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STEPHANIE WATERS: 1981-20081
Paramedic from Cedar Park died doing what she lovedStephanie Waters was fulfilling her life dream by helping patients, family says.
By Sue Banerjee
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Stephanie Waters was one of the few people who was able to combine two of her loves —flying and helping others — into a career, family members and friends said.
They remembered Waters, 27, of Cedar Park as a focused and passionate young paramedic who was committed to saving lives. She died in a helicopter crash about 3 a.m. Sunday while taking a patient from Huntsville to Houston.
Three other people aboard the flight, patient David Disman, flight nurse Jana Bishop and pilot Wayne Kirby, also died in the crash. The cause is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.
A spokesperson for PHI Air Medical, the company Waters worked for, said Monday that the helicopter was awaiting night-vision equipment recommended by federal transportation officials in 2006. The goggles could decrease the crash risk during night flights, but agencies have been put on waiting lists because the Iraq war has caused a shortage.
"They died in the line of duty, and every public service provider feels this," said Scott Parker, field commander for Marble Falls Emergency Medical Services.
Waters' mother, Pam Gower, worked with the Marble Falls EMS for 12 years, starting as a volunteer and then becoming a full-time paramedic. Family and friends say Waters was inspired at an early age by her mother's dedication to helping others.
"Stephanie was a special and remarkable child who was always more focused on what she was going to do with her life, and she was inspired to get into EMT services because of her relationship with her mom," said Jackie English, pastor of the Christ Redeemer Fellowship in Granite Shoals who has known the family since 1991.
In Gower's view, her daughter chose her own path and was inspired by many people in her life.
"There was a boldness about her to go after whatever was out there," she said. "She loved her motorcycle, enjoyed hiking and took a trip to Paris by herself. She was just brave."
Waters graduated from Marble Falls High School and immediately joined an ambulance unit in Phoenix, Ariz. She worked with several local emergency service providers and served part-time as an instructor at schools around the state. She met her husband, Christopher Waters, while teaching a class at Central Texas College in Killeen.
"The last time I talked to her on Saturday night was when she helped save a 2-year-old drowning victim on her last flight," said Waters, a City of Austin paramedic. "She started her flying career in 2006 because it was something she really wanted to do."
Her dedication to serving others was exemplified by her willingness to commute to Bryan from Cedar Park to go out on medical missions for PHI. She also loved taking care of her three dogs and had a strong faith.
"God was a big resource in her life, and given the things we see in this profession, there's no other way to get through it," Gower said.
In the end, her mother said she was comforted by the thought that her daughter was fulfilling her dreams and died while saving the lives of others. "Some people never get to live their dreams, " Gower said. "She was living hers."
74 Entries
I miss you..
Kelley Toeppe
September 12, 2010
i pray for your family
a person who cares
March 26, 2010
I find myself thinking of you often. I came across pictures of us today, when was packing to move. The smile and the tears came. You still inspire me. I miss you Step!
Kelley
August 22, 2009
Just a few hours short of 1 year and not a day goes by that I don't miss you. Still take it one day at a time, and when that is too much, one hour, one minute. You are in a better place and one day I will see you again and we will have alot of catching up to do and Starbucks to drink. I miss you my friend. Keep watch over us.
Sandi
June 7, 2009
I thought of you today. Thoughts of you naturally translated to smiles. I'll never forget the time you and your partner turned up the heat, wipers and radio in our our ambulance when we weren't looking. I miss your mischievous self. I'll never forget the big hug I got from you the day of Eric's wreck. Miss you.
Ginger Floyd
March 17, 2009
Steph,
Our hearts ache because you were taken away so suddenly. We didn’t know you well enough, or nearly long enough. We just thought there was so much time, that you would be with Chris forever. We hope that you knew how we loved you; you were so beautiful and delightful, and so full of life. We were always amazed at how fearless and strong you were, always trying something new and exciting. And, we were so proud that you and Chris chose each other. It was easy to see that you loved each other completely and unconditionally, and we will always be thankful for every minute that you had together. We will miss you terribly; but we will never forget you and how you brought so much life, love, peace, and joy to everyone that you touched, most especially our son.
Love, Mom and Dad Waters
Renee Waters
June 18, 2008
I did not know Stephanie but my heart and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. God Bless yall during this difficult time. Your daughter will be remembered!
Stacey
June 14, 2008
Pam, We are saying a prayer for you and your family in this time. I wish we had some words to comfort you. We know you were so proud of your daughter and you had every right to be. John 13:15- Greater love hath no man, than he should give his life for another. God Bless
Meredith and Michael Koch
June 13, 2008
I'm gonna miss a great friend, down right awesome person and great paramedic. Glad I got to teach her and work with Steph in her early years. This is a great loss to all the communities she served.
Monti Brunson
June 13, 2008
Pam, you know how much I loved Steph and how proud I was of her.
It was my honor and pleasure to have been Steph's Sunday School teacher for about 4 years when she was 9, 10, 11, 12. I remember, Pam when Steph went to Paris. It has been a joy to watch her grow and on occasion to the be patient she was treting. Which always gave me a realy peace knowing that Steph was taking care of me. Steph has truly 'flown away in the arms of Jesus. Let us all take comfort knowing that she is in heaven and making sure that everyting is being taken care of. love you Steph
Sally P Williams
June 13, 2008
My heart still breaks to know of your great loss. I meet Stephanie while working at SHL in Burnet and she was a great person. She will be missed by many. Pam and Chris, I can't imagine your pain, your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Enriquez
June 13, 2008
Steph! I just talked to you in the past few weeks...I miss you. You were a fabulous teacher and even better friend. You are someone I will remember forever in my heart. You were an inspiration to me and everyone you came in contact with. Your wonderful smile and fun spirit will always be remembered. Thank you for being such a great person while on this Earth. I know I will see you again someday and I'll finally get to fly with you! My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Ashlee
June 13, 2008
Steph,
I'm still having trouble believing this is real. It still seems like yesterday that your mom and I were partnered up and you would tag along on calls and around the station for hours on end. Unfortunately I never had the chance to work with you as a paramedic, but as I've learned over the past few days, you've done the profession proud. I am proud of you and all you have accomplished and I am a better person for having known you. Until we meet again...
Chris,
You are an inspiration for anyone looking to be a better husband, may the lord guide you and comfort you in these coming days.
Sgt. Barry Greer, EMT-P
Marble Falls Police Department
Barry Greer
June 12, 2008
Kristine Pickett
June 12, 2008
Stephanie,
You will be missed everyday. Thank you for the example you set for those of us left behind to follow. Chris, we love you and are praying for you. The service was beautiful today, just as her life was.
Jeb
June 12, 2008
I only met Stephanie a couple months ago when she called me with 100 questions about the Mrs. Texas Pageant. I have to laugh when I think about her asking me what type of evening gown she should wear. She said "is a fitted gown better or a big Cinderella gown?" I told to wear whichever dress she feels beautiful in. The voice at the other end of the phone was like a little girl that was so excited to get to wear her first ball gown - she said "I've always wanted to wear a big Cinderella gown"! I had the pleasure of meeting her mom after the memorial service yesterday and I told her about the phone conversation. Ms. Gower told me she picked the Cinderella gown and was so excited to wear it! I'm sorry I'll never get to meet Stephanie face to face but I take comfort in knowing she's among the other angels watching over us.
Ms. Gower, I can't express to you how sad I am for your loss. In a strange way, it helped me cope by hugging you at PHI. For that, I thank you!
Chris, God bless you. I pray that each day you will have the strength to continue on as you know Stephanie would want you to.
Vanessa Sikorski
June 12, 2008
Steph you are the reason my daughter has decided to go into the medical field. We will miss you.
Jeremy Schwartzer
June 12, 2008
May the Lord place his healing hands on your family. My prayers are with you. God Bless.
Tina Fox
June 12, 2008
What an honor to have known and worked with you. You will truly be missed. God will take care of you now and look out after your loved ones, your Mom Pam and your husband Chris.
Carrol Thomas
June 12, 2008
It was always a joy to talk with Stephanie about her passion; and being able to talk with her about this life. Having a husband who is also in the field, and my dreams of one day being in the medical field, she always kept my spirits up when things seemed kind of gloomy. She will be missed more than ever; but I know there will always be a piece of her in everyone she touched.
Amanda Schumacher
June 12, 2008
Chris, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Having talked with many people about Stephanie, she is very well respected in the "community" and is a true loss. Compassion is what she had for people, something we all could use more of.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you, my friend.
Allen and Janice Huskin
June 12, 2008
My memories of Stephanie are so wonderful. Stephanie was a compassionate and professional Paramedic. I always had the reassurance that when Stephanie called bringing a patient in to the ED, that the patient was recieving the finest care that could be given. I was also encouraged by her commitment to Jesus which also guided her work and gave her strength in the midst of chaos. It was a privilege to have taught and worked with Stephanie. My prayers are with her family and co-workers. Stephanie will be missed.
Sharon Barclay, RN - Brack ICU
Sharon Barclay
June 12, 2008
Stephanie it was a pleasure working with you at Critical Air you always had a smile on your face. You will be misses God Bless you and your family.
Karan Phillip
June 12, 2008
Stephanie I know you are in the arms of our Heavenly Father and safe with Him forever. Pam there are no words to express how sorry I am for your loss. I am not going to ask you how you are doing because I know from experience the pain within your heart. That pain will be there for a long time but through God's Grace you can take each step at a time. Chris, you lost a wonderful wife and you will also miss her dearly but treasure the memories and God will comfort you and keep you safe. If you ever need me I am here for you. Close your eyes and see her face. With sympathy and love, Stephanee Holland's mother, Frances Shull
Frances Shull
June 12, 2008
Stephanie
I always enjoyed working with you. I will never forget our first shift together. I woke up in the morning to find you gone, but your presents left at the foot of my bed. I still have them to this day. The smiles that you brought to work carried me throughout the day. I am blessed to have gotten to work with you and more importantly blessed to have gotten to know you. You will be missed dearly, but your spirit and joy will always live on.
Taylor Bentley
June 11, 2008
Stephanie taught CPR to my family, of which we are most appreciative. Her professionalism, positive attitude, and invaluable skills/knowledge will always stay with us. Condolences to her family, may you all find solace in sweet memories of her.
Nissa Shams
June 11, 2008
Thanks for being there during my first days as a paramedic. You helped define my approach to our patients, and that definition has been appreciated by many more than just me. By the way, that whole toothpaste-in-the-Oreo thing was perfect. But, you have to admit, I won the 'Scare Game' when I grabbed your ankle from under the bed that night (even though your screaming made me almost wet myself). (Oh.. and thanks for not trampling me). I wish we could have gotten together for that lunch or dinner in the last couple of weeks. I was looking forward to it. I can picture it like yesterday: You with the radio in one hand, cell phone in the other, me trying to find the street, and you in the driver's seat. God knows I love that memory. God knows it is burned in my mind. Peace to Chris, Pam and the family. And to you, angel. You are special, not in the past tense. Keep on flyin'.
Jeff Isbell
June 11, 2008
Stephanie impacted many lives in a positive way. She was a wonderful CPR instructor and we are grateful for the knowledge she shared with us. A truly great loss to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends.
Cyndi Carr
June 11, 2008
Dear Steph,
Its been a while since we went to Paramedic school and teach in Killeen together. The graduation trip we took to the Grand Canon. The laughs we had, the moments that we had will never be replaced or lost. I love you and all my thoughts are with you, mom and your loving husband. You have made a huge impact in my life as well as many others. Thank You!!
Kelley Toeppe
June 11, 2008
It was such a treat for me each time I visited with Stephanie - what a great personality and she had such a love for what she did being a paramedic-I know she touched many lives and will always be remembered. My condolences go out to her husband Chris and family and friends.
Annette Rushing
June 11, 2008
I never met Stephanie, but was looking forward to meeting her at the Mrs. Texas United America Pageant on June 22nd. We will miss her at the pageant and pray for her family. Please remember she is not gone just away. And you will see her again in Heaven!!
Vienna De La Garza
June 11, 2008
Stephanie,
I will never forget the moments we shared together. You were my first partner and always made coming to work enjoyable. Through the hundreds of hours and thousands of miles together you always kept me laughing and upbeat, which made the job much easier to deal with mentally. I always felt that even in the worst emergency, everything would get done and work out with you there; it always did. You helped me and everyone around become better providers while always being able to smile and enjoy life. You made the world a better place and you have given many people a new appreciation for their loved ones and themselves. Your legacy will always be a part of who I am and those I try to help in the future. Rest in peace
David Fernandez
June 11, 2008
You helped certify my entire family so that we , in turn, could be prepared in case of emergency , with our little ones in mind. May God have mercy on you. Muslims believe, "God created us, and to Him we return". Condolences to the fam,
Lamia Kadir, MD
June 11, 2008
To Chris Waters,
While I never got to meet your wife, I could only imagine how wonderful a person she was. May you try to find comfort in your friends and family in this horrible life altering tragedy. Also know that JJ and I keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
John Eeten
June 11, 2008
Thinking of Chris and all of Stephanie's family at this time. May you find comfort in your memories of her...
David and Mollie Francis
June 11, 2008
so sorry my heart goes out to the family.
Rubyjo Balusek
June 11, 2008
Stephanie will be missed. This is a tragic loss for the EMS community. We will all miss you. My sincere sympathy to Chris & Pam.
Chris Holland
June 11, 2008
My Dear Friend Stephanie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your time spent with our service will always be remembered as a time of growth, fun and lots of entertainment. God Bless and we miss you dearly.
Johnny Campbell
June 11, 2008
Steph,
You were not only a blessing to your patients, but an inspiration to your coworkers. Ive learned so much, watching you with your patients. In the short time Ive known you, I knew you were an amazing Paramedic and someone to learn from. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time.
Lacy Watson
June 11, 2008
We are so sorry for the family and close-knit PHI crew for this tragic loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Kentucky Kids Crew Neonatal/Pediatric Transport Team
(PHI 4)
June 11, 2008
Chief Bode Barker
June 10, 2008
Snowball, My heart is broken and I cannot even express in words how much I hurt for your mom and husband. You were always a joy to work with, and I watched you grow into a fine young lady, as well as a very dedicated and passionate paramedic. Pam, may the peace and comfort that only God can provide be with you during these difficult days. My prayers are with you and all of your family.
Rhonda Kilburn
June 10, 2008
I was blessed to have Stephanie first as a Medical Explorer and later a student, along with Chris - and even more blessed to see her grow into a beautiful and dedicated young woman, wife and paramedic. Steph -you always loved passionately: your friends, your dogs, your family, being a flight medic and especially Chris. What a joyous life you shared with us all!! Love to you always.
Cindy Edwards
June 10, 2008
its always sad to hear about a loss like this. the medical services mourns the loss of one of its own.
our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
fire station 21
June 10, 2008
I was deeply saddened when I heard about the accident. Ems was your passion and you did it well. You were a great person and an awesome medic. The medical field will mourn your loss. You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
To the Gower and waters families:
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief and May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
thaddeus troyer
June 10, 2008
Stephers,
I called you that cause of your mama. I am so heart broken for her and Chris and every life you touched and would have touched. We should all be inspired by your zest for life and ambition to be the best you could be at anything you chose to conquer. I thank God he blessed me to have you in my life. I have lots of smiles remembering. You will be sorely missed and always loved.
Shelly
Shelly White
June 10, 2008
Stephanie,
I have only known you for 3 years, but I already know what an amazing woman you are. I enjoyed the shifts we worked together at Marble Falls Area EMS. You would always light up the room whenever you entered! It was an honor to know such a beautiful, energetic, caring, and compassionate person. Thank you for being my friend...
Joyce Marx
June 10, 2008
Stephanie,
I remember you only vaguely in my youngest memories but it is hard to ever forget the love and joy you brought to the family. I am truly saddened to hear of your death but we all have the reassuring knowledge that you died doing what you loved most, that is a privilege that not many people in the world will ever have. May your life be carried on in those you loved, those you saved, and those who will never stop loving you. Be at peace.
Matthew Dunham
June 10, 2008
Very deeply saddened by the loss of such a wonderful Medic. Stephanie you will always be remembered for what you did as you and as a Paramedic, very inspired to helping all you came in contact with. You taught me alot during my EMT-Basic course and inspired me to work in this line of work. My prayes go to your family and friends.
Chris Bolding
June 10, 2008
Stephanie,
Words cannot express our feelings for you. You have touched our lives more than you will ever know. You were a born Medic, Teacher, and Friend. You were the best partner one could have. Everyone in Public Safety should be blessed to work along side of someone like you. I know that I was blessed to work with you. Your smile brightened up every room. You made coming to work a joy. Your care and compassion showed on every call. We have lost a true angel. We take comfort in the fact that you were doing what you loved. Flying among the clouds helping the sick and injured. We will all miss you greatly, and think about you every day. May god watch over you, Chris, Pam and all of your family and friends. Until we meet again at the gates of Heaven. Rest in Peace my Friend.
Christopher, Donelle, and Brittany Gay
June 10, 2008
Stephanie, you are missed. I remember our fun times we had. Our trip to the Grand Canyon, our nights laughing, and talking, our ability to read each others minds when we were on a call together. You made everyone around you feel cared for, and had the compassion and knowledge to do what needed to be done. You were an angel on earth and now you are an angel in heaven. My heart and prayers are with your husband and family. I know you will be keeping a close eye on them. Know that we love you..
Tonnya Troyer
June 10, 2008
So deeply saddened by the loss of Stephanie. Had the recent pleasure of working with her. She was not only beautiful on the outside but the inside as well. My sincere condolences to Chris and their families. Heaven has a new angel...
Chris RN S&W Labor and Delivery
June 10, 2008
Pam,
I do not even know what to say as there are no adequate words. Stephanie was such a sweet, caring person. I have asked for prayer for you and your family during this time and I know that God is with you and will help you through all the darkness. Mom and Dad and I want to come down and see you really soon! Love, Angie Nyamburi
Angie Nyamburi
June 10, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and co-workers of Ms. Stephanie Waters EMT-P.
Paris EMS Paramedics
June 10, 2008
My heart hurts for the loss of the Med 12 crew and it goes out to the families. I can not begin to understand the pain you are feeling. Stephanie was an amazing person...so dedicated and caring and always smiling. She lived to help others and heaven has a very special angel now. God bless and comfort your family.
Tricia S&W ER
June 10, 2008
I never had the pleasure of meeting Stephanie, however as a paramedic my heart aches for her family and friends. I know the pain of losing a loved one all too well and wish you comfort during this terrible time in your life. I know doing what you love is what makes life worth living and we give ourselves everyday to take care of others. My heart and prayers go out to you.
Amanda Bryand
June 10, 2008
My husband and I only met Stephanie a little over a month ago when she wanted the PHI logo embroidered on some of her blouses and scrub top. We were very impressed with this young lady in her knowledge and passion for helping others. We will surely miss having Stephanie visit us at our home. Our hearts go out to the Waters family and her PHI family. We are very blessed to have known such a wonderful, compassionate person in such a short period of time. God Bless You All
Carol OBrien
June 10, 2008
Stephanie,
You taught us infant CPR a couple of months ago. I was very saddened to hear that you are gone. You will be missed.
Jeff
Jeff
June 10, 2008
Baby,
I will never stop loving you with all of my being. You loved being a paramedic with all of your soul but you never let your career take away from being a wonderful wife. You showed me love and peace like I could never imagine and you were my best friend in the world. Thank you for chosing me and for standing by me through all the challenges that life offered. I will always be your Husband and can't wait to be in your arms again one day.
I Love You,
Your Baby
Chris Waters
June 10, 2008
My heart goes out to her family for their loss. Stephanie thanks for all your service and dedication to our field.
Temple Thomas
June 10, 2008
I first want to tell the family that I am so sorry for your loss. I went to school with Stephanie and graduated with her. She was always a very quiet and sweet person. She will be missed and my thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones...
Amber Amos
June 10, 2008
Stephanie will be greatly missed. She is an integral part of close knit community that her short life's work helped to build. EMS mourns the loss of one of its own. She will not be forgotten for her sacrifice and and her passion for medicine will continue to inspire me and countless others that knew her in life. I will continue to pray for her husband and family...be comforted. Few are the people that are brave enough to follow their dreams and move boldly through life. My sadness is touched by the thought of Stephanie watching over her EMS sisters and brothers and her happy memory inspiring us to excell in our blessed profession.
Arturo Cordova
June 10, 2008
I worked in the EMS field for over 18 years, 8 of those as a Paramedic. I understand her love for the job. Also I loved flying, but only flew one time on a medical helicopter and loved it. I know you are so proud she got to do what she loved, and I do understand her passions for those.
Teresa Leifeste
June 10, 2008
I met Stephanie when she visited our office to teach a CPR class. I was so impressed with her energy, drive and enthusiasm. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
John F. Lann, DDS and Staff
June 10, 2008
We greatly appreciate Stephanie's dedication and love to help others. Our condolences go out to the family and friends. Your work in helping others will never be forgotten.
Lakeside Hospital ER
June 10, 2008
Thanks for your selfless service to the community. You were an example and a mentor to so many.
Kurt Brown
June 10, 2008
I had but a few interactions with Stephanie and even these were a few years ago. -- As I reflect back I can think of nothing but how compassionate and caring she always seemed to be. God Speed Stephanie - now an angel watching over us.
Cannon Tubb
June 10, 2008
Great friend and Christian sister. Linda and I will always remember and miss you. Christopher; you are in our prayers.
Randy & Linda Hall
June 10, 2008
I was so deeply saddened when I heard about this tragedy. My heart hurts for Stephanie's family, as they deal with this. You are all in my prayers. May God be with you through this.
Kevin Gourley
June 10, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Dustin Ebarb, Acadian Ambulance Communications Department
June 9, 2008
My condolences go out to the Waters family during this very difficult time. EMS has lost a fantastic paramedic who will be remembered for dedicating her life to not only helping patients, but giving back to EMS through teaching those of us with aspirations to advance our career in EMS. Stephanie's passion for EMS came straight from the heart, and it showed in her patient care. Stephanie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to work with her.
Brent Sacks
June 9, 2008
Your dedication and duty to the citizens of this state will be remembered! May you rest in peace.
John G.
June 9, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this young lady, I am a fellow emergency Services personnel and I have been in for a total of 9 years ,and it is always hard to loose a brother or sister of the job. My Mrs. Waters rest in Peace.
JB
June 9, 2008
Stephanie - your life was a blessing to those who you treated and taught.
Wes Ogilvie
June 9, 2008
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