlook and strength. The "girl" in the picture... [Karen] is sitting on a rock in a peaceful garden... A cat is curled up by her feet... It simply looks like and symbolizes Karen... Elizabeth's love for her mother... and me [the cat] wanting to stay by her side to comfort and protect her always.
Karen's son Joey was always close to her too. He is seen symbolically in another, yet unsent, "page" that I will include in this guest book in the very near future.
I hope all who sees this "page"... and hears the song... will feel it like our family does.
Here is the link to that picture with Elvis Presley [Karen and Elizabeth loved his singing], singing How Great Thou Art... A song sang at Karens funeral..

Click Here: ... Karen ...

The html, http://bronxtags.com/112.html can clicked on or copied and pasted into a browser if the above "Karen" click on doesn't work.
When we listen to this let us all who believe in prayer say a prayer for all our loved ones who are still with us in our hearts...

Karen's mama~

July 6, 2008

Well Karen, Here I am again baby.
This time with my deepest inner thoughts written to you and our Lord.. Thanking Him for giving us you... And thanking you for giving me some inner peace with the conversation we had in early October, 2006... Two months before you died...
I woke while it was still dark outside tonight.. It seemed I could hear you calling me... Softly ... Almost a whisper... But maybe it was only a thought... Or maybe it was my heart feeling you so near. I miss you so much and tears won't not stop flowing from my eyes... So many memories... But that is a cleansing of my heart... Each time the tears flow I'm mourning the horror you went through... Then "YOU" come through with love, laughter, and oh so many special times we shared throughout the years. Today is July 3nd, 2008.. And I'm thinking so much of when you first took ill on that July 4th/5th, 1999... That night still seems so unreal... No warning... Only a screaming reality...
In the hospital Emergency Room as I looked at you dying... The doctors telling us you would not live ... that there was nothing they could do for you... Nothing anyone could do. I wanted to pick you up and run away from the hospital to keep you safe... A deep part of me seemed on the edge of going to pieces...
Karen, I didn't think I could stay strong for you when you needed me most... Or for your sister and brothers, or for your daddy who needed me to hold all their hopes and beliefs steady.... until I felt how much more Lord?... Please help me... Please save her... Don't let my fear show on my face... Keep my hands from showing their trembling... Make my legs hold me up.. Give me strength to go on for my baby.. For my family... They truly depend upon me to show them everything will be ok... That there is hope...
Lord, I'm not ready to lose a child... I know I never will be but if she goes my mind, everything in me will dissipate ... And all I am that is strong or worthy will be no more. We all love her more then the mind can imagine.. Our blood runs thick between us to intertwine our hearts..
Lord, You have blessed Karen with a strong, unfaltering belief in You... And it has given her strength that has helped us all... Please give me strength to gather an outward calmness from within so she will see and feel my belief in You too... And so my family will feel our strength and it will steady their every thought and prayer for her to survive.. We need you Lord like we've never needed you before. Help us... She's my baby ... She's my baby...
That was my prayers to you Lord, that July 4th/5th 1999 and those same prayers have been said so many more times in the years to come. And You did give me the strength to be strong for them... You gave all of us strength to carry on with our faith in You, dear Lord...
That July night was the beginning of a horrific time of minutes, hours, days, years. Enveloping our very existence... But somehow... You saw us through every critical second. Over and over when it seemed to the doctors Karen could not possibly survive another minute... You showed us your love for us when we needed it most and she made it through every single time... And to me, the family and the doctors.... she did it with such an unbelievable will... And I'm sure it was all guided by Your hand... Her gentleness... her smile ... her love.. acceptance... her belief in You... her caring for her family... Not wanting us to suffer by seeing her suffer... and her strength to survive against every nightmare episode... Just... Her... And thank you Lord for all you gave her to make her "Our Karen"... And oh my goodness how much I thank you for the wonderful gift of her... For her life ... But also for blessing me with the wonder of being her mother... Her "mama"...
As you know Lord, Karen almost did not make it into this world... but she did... It seemed to me at times when she was so ill or had life so hard that maybe I had been selfish wanting her to be born against all odds... Maybe if I had been less selfish she would never have been born and would never have suffered... Then my belief in You makes me come back to the understanding that everything depends upon Your will... I still go through this waffling back and forth but more and more, from something she said to me .. , In early October, 2006, Two months or so before she died, something in me suddenly caused me to ask her... "Karen, knowing now all the medical procedures you went through... All the many times you almost died and yet survived.. All the pain, and suffering ... you went through to be here for your children... If you had it to do over again ... Would you?" And in her sweet, gentle way .. with the inner strength that moves mountains ... she said ... "yes mama... I would... I'd go through every moment all over again... " I asked... "No regrets?".. She replied... "No regrets"... And then I asked... "Karen... if you knew you would have to face all you have gone through emotionally, mentally and physically... Would you have chosen to be born?" And she said "yes... well there are a couple of things I've thought I might have changed but not really... If anything was changed I wouldn't have Joey and Elizabeth, or my daddy, brothers and sister.. And you wouldn't have been my mama.".... I told her how badly I wanted her to be born... How it was a miracle she was born... How much I prayed she would be a little girl... And how much we always loved her...And she gave that smile... and with a loving laugh said... "I know that mama... And I love ya'll too." I laughed and said "but I love you more".. And she hugged me close as I hugged her... My baby...
And then... at last... my mind was put somewhat at ease.... I knew... without doubt... All I had asked You to do Lord was what she really wanted... A huge feeling of enormous weight seemed to fall away from me... Dark, shadowy "what if" thoughts disappeared... Another wonderful gift from her to me that only she could give me... And she did... I now can accept her birth, her life, as a true blessing to us all.... To her "Big Sister"... To her three Big Brothers... And to her daddy... She will always be "His Little Girl" ... and their "little sister"... So thank You God... Thank you for giving us Karen... And through her I am so thankful for Joey, "our" precious Elizabeth [who is so much like you, Karen], and their children... Instead of wondering did I do the right thing for fighting so hard for her to be born... Was I being selfish and if so then I would be the cause of her enormous suffering.... I no longer wonder... Now I know... With her loving words.. It was what she would have, and did.. choose ...
Again, Thank You Lord, she taught us more then I can ever say. And she left us with so many awe inspiring memories! My baby... I feel so blessed to have had her...

mama~

July 3, 2008

Karen, It is getting closer to the date you first became so ill. You are always with me. I love you so much but you know that...
You always liked the poems I wrote you and though this one is written with so much love for you.. It is written in pain... I miss you so much baby...
Our Shared Lives
The day you were born,
The day you died,
Each day inbetween,
You laughed, you loved, you cried;
*And I was there.

This heart of mine cannot forget,
The wonder of you,
You're in my thought's day and night,
no matter what I do.
*And our love and memories live on.

It's ok to keep you close,
And have my tears well up,
My eyes brim over, even in dreams,
I'm in an abyss that I can't shut.
*It’s a part of us.

I'm so thankful for every moment,
we had and shared before you died,
Still I ache to fill my empty arms,
Again and again with you by my side.
* And so it will always be.

I always cry when I hear Taps,
I can't hold back the tears,
It's the epitome of a death knell ..
reaching deep inside,
Of one you lost ... the sound...
brings them oh so near.
*My world will never be the same.

I can't describe my anguish,
Or my overwhelming love for you,
All we shared when you were
here... with me,
Will remain the same my whole life
through.
*Though life goes on.

Any of my children
Who may leave this world before me,
I'll love and think of the same,
Every day, every night, every
moment I breathe.
*And will.. through eternity.

And when I'm gone,
You and I and others with us,
Will remain in the minds and
memories,
Of those we leave behind... for
better and for worse.
*As they will remain with us.

I want you to know baby... though
I've "let you go"
When I've been hurt or I feel down
I can still hear you say...
"It's ok mama, God will take care of everything."
And He will ... He always has... in
due time.
*Blessings and vengeance is his, sayeth the Lord.
And He has blessed us with the best of all blessings... Each other.
I love you baby.. mama~

mama

June 20, 2008

Today is New Years, 2008...
Happy New Years baby..
I've been thinking good thought's of you all day. Recently I read a plaque that seemed to have been written just for you. I love it... This is what it says:
God saw her getting tired,
a cure not meant to be,
so He put His arms around her,
and gently whispered,
"Come with Me."
[author unknown.}

~~ And you went with Him~~
I love you baby,
mama

Kathleen Casper

January 1, 2008

My Dear friend Karen, whom I still miss every day. So many little things remind me of you, and it's the little things that matter most. I found this poem and wanted to share it with you and your family:
Don't think of her as gone away-
her journey's just begun
life holds so many facets-
this earth is only one
Just think of her as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years
Think how she must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away
And think of her as living
in the hearts of those she touched...
for nothing loved is ever lost
and she was loved so much!

God Bless you my dear, sweet friend, may God bless your family and that new grand baby, whom will never get to know how wonderful his gramma was. Keep him well and safe sweet Karen, as I know you will.
Until we meet again....
Love,
Shelley

Shelley

December 29, 2007

To my daughter Karen,
Baby, I write this in thankful wonder at how much of mine and daddy's perseverance is and was within you and every member of our family. In the truest sense of the word we are all "relentless" in our love for each other.
In Anthony's dedication to you he used the word relentless when he said his sister was "relentless in never giving up." That you, Karen, "had a very strong will, that no doubt came from your mother." Anthony was using that word to describe how brave you were, how resolute, and what a strong will you had to survive against any pain, any fears, and any obstacles so you could be there for Elizabeth and Joey until they could take care of themselves. And how deeply you believed in God.
You never gave up, but when Jesus came to gather you in His arms and take you with Him on the day we celebrate His birthday you went with Him. I felt then, and still feel, that He chose you to celebrate the day of your death on the very day we celebrate His birth. That way you would be a part of that special day and be beside Him through eternity. I feel like Christ was telling you... " come with me... You have suffered enough, and the greatest gift I can give you is to take you home with me on the very day the world celebrates My birth. I'll bring you to My Heavenly Home where you will have no more pain,... No more suffering."
And so Christ gathered you in His arms, brought you to His Heavenly Home and now you will forever be a part of His birthday celebration,
I know this now. It is just taking me, a mere mortal, time to accept what I know is true. I'm 90% there baby.. But I'm 100% sure the word relentless is and was a wonderful word for Anthony to use in relating to our strong beliefs.
Simply meant relentless describes a person that will never abandon you, no matter what the consequences to them. And I'm so glad, so thankful that part of me , and daddy, is instilled in each of our children and grandchildren.. Let us all think of that word, "relentless". It is such a perfectly, beautiful word. It will always be a wonderful word to describe how brave you are and were Karen. How resolute, how deeply you believe in God, in Jesus, Mary and Joseph, your ability to never give up, to preserver, and to describe the beautiful power of love you had and will always have for Elizabeth, Joey, your grandchildren, and all of us. And this year Karen, you will have a new grandchild... Elizabeth is expecting a little boy! But I bet you already knew that...
As for the word "relentless", you took the beauty, strength, and love in that word and brought it to a much, much higher level! Our hearts overflow with the love, awe, and inspiration that you instilled in all who knew you in the short time you had here on earth.
As Steven put it when he spoke of seeing you as he walked into your room as you lay dying, he saw, "that beautiful smile you always had that lit up your 'magical eyes', and you reached out your arms to hug him.. as you always did.." And your brother Benny loves you, his little sister, so much he will never be able to tell you good~bye... It is too final for him to face. And Cynthia, as you know she thinks of you every day. When she is driving and looks at the beautiful sky, when she hears a certain song, she thinks of you... and all the times ya'll all made 'pictures, or objects' out of the clouds. She feels the loss of you in so many ways that words well up in her throat as she try's to describe her thoughts and feelings... And the words, except for saying "you will always be the sunshine of her life. and her little sister" just can't come... without overwhelming tears. But as she said, you are and were "The child in all of us." When you left this earth you took with you a part of your brothers and your sister's heart. And to Gail, She loves you deeply and feels she also lost her little sister, her best friend, and, in a way, her child.
To all of us, the memory of your smile and laughter remains to brighten our every day. We will always be inspired by all that you were and are. And we all thought you were so petite, so very, very pretty, beautiful, glittering, sapphire blue eyes, a personality that drew everyone to you... a smile or laugh that dazzled all who met you.. and a charm... the Casper charm, lol, that captivated everyone. Your looks went way beyond beauty baby. Daddy and I still keep that picture of you on our entry area wall. And I have a smaller one of you that I keep close to me. Your beauty baby was inside and out. Like I wrote in a poem to you a few years ago ... You had, and will always have, "a beauty lying deep within " that was so obvious to all .. When I think of that I feel more then ever that is why God, and The Holy Trinity chose to take you home to be with Them on Christmas Day, 2006... I believe They chose that day as a blessing for you, for all of us, so you would have no more suffering,
I truly believe during your life God let you survive and exist against all odds so you could instill your wonderful qualities into your children, and grandchildren. From us let those qualities pass on to all the generations to come.
You, Karen, were the first to leave us. When you left you instilled in us something that will help us survive every day of our life; You gave us amazing strength and determination by the example you set, and you inspired each of us by the way you always found the good in everyone rather than their misgivings. The strength you gave us is an inner and outer strength for us to go on without you. And that baby, is the hardest thing we have ever faced. You gave us something we can hold onto and it give's us solace. You give us determination and strength to see us through this part of our life and through anything we might face in our future. And oh My God baby, I so need all the strength I can gather within me now while I hunger so much to tell you all the things I've told you so many times before, yet wish I could have told you once more in your last moments...
On Christmas Day, 2007, it will be one year since you died. I still hear your words of solace, love, caring and understanding toward me when things happen in my life as though you were actually here speaking to me. The times I feel I can't go on I can hear you say "Oh Mama, if it was us feeling that way you would be telling us "yes you can go on, because you have to. Because I would want you too. You know I haven't left you. I haven't left anyone. I'll be with you always, just as our whole family will always be with each other. Mama, ya'll are all a part of me..." And, Karen, I know what I seem to hear you say is true baby but it is so hard to go on without you here.
We all love you so much! We will all keep you within our hearts, minds, and our very being forever. As I write this I can hear you gently saying: "I know mama, and you all know how much I love each one of ya'll too. Now you have to quit worrying so much about me, I'm ok." ....
But I can't help it baby... You are a part of me in every breath I take... Every thought of family, of big and little things... all through the day and night... I think of you. I cry, I laugh. I'm so torn in my yearning to wish we were all together again; healthy and happy and with each other once more. Without you physically here life will never be "whole" for me again.. Not ever.
Though I talk with you and want you with us so much, I would still not want you back to go through one moment of suffering ever again. I know you understand because if you were here and I was gone, you would be saying these same things to me, about me. You would be wanting me here with you but not wanting me to suffer; and I would be telling you, "it's ok baby, don't mourn me anymore, let the sorrow go. I'm with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, and with God." And I would be saying "always remember; if you are unhappy, I will be unhappy.. If you are ok, I will be ok. And I would tell you to remember all the wonderful, happy things we shared, and how together we always seemed to conquer ever adversity. Even death could not defeat us.. Where you are, I am. Where I am you are with me. We have been so blessed by our God and The Holy Trinity to have Them be a part of us and to have each other. "
I feel you hear me. And now, as I softly, gently brush your hair away from your face one last time, while tears well up to overflowing in my eyes, I feel more at peace. And I hope, now that we know we are both ok, you can truly rest in peace. And maybe now so can I. I just need to accept that you are in peace... My heart say's you are... But the nagging human part of me needs a little more time to be sure. Karen, My Baby, and Daddy's little girl, "Our Karen" ... We ... you, all of us.. are still doing what we have always done, putting each other first.
I'm accepting it better baby and with God's and The Holy Trinity's help my prayer for you is that with these words of love to you I can totally let you go so you, and I, can rest in peace. I'll always love you baby... But then, you know that, mama...

Kathleen Casper

December 24, 2007

Dear Elizabeth..I met your mom on Pogo..she was so full of life..I will truly miss her..we would talk for hours most times in the early morning hours on Pogo..my prayers are with you and your family..aka Daisymay..Karen was truly blessed and loved

Carol Ward

September 19, 2007

May the Lord be with each of you and grant you peace. Karen was loved by so many people.
She was always there to lend a helping hand, to say a kind word and to pick you up when you were down.
She truly was an Angel on earth.
I have heard we do have Angels amongst us.....Personally, I believe this to be true. I was fortunate, by the Grace of God, to have met one.
In Deep Sympathy,

Susanne Bacchetta

March 7, 2007

To the family of Karen:
Was so sorry to hear to hear of Karen's passing. She will be missed very much from friends all over the world.
I met her via the internet playing Pogo.
I had just gotten a computer and did not know too much about it. Karen helped me so much. She had already met my daughter playing the Pogo games.
We became instant friends.
If there was ever a person who sat in the Lord's lap with me, it was Karen.
I have printed her obituary and will reverently place it in my Bible for safe keeping.
May the Lord provide solace for the family and friends left behind.
We will surely miss her.......Very much.
With HIS blessings and mine,
Susanne Bacchetta

Susanne Bacchetta

March 7, 2007

Karen~ what can one say about the person who knew the meaning of life. I met Karen in a game room on Pogo 3 years ago. We instantly bonded and became very best friends. We called each other about crazy stuff. Mostly guy trouble. Even though I had never, with much regret, met Karen I felt like a part of her family. My gosh Karen loves her kids and grandkids so much. She would speak of her parents, brothers and sisters all the time. I truely felt like I knew them all and held them in my heart. I just learned of Karen's passing and am very shocked.
She was a great pleasure to know, there was a reason Karen came into my life. She showed me how to live, to be a better person. She was and always will be so genuine and real. I am going to miss her, I miss her so much already. I can't believe you're gone Miss Karen, that's what I called her. I will forever cherish knowing you, and be honored to have you as my friend. Until we meet again...
I love you Miss Karen!
Shelley Frese

Shelley Frese

March 5, 2007

Cyndi Painter

January 23, 2007

Dear Karen,

Even though our paths went opposite directions in life, even though we rarely talked on the phone or saw much of each other as "grown-ups", even though we missed seeing each other's kids grow up, and even though I let too much time pass before I tried to find you again; I always thought of you, you were never far from my thoughts and always in my heart. And now that you are gone from this world, somehow the world seems emptier than when I just knew all I had to do was pick up the phone and call you. I will miss you my friend. I hope you know how special you are to me. I will never say "were", because I will never forget you. When I look up in the sky at night and see the stars, I know you're really not that far. The starlight isn't nearly as bright as the light of your smile..so I'll see you..and smile right back.
Your friendship is a gift I will always treasure, thank you for being my friend, but mostly thank you for being you...

Christina Hope

January 14, 2007

My mama was the light of my life. She was so wonderful and graceful and elegant. She always had perfect manners and had a smile that could light up any room. She was so beautiful. Even when she was her sickest she would still play with my hair and she would always have the softest hands. I love her so much and I will forever miss our rides down hwy. 90 jammin to the radio. She always knew every song title, artist, and year the album came out. She always said that would have been a good game for everyone to play because she knew she would win. She was more than a mom she was my best friend. I always knew no matter what I needed to talk about she would be there to listen and help me to get through it. I will always be my "Mama's Little Tag Along." I will love you forever and never forget you.
I love you, Mama!
your baby girl,
Elizabeth

Elizabeth Slamans

January 8, 2007

Aunt Karen, we all loved you dearly and will continue to love you until we see eachother in heaven, you will be in our thoughts. We lost a daughter, a mother,a grandmother, a sister, a spouse, an aunt, a friend. But you make me look forward to being there "WITH YOU" in heaven. If I could choose anyone to guide me through the gates of heaven it would be you. I Love You and Miss You. Heaven is a better place because you are in it. See you soon. Always loving you,your god-daughter, Kathleen.

Kathleen Pace

January 7, 2007

The news of Karen's passing came to me over the telephone New Year's Eve. My mother was looking through the paper and happened across Karen's name. It goes without saying that I was, that I am, very stunned and saddened. I have known Karen since I was 8 or 9 years old. I lived down the street from her and attended Anniston Avenue elementary school with her. We became fast friends and remained friends even after my family moved out of the area. Karen was like a beacon in my life, no matter where I went, or how many times I got lost, I always knew where home was because that's where Karen was. The last time I spoke with Karen was just after Hurricane Katrina. I had joined the Red Cross and went to Slidell to help out. I called her right before I left. We had a nice long conversation. I had no idea it would be the last time I spoke with my dear friend. However I choose to look at it this way; thank God we had that conversation or this news would be even harder to take. Another example of never assume there will be tomorrow to say the things you want to say today. I only hope Karen knew how special she was in my life.
Karen's beautiful spirit and heart will live on in all of us who are blessed with having our own special memories of this truly unforgettable woman. My heart felt prayers and deepest sympathies go to Karen's family during this difficult time. You are all such wonderful people.God Bless each and every one of you.

Christina Hope

January 6, 2007

Karen, You left us with so many wonderful memories!
We love you and miss you so much.

Karen was only nine years old when I first met her.
When I became part of this loving and caring family by marrying Karen's oldest brother Tony thirty three years ago, Karen instantly became my little sister. While we lived with her family for a few months after we married I would sometimes take her to, or from, school. I felt so proud to be with her. She was an adorable little girl. She was always happy, and even then she made others happy just being with her. I watched her grow up to become a teenager, a beautiful young woman and then a mother. Her two children were her everything and she adored her two grandchildren. She would always be smiling and happy. She would always make me laugh.
No matter what, Karen thought of others first. And a few months ago she unexpectedly gave me a beautiful ceramic angel that I will always cherish.
I have so many wonderful memories throughout the years that will always be with me. Karen will always be in my heart and never, ever will she be forgotten.

I LOVE YOU KAREN!!
Gail

Gail

January 4, 2007

Memories of Karen

Karen, you will be in my thoughts forever

Sometimes, when Karen didn't notice we were looking at her, she would have a silent, worried look on her face. The moment she realized anyone of us was there she became so happy. Her face lit up. And instantly our’s did too. When she was very worried or ill, she always felt more safe being around her children, or her brothers or sister, or her mama and daddy. And when she was very ill, her family, all of us, always tried to keep a smile on our face just for her. Often ours were forced from worry about her, but hers never was. Her entire face just lit up the moment she saw her family.
Karen had the most wonderful personality I've ever seen. She was filled with love, trust, and forgiveness to others. Karen’s children always came first with her. And she came first with them. She will always be their wonderful mother, watching over them as she always did. And they watched over her.
I admire her so much for all that she was and is.

Karen, You will be in my thoughts forever, and my love will stay with you.
Your sister-in-law
Theresa

Theresa

January 4, 2007

Loving Thoughts of Karen
By her Sister-In-Law
Karin Marie

I feel so blessed by knowing Karen

I will always remember the way Karen greeted everyone. From the first moment we met she welcomed me with love, and I loved her too..
Karen was so good, kind, compassionate, and giving of herself. She had so much love for other people and it came from deep within her. You could feel it without her ever saying a word. I feel blessed having her as a part of my life. We all are. Everyone, including me, loves her so very much.

I love you,
Karin

Karin

January 3, 2007

I Think Karen Was Born Happy.
She made me smile. She Made Everyone She Met Smile.

I don't want to tell her bye....
I can't say bye.
By Benny


I don't know how to put into words the way I feel about my little sister Karen. I know when we were little, and even when we grew up, Karen could always make me smile. She made everyone smile, even strangers. I think she was born happy.
Karen amazed me when we hung out together growing up. She still amazes me.
She loved music. She knew so many songs and she always knew which artist was singing, the name of the band, and she knew all the lyrics to the songs. I’ve never known anyone else who could make others happy just being around her.
I think she was so intelligent, and so good and kind. And no matter how hard things were for her Karen always put her children and grandchildren first. She made them happy. And they made her happy. And she made me happy just being around her.
Karen always put others first. She was always there for me when I was down. She just make me feel great!! I was on top of the world when I was around her, even in my worst times. And Through the worse times of her life Karen thought of us. All of us.
When Karen was ill sometimes she could barely smile or reach out to hug us. What strength she did have she wanted to give it to us. She loved us and never wanted us to worry about her. But we did. If any of us could have traded places with her we would have. But then, if we had, she would have only traded places right back with us.
We all love each other and we will always be there for each other. I only wish I had the chance to be there one more time for you Karen. I love you and I'll remember everything about you forever. You will always be my little sister.

I don't want to tell her bye....
I can't say bye.
I'll see you again Karen..
I love you with my whole heart and soul.
Your big brother Benny.

Benny

January 3, 2007

My little sister Karen

She always greeted me with her magical eyes, her beautiful smile, and with open arms.
By her big brother Steven

Karen always greeted me with her magical eyes, her beautiful smile, and with open arms.
No matter how you felt physically, through all your terrible pain and illness, your smile and open arms were always there for me.For everyone.
The moment Karen would see me she would always throw her arms out to me. I got to her minutes before she died, and still she smiled and reached for me with open arms, saying "I can always count on my big brother." I tried so hard to help you survive Christmas Day Karen; And you tried so hard to live. But you died in my arms.
Karen, in reality, you gave me so much more then I could ever give you. Without you, my little sister, I could never have been a big brother. You gave me the chance to be one, A big brother, the most precious gift I will ever have.
Thoughts of you will always be with me Karen but the thought of knowing I will never see my little sister again tears me apart. Only one thing eases my mind; I know I will see you in Heaven. I love you so much, Your big brother Steven.

Steven

January 3, 2007

Memories of my little sister.

There are so many wonderful things about Karen
By her big brother, Tony

There are so many wonderful things about Karen that it's hard to tell them all in words. For all of you who didn't know her as well as we do I'll try and put them in words for you.

Kind.
She always put everyone first, above herself no matter who it was. Family, friends, or just a stranger.

Admirable.
You could not help but to admire her for the joy and laughter she brought you every time you was around her. That very special outlook she had on life even after she fell ill. 95% of the time you could not tell anything was even wrong with her. She wouldn't let you know.

Relentless.
Once she set her mind to it, there was nothing going to stand in her way of getting it. No matter what it was. She had a very strong will, that no doubt came from her mother.

Energetic.
Just her presence of being around, displaying her great attitude and energy made you feel like you were standing on top of the world.

Nicest.
Karen was the nicest person anyone could ever meet. She would do or give anything that was in her power. Again putting herself last to make the world a better place for everyone else.
She was Kind, Admirable, Relentless, Energetic, and Nice. And I had the pleasure of growing up with her. Add them all together and you get a very, very special person. KAREN.
I'll miss you little sister, but I know you are in a much better place, free of your pain, smiling down on us. It saddens my heart to lose you, but I have to thank you for being part of my life. Rest in peace and I'll be with you again one day. All my love forever and ever.
Your big brother Tony.

Tony

January 3, 2007

Karen will always be my sunshine of life.
By her big sister, Cynthia

Karen will always be my sunshine of life. She is the child in all of us, and she is the woman I admire and look up to. Her smile and laughter brightens every day. She finds the good in everyone rather than their misgivings.
Family means more to Karen than life itself and God blessed each of us when He gave Karen to us the day she was born.
Her heart overflows with her love for music, song and dance. Karen's personality glows!! Anyone that looks into her beautiful blue eyes as they sparkle, listens to her soft tones as she speaks, or feels her loving heart when she laughs, all know instantly "that" is KAREN. Her caring compassion for others always pours from her heart and her strength withstood many unwanted obstacles. Even through all of this she still continued to give her true self of love, always smiling and looking for the good in everything and everyone.
Karen not only loves God, Family and friends, she loves her dogs; or, as she calls them, "her babies". Her love stretches out to everyone she touches.
The love our family shares with each other came from the way we were raised by mama and daddy. They taught us to love one another, as God would want us to. We will always feel we have the best mama and daddy in the whole world.
Karen, "My One and Only Baby Sister", I love you and you are in my Heart and Thoughts Eternally. We will share memories together everyday until I see you again. I give you all my hugs and kisses.
Your Big Sister Cynthia MISSES YOU!!

Cynthia

January 3, 2007

Dear Casper Family,
My thoughts are with you and my heart goes out to you all. I did not get the chance to know Karen as well as all of you but I took major pride in knowing she was to be my future sister-in-law. I had never seen my big brother as happy as I did with her. Thank you so much for allowing Dwayne to be a part of your family, I know it has brought him great comfort. I also know the entire Casper family as well as Karen will be in my brothers heart along with the true love they shared.

Kim (Prine) Sturdivant

December 29, 2006

Dear Uncle Link, Aunt Kat and Family,

The Becker Family is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Karen. We are with you in prayer and soul and may the Lord shine upon you'll his joyfullness of having her in heaven with him.

May the Lord Bless each and every one of his chlidren.

With Respect and Love,

Pete Becker & Family

Pete Becker

December 29, 2006

Aunt Kat & Uncle Link, It saddened me to hear of Karen. I know words can not help the pain you and her children are going through at this time. Just keep in mind that God needs angels and he chose her. LOVE-NANCY

NANCY BAILEY

December 29, 2006

My toughts and prayers are with all of you. I wish I could be there for your family. You were my second family when I was growing up and I will never foget the warmth and kindness your entire family always gave me. Karen was like the little sister I never had, and I will always remember her like a little angel. Again, my love and prayers will always be with you.

Brett Stafford

December 28, 2006

Link, Kathleen and Family,
I am so sorry for the sudden loss of Karen. I know that there are no words that can lessen the pain for you all.
Only the Grace of GOD will see you through this difficult time.
My heart goes out to all of you.
GOD BLESS,
Sandra Beaugez

Sandra Beaugez

December 28, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

The Kevin Fayard Family

December 28, 2006

We extend our sincere sympathy and value your trust during this time of remembrance and reflection. We pledge our support now and in the future.

The Staff and Management of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Homes

December 28, 2006

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