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Kari Bates Obituary
Kari Bates, 35, of Charlotte, NC, and her unborn child, entered into the garden of the Lord Jesus Christ on March 31, 2007. She was born on February 17, 1972 in Burlington, MA.
Kari is a dancer, a mother, and a wife. She enjoys loving people, taking naps, being late for everything, soaking in every moment with family, spooning with her husband, detailed conversations, lounging, snuggling with her dogs, showing off pictures of her niece, sleeping in on weekends, and worshiping her Jesus.
Kari's life dream is best expressed in her last journal entry the night she went to be with her Jesus, March 31, 2007. 'After almost 15 years of walking with Christ, I still feel I am struggling to find my destiny and for what purpose God has made me. A few months ago, when inquiring of the Lord, He spoke very clearly to me that I am called to family.'
Perhaps not always expressed in words, Kari's heart and tears longed for every member of her family to know Jesus intimately by surrendering everything to follow Him. He is faithful and He will do it.
She is survived by her husband Joseph Bates, her mother, Brenda Balchunas of DeFuniak Springs, FL, father, Craig Balchunas of Newburgh, NY; and sister, Kimberli Spolar and husband, Tim, of Charlotte.
A memorial service and celebration with reception to follow will be held at 4 PM Thursday April 5, 2007 at Morningstar Fellowship, 375 Starlight Dr., Fort Mill, SC. For directions visit www.morningstarminstries.org.
Arrangements by McEwen Funeral Service, Pineville Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kari Bates
Sponsored by Kari's family.
Catherine
March 29, 2025
Brenda...My thought and prayers are with you. Sending hugs and love.
Catherine
March 29, 2024
My thoughts and prayers are with you today Brenda.
Catherine
March 29, 2023
Thinking of you today Brenda. My thoughts and prayers and love are with you.
Catherine King-Johnson
March 29, 2021
My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you Brenda.
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Marisa
November 15, 2020
I just woke up from a wonderful dream of you dancing in my driveway. Your palms faced up towards heaven while fat and full raindrops fell from the sky. And while you were laughing, you jéted from puddle to puddle. It was magic. I miss you. A lot.
Love,
Your baby cousin. Xoxo
Kimberli Spolar
March 30, 2020
13 years since we said see you in heaven, not a day goes by that we dont miss Kari and think about all the moments we have missed with her .
Catherine King-Johnson
March 29, 2020
My thoughts prayers and love are with you Brenda
Catherine Johnson
April 2, 2019
My thoughts prayers and love are with you Brenda.
Robbie Trafzer
February 20, 2012
Happy Birthday Kari on Feb 17th! Your sweet spirit is with all of us.
Jim and Willa Ogletree
February 20, 2012
In loving memory of a beautiful person, that gave so much to life and to her family. She will continuously be missed.
Jim and Willa Ogletree
Katrice Williams
February 19, 2012
Happy Birthday Kari! I miss you dearly! We only knew each other for a very short time, but I knew you were an angel by your sweet,soft, and calming voice. May you continue to shine upon your family and friends. God bless you.
Adrienne Malone-Griffiths
February 10, 2012
I think of Kari often and remembering her birthday yesterday I decided to see if there were any memoriams to her.
I do pray for her family and her husband. I pray all are well. I hope that little niece of hers is continuing to blossom into a beautiful young lady.
Robbye Brooks
May 27, 2010
Remembering an old friend today. You were much loved.
Catherine Johnson
April 2, 2010
My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you Brenda.
Robbie Trafzer
April 1, 2010
I am thinking of all of you at this time. Kari is being remembered and she is loved.
May you have blessings and find comfort at this anniversary time of her passing.
Patti Brezina
March 31, 2010
I have been thinking about Kari so much this week. What a glorious time to remember our precious, beautiful friend as we also celebrate the reason we have hope! Thank you Jesus, for sweet Kari's life, both the one she lived here, and the one she now lives with You. I am so grateful to have known her and to have had the privilege of calling her my friend. Her presence and her peace were always a reminder of God's heart toward me. I knew God's love better through her heart of love and grace.
I pray you are all experiencing great grace and peace as you remember Kari.
Mindy Woody
March 31, 2010
Thinking of Kari and family today! She will always hold a special place in my heart. May God grant you peace and ease your pain on this day and all year through. I know you miss her every day!
Lisa Chalfant
August 22, 2009
I was a roommate of Kari's at UGA and just recently heard the news of Kari's death. I am deeply saddened.
Kimmi Balchunas Spolar
March 31, 2009
Thanks to all of you who have sent messages, well wishes, prayers and gifts over the past two years. We all miss her everyday. We rejoice that her life and passage into Glory was used by God for His purposes. To Bring many people to Christ. I know she is smiling and Dancing now with the Lord, rejoicing in His goodness to her.
Thanks again for all of your love and care for our entire family!
Robbie Trafzer
March 31, 2009
Today I am remembering Kari's family. She left them two years ago, but her beautiful memory is still so ingrained in everyone. Kari left behind her husband, mom & dad, her sister & many others. May Kari's spirit be felt today by all who loved her and peace be within you.
Robbie Trafzer
February 21, 2009
Kari's Family,
I have been thinking of her this week. Kari's birthdate was Feb 17.
She's still dropping pennies from heaven & I get so excited when I find them.
May you all have many blessings through all the days ahead without Kari's earthly presence.
There is no doubt her presence in the spirit is with us.
God love you all.
Marisa Brown
December 22, 2008
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you but especially at this time of year, when I could normally count on seeing your smiling face, the pain is that much worse. God has blessed us with much since you've gone and for that we're all grateful. Baby Kyle, Baby Andrew and a new baby on the way- I know we have Him and you to thank for that. Merry Christmas, Kari and Baby Bates, I love you.
Nina Simmons
December 20, 2008
I did not know Kari, but her Aunt Katy is a good friend of mine. I remember the day she told me of Kari's death, for I'll never forget. Katy had mentioned so many times Kari's life, getting married, how beautiful she was, and I really felt like I knew her.
We lost our son to cancer in '99, and like Kari, he was such a fine bold Christain, and good looking guy. He was 40, and has 3 sons'. There is not a day goes by that I don't remember him, and think of him, but---I know where Derek is, and he always said "mom, I'll be okay either way". This helps us go on. God blesses us with good memories, and we just have to hold on to those blessings from Him. By the way, one of our grandaughters is named Kari, and it's spelled just like that! We will remember Kari's family, and He will give strength to go on day by day. Hold on to those precious memories.
Patrick Dunn
December 19, 2008
Dear Ms. B and Kim,
I just found out today. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kari has touched so many peoples lives. She was a great big sister and always gave me great advise when I needed it. Thank you Kari.
As the seasons continue and spring comes again we witness the promise of new life. Kari Balchunas Bates will live on forever young.
Susan Perrine-McDaniel
December 9, 2008
Kari, I MISS YOU SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH! Hear me please, help me to come to some sort of peace, I believe I thought I had when I got married and I was finally able to talk to your sister, I would love to hear your sweet adorable lovable voice. Help me through my trying times, God is my Lord and Saviour and I love you for loving me enough to have him shine through me. Miss you see you! Love, Susan
Mindy (Fuller) Woody
December 8, 2008
Dear Mrs. B, Kimmi, & Joseph,
I only found out today about the passing of Kari and her baby. I cannot tell you how saddened I am of the news. She was such a special friend to me in high school. I share so many great memories and will never forget. Kari had such a huge heart and touched everyone she knew. I regret losing touch with Kari and family during college. I've always known that Kari had a special calling.
Much Love ~
Scott Tollus
October 28, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Kari's passing. My heart sank deep when I heard the news today. I've always loved Kari from the first day I met her as a new student from New Jersey. I was her first friend at Pope High School. She was one of the nicest people I ever had the chance to meet. My heart goes out to her and her family. I will keep you all in my prayers. I will never forget her. She will remain in my heart forever. She is in a better place now and we must remember all the wonderful times spent together. She was and is an Angel form heaven.
Love to her and her family always,
Aunt Kathy Black
March 31, 2008
I love and miss you so much, Kari...You are in my heart and thoughts every day..I'm so thankful for all the "alone time" we had riding to Starbucks and shopping for the wedding "bargains"..We will see you soon..keep sending us those pennies!! Eternal love, Aunt Kathy
Robbie Trafzer
March 31, 2008
A year ago today Kari became a Dragon Fly and flew away to her heavenly home. You are missed here on earth Kari but now you are no longer sick. You & Joseph's child are together..rest in peace. May all the loved ones left here on earth have peace in their heart. Ray says thanks for the penny you dropped from heaven this morning, Kari!
You are a breathe of fresh rain and sunshine to us all.
kt tobin flusser
March 19, 2008
The Dragonfly
Once, in a little pond, in the muddy water under the lily pads,
there lived a little water beetle in a community of water beetles. They lived a simple and comfortable life in the pond
with few disturbances and interruptions.
Once in a while, sadness would come to the community when one of their fellow beetles would climb the stem of a lily pad and
would never be seen again. They knew when this happened; their
friend was dead, gone forever.
Then, one day, one little water beetle felt an irresistible urge
to climb up that stem. However, she was determined that she would not leave forever. She would come back and tell her friends what she had found at the top.
When she reached the top and climbed out of the water onto the
surface of the lily pad, she was so tired, and the sun felt so warm, that she decided she must take a nap. As she slept, her body changed and when she woke up, she had turned into a beautiful blue-tailed dragonfly with broad wings and a slender body designed for flying.
So, fly she did! And, as she soared she saw the beauty of a whole new world and a far superior way of life to what she had never known existed.
Then she remembered her beetle friends and how they were thinking by now she was dead. She wanted to go back to tell them, and explain to them that she was now more alive than she had ever been before. Her life had been fulfilled rather than ended.
But, her new body would not go down into the water. She could
not get back to tell her friends the good news. Then she
understood that their time would come, when they, too, would
know what she now knew. So, she raised his wings and flew off
into her joyous new life!
~Author Unknown~
we miss you so much kari and think of you all the time
-kt, matt, padraig, myles, and maeve
Kimberli Spolar (Balchunas)
March 17, 2008
We have all missed our sweet Kari beyond imagining for almost a year now. All are invited to a celebration of her life and her passing into Glory. Please come celebrate Friday March 28 through Sunday March30th. The Big Party will be Sat 29th. Please contact me for more details.
Love to All,
Kimmi
Robbie Trafzer
December 10, 2007
Kari...I am thinking of you during this holiday time..your family misses you so much, but they also know you are dancing with your Lord. Still finding the pennies you are dropping from heaven. You are gone from us but not forgotten.
May peace be with your family during this holiday season without your earthly presence...you will be with them in spirit.
Brian Robinson
November 5, 2007
I am feeling a great loss today in learning of the passing of Kari and Child. Kari was a great friend with exceptional character and loyalty. I can only imagine how much difficulty this has had on my friends, Kim and Ms B. I hope yall know how much we are thinking of you.
Ryan Cameron
November 5, 2007
My prayers and thoughts go out to the Balchunas and Bates family. Kari was a wonderful person and will be missed.
Will Lummus
October 19, 2007
I learned of the passing of Kari and her baby today and my thoughts and prayers go out to all of her family and friends during this time. I was a good friend with Kari and Kim in high school but like many people lost touch once we all went off to college. Kari always has and always will have a special place in my heart. God bless.
Holly Pecht (Harden)
October 18, 2007
I have just learned about the passing of Kari and her baby and I am stunned. Although, we have not been in touch over the past few years, Kari and Kimmie and Brenda go through my thoughts often. How can they not? Most of my college days were spent with Kari. Her smile and laughter always made me laugh. She worked so hard to make the perfect grade and put together the perfect outfit! I have very fond memories of our times together. The pictures of Kari are just beautiful. She did not age a bit! She looks exactly as she did in 1994! It is comforting to know we all know where Kari is and we will see her again some day. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love Holly and Stacy Pecht
Ted Meihofer
October 9, 2007
I have a pit in my stomach after hearing the news of Kari's passing. A large part of my high school years were spent with Kim, Kari, and Ms. B. I just found out today and an unbelievable amount of emotions have come up. I want to mention how deeply saddend I am to hear this. I just remember such a vivid smile and caring eyes. You will be truly missed Kari.
Ms. B and Kim and family, I am praying for you to find peace. You 3 have a special place in my heart.
Lynne Callaway
June 8, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Chanin Cullen
June 5, 2007
Looking at the pictures, Kari had grown into such a beautiful young woman. I will never forget Kari because she made everyone around her feel special, no matter who you were. My prayers are with your family right now.
Jill, John, Adam,Iain and Neil McDonald
May 23, 2007
We were saddened to hear the tragic news about Kari. We have fond memories of your family at Ringwood Community Presbyterian Church. The prayers and thoughts of our whole family are with you all at this time.
Donna Cornell
April 30, 2007
"We look up to the heavens
and see the shining star
We hear your spirit speak --
You never will be far" Kari touched my life with her beauty and grace. But more than that, when I suffered in the loss of a loved one, she embraced me and helped me heal. She is one of God's remarkable beings. We must hold her memory close. Donna
Ted Gerard
April 29, 2007
Kari and The Balchunas Family threw the best pool parties, and dance party's(Club Diamond) in middle school. She was always a great friend to me. I lost touch with her, but always thought of her time to time. It hurts me to hear this sad news. My payers are with her.
Kathleen (Captoni) Stevens
April 28, 2007
Dear Brenda, Kimmi and Joseph
We were so saddened by the news of Kari and her baby's passing. From the time we all knew you all in Ringwood and remembering the great times we spent together. We have some wonderful memories. We could tell Kari had a great sweet, tender, sincerity about her. She had warmth in her eyes that made you feel special when you were with her. We knew then that she was someone special. You were all very special to us. Brenda you and the girls have remained on our minds since you have left Ringwood. Wondering how you all were doing. Again we are all so very sorry to here about Kari and her baby. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all always.
John & Lois Captoni, Wellsboro, PA
Colleen (Captoni) Naclerio, Pine Bush, NY
Sandi Ruedt
April 18, 2007
Kimmie and Brenda, Kari was such a warm and wonderful person. I have strong and fond memories of her peace and friendship (as well as all of you) to this day. Love, Sandi Ruedt
Jean and Norman Ruedt
April 18, 2007
We were so sorry to hear about Kari's passing. It brought back fond memories we had together with the Balchunas family as our children grew up together. Our hearts go out to all the family. We know your hearts are broken, and we can't imagine your pain. Of course you will be in our prayers that the peace only God can give will enfold you and that the support of family and friends will see you through this very difficult time. All our love and God's blessings.
Denise Bove
April 16, 2007
Brenda and Kimmie, I cannot tell you how upset I was when I heard about Kari (Meri Nichols told me tonight). I was just talking to you Brenda about the girls - what two weeks ago. I know we will see her again when we go home. You and your family are in my prayers. Please give my condolences to her loving husband for his loss. I am so sorry. I would have called you Brenda but thought I would wait a few weeks. Love Denise
Alyse Fox Ramer
April 16, 2007
I am so sorry to hear about Kari. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Suzanne Cooper-Behnke
April 15, 2007
Dear Kimmie and Mrs. B (Brenda), I am so sorry to hear of your loss, My mom Marge Cooper contacted me yesterday, she read the news in the local paper in Butler NJ.... If you remember I danced with both Kari And Kimmie in Ringwood, They were very special times for all of us back then... We will continue to pray for your entire family....I am not surprised after reading her guest book, what a beautiful woman she has become....Our prayers will be you always.
Love, Suzanne Cooper-Behnke and Marge Cooper..
Megan Kincaid(Heinzelman)
April 13, 2007
Kimmie and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Kari. It has been years since I saw you in Marietta, but will never forget Kari's sweet personality and smile. My prayers are with you and your family during this very sad time.
Mindy Staley
April 13, 2007
I just found out about Kari's death yesterday when I went into Starbucks after a two week absence from the store, which I have visited daily for many years. I was so saddened by the tragic news. Kari was such a sweet, welcoming person and I looked forward to seeing her at Starbucks every day. I'm pregnant too and we compared notes on how we were feeling, etc. She will be greatly missed. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Johnny and Susanne Burnham
April 12, 2007
Joseph, Bates Family and Kari's Family,
We have been so blessed by Kari's ministry! When she would dance it moved us deeply. She danced home to Jesus! Can't wait to see her again.
Our prayers are with you all.
Johnny and Susanne
Jim Phillips
April 12, 2007
I just heard of this tragedy from Ryan Kenny. Although I've not seen Kari since 9th grade it deeply saddens me to hear of this. I have never forgotten her or her family. Kari was always so nice and had a great smile that'd make you feel good inside. The middle school parties are unforgettable and hold such great memories for all that were there. Mrs. B, I've never forgotten how sweet you were to me at those parties and other Ryerson functions. I wish I could give you a great big hug. 8-) My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you all. Love, Jimmy Phillips
Elaine Fox
April 12, 2007
I didn't know Kari but what a wonderful legacy she left her family and friends. To hear of her relationship with Christ and her love for him and her family has touched my heart. You are all in my prayers.
Elaine Fox (friend of Kari's Aunt Judith Smith)
Jenn Gallo
April 12, 2007
Kimmi and Mrs. B.,
I'm very sorry to hear of your loss and my thoughts are with you. Be well and much love.
Jamie Pukl
April 11, 2007
Kimi and family,
My family and I just heard of your devastating loss. Although we haven't seen you in many years, we are so sorry and our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Marissa, Kimmi, Kari & Kirsten at the Lake
April 11, 2007
Kari strikes a pose
April 11, 2007
Kimmi & Kari
April 11, 2007
Sisters
April 11, 2007
Aunt Kari at Kirsten's 2nd b-day
April 11, 2007
Kimmi, Kiki & Kari comb the Maine beach
April 11, 2007
Aunt Kari takes Kiki to the market
April 11, 2007
Joseph & Kari with newborn neice Kirsten
April 11, 2007
Dr. Bartholomew
April 11, 2007
Sorry to hear about your loss. Your family are in our hearts and prayers. Dr. Bartholomew and staff
Susan Perrine
April 11, 2007
Thank you Marissa for your last entry. I agree, I'm having a really difficult time accepting this and to be quite honest, feel slightly cheated. The only thing that keeps me going is knowing that Kari and baby are fine, healthy, happy and praying for us left here struggling. I constantly feel her near me, I pray for her to continue being near me. Thank you again Kari for who you are and always making me feel so special. You truly are a Gift from God. All my Love & Prayers, Susan
Leslie Espino
April 10, 2007
Kimberli & Tim,
We just learned of your devastating loss. Kari was such a beautiful young woman. We are lucky to have met and spent time with her and Joseph on Kirstens 1st birthday. You all are in our thoughts constantly. I hope you feel our love over the distance that we now have between us. Kari is smiling down upon you.
All of our love to you,
Leslie, Jose, Jack & Cole Espino
Marisa
April 9, 2007
I've returned home, gone back to work and resumed my 'normal' life. But nothing about it seems normal. I just can't wrap my arms around this and I'm not sure if I ever will. I am saddened to the core for our family and your beautiful friends. Your journal entry did not fall on deaf ears.
I love you.
Your cousin,
Ryan Kenny
April 9, 2007
A friend of mine forwarded me this link. I have not spoken to Kari since middleschool. Seeing her picture brought back memories and knowing that she has passed really made me sad. The Kari that i knew was really sweet and I am sure that she remained that way until she passed. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family.
John Costa
April 9, 2007
Kari and I ministered together in Amsterdam on the 1995 mission trip lead by Pastor Mike. She has always had a special place in my heart. The Lord really used her to touch the people we meet. I know her and Laura are dancing before the throne. Isaiah 57: 1-2
John
Angie (Ausburn) Smith
April 9, 2007
Dear Joseph, Brenda, and Kim:
I am so sad to hear about your loss. I remember Kari's infectious smile and laugh from high school. She was such a fun person to be around! I hate it that we lost touch after high school. I so wish that I could have known her these last years. What a joy to read about her passion for the Lord! I pray that the Father would comfort you and give you peace that passes all understanding during this terrible time.
Rachel Hudson
April 8, 2007
Knowing Kari is with sweet Jesus makes her passing a little easier to bear. She is His treasure, beautiful and gentle- she has made an imprint on my heart and makes me want to love Jesus even more, and know his compassion for people more, and be a radical but loving example of who He is as she was. Joseph and family, the Lord hears you and has collected your tears in a bowl and He has turned that which is in the bowl into joy which will be poured over you. Praise Jesus- Maranatha!
Ginger Sinclair
April 8, 2007
I love Kari. I am so sorry that she is gone from our company and I am so glad that she is with the one person that we all long for. No words seem adequate to express the depth of loss that I feel and I know it's only a fraction of the loss that Joseph, Tim, Kimmi, Kirsten, Brenda and Craig feel. I am so sorry for the loss of the gift of having her near you each day. May the Lord be your peace and comfort daily.
Barbara Traylor
April 7, 2007
Brenda, Kim, and Tim: Sometimes when life looks the bleakest is when we can see more clearly the blessed Savior and what He did for us. I thank God for Kari, and the Christ-like life she exemplified while on this earth. I know that Heaven is brighter today because she is there. As I participate in Easter service tomorrow, I will remember Kari, because the resurrection is the reality of that great promise for all who believe and we know that she did that. She touched many lives with her love for Jesus, and I pray that He will surround you with His love and give you His comfort.
JIMMY & WILLA OGLETREE
April 7, 2007
Brenda, Kim, and Joseph, words cannot express the heartbreak Willa and I have have felt for you all this past week with Kari's passing. You have been in our prayers each and everyday. Though we did not get to see Kari often it was always a special time when we did. She was such a warm and caring Christian person. I know there is a special place in heaven for her. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly places with every spirtual blessing in Christ". (Ephesians 1:3)
Cousin Jimmy & Willa Ogletree (Toney, Al)
Katrice Williams
April 7, 2007
I was of great distraught upon hearing the news of my dear freinds passing yet soothed to know that she is with our Lord. I new Kari for a short one and a half months but felt like a lifetime. She truely touched my heart and soul and I will miss her laugh and jokes for the rest of my days. I now that mother and child are touching the lives of those in heaven but we will meet again. I love and miss you:-). My prayers are with all family,friends, and people touched by her gift.
Carol Martin Dolin
April 7, 2007
Dear Joseph and Kari's family,
I met Kari through Bulldog Chrisitan Fellowship and Living Faith/Church of the Nations! Kari was a wonderful girl who truly loved the Lord! We are so saddened to hear of her & the baby's loss! I know that words can't express your loss right now! We are praying for the Holy Spirit to comfort you during this time!I can only imagine what she is seeing at this time ~~ how glorious to be with Jesus!!
In Christ's Love,
Carol Martin Dolin & family
Renee Zaccardelli
April 6, 2007
Dear Joseph and Family
I was a friend of Kari's from Pope High School. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I pray that you will find peace and comfort in your time of sorrow. My prayers are with you and all that were touched by Kari's life.
Peace,
Renee Zaccardelli
Kathryn Blackmon
April 6, 2007
Dear Joseph, Kim, Tim and family my heart goes out to you as you grieve the sudden loss of your precious Kari. She was (and is) such a beautiful reflection of Jesus. I'm so thankful for the gift of her friendship and the way she inspired me with her worship of our Lord. She's experiencing the fulfillment of that now and I look forward to the day when we all join with her in worshipping our King.
God bless you and keep you in the coming days. I will continue to pray for you all.
Catherine and David Johnson
April 6, 2007
Brenda,Kimberli,and Craig we are so sorry for your great loss. Our prayers are with you.
Sarah Johnson
April 6, 2007
What a heart of gold, what a passion for life, and what a love for God Kari had. She and that precious baby were truly loved. We will miss you. Joseph, Tim and Kim-my love and prayers are with you.
Lori Haly Hollaran
April 6, 2007
I am praying for the family as you grieve through this most trying time. Reading all the fond memories and stories of Kari assures me that she continued to be the same beautiful, charismatic, intelligent, and caring friend she was back in high school. God bless her and her loved ones. Those who live in the Lord never see eachother for the last time.... she is in gods hands now. My deepest sympathy, Lori Haly Hollaran
meridith (lentini) ashley
April 6, 2007
To kari's mom and sister whom i have not seen in many years i am so sad to hear of your loss. i had tried to contact kari after seeing her posted on her hawaiin hotel honeymoon website but was unable. i am so sad to know maybe i could have contacted her. she was a good childhood friend. i remember her visiting me after i moved from ringwood; it meant a lot to me.
Kara Noyes Willis
April 6, 2007
To all of Kari's family and friends. Kari was indeed a beautiful girl, both inside and out.... what was remarkable about Kari was that deep inner peace that she seemed to exude even as a young person in High School. My memories of Kari are of the light in her eyes and her wonderful smile and the graciousness that she extended in her friendships. She is with God now- I know that. I am deeply sorry for all of you and your loss.
Keri (Lieberman) Daniele
April 6, 2007
I woke up this morning and although I have not spoken to Kim in years, she was weighing heavily on my mind. Upon searching to find a way to contact her, I sadly found out about Kari. Kim, Ms. B, Joseph- I can not tell you how sorry I am for your loss, nor can I know the pain you must be experiencing. Although I have not seen Kari in several years, it is easy to see how many lives she touched. I hope you are able to find some peace and comfort in knowing what joy she brought to those around her each day. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
jennifer Hulsey
April 6, 2007
I want to offer my condolances; during this very difficult time.
Barbara & John Nicolo
April 6, 2007
We were so sorry to hear about your great loss. You were blessed to have her in your lives. May God's gentle love & kindness be with you. You all will be in our thoughts & prayers.
Love,
Barbara & John
Ringwood
Harriett Ward
April 5, 2007
Our love and prayers are with Kari's family. Jennifer and I will always remember the wonderful spirit that she had and are very saddened to hear of her passing. Our Love to the family
Trish (Holland) Cobb
April 5, 2007
I knew Kari in highschool. She was always such a joy...such spunk and charisma...made so many feel so special and loved. I know that many, many, many people will miss her...I will look forward to the day when I can see her (with her little one in her arms...) up in Heaven...what a day of rejoicing that will be...Will pray that as you mourn and grieve her and the baby's death that He will comfort and sustain you in ways you simply can't explain...
Janis and Gary Erickson
April 5, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Dorothea & Harrison Howland
April 5, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Nicolo / Puskas
April 5, 2007
Brenda & Kimi
I am deeply saddened by the news of Kari's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Brenda Nicolo / Puskas
April 5, 2007
Mrs. B & Kimi
I am deeply saddened by the news of Kari's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
michael rhodes
April 5, 2007
'Brethren I do not wish for you to be ignorant about those who have fallen asleep so that you may not grieve as those who have no hope' (1 Th 4.13). The hope of which St Paul speaks here is expressed clearly in the next verse (v 14): 'we believe that Jesus died and rose again'. This is why he uses the term 'ton koimomenon', 'the ones who are sleeping', because by death (thanatos) the Deathless One (athanatos) has conquered death, and we now have the hope of deathless-life (athanasia) in Him. So we grieve because of the loss of one so precious, but not ‘as those who have no hope’. I have many fond memories of Kari and our UGA friends, and am grieved by the news of her falling asleep. Christos anesti! (Christ is risen!)
Rick & Carol Stevens
April 5, 2007
To Craig and Pam and all of Kari's friends and family, please accept our sincere condolences for your loss. We only knew Kari through her father's adoring words and the sparkle in his eye when he spoke of her, but it is obvious from that as well as the outpouring of sympathy from so many others, that Kari was a loved and loving person who will be sadly missed. May God bless Kari and all of you during this difficult time.
Kerri Minton
April 5, 2007
Brenda, Kimi:
My heart is broken because I can't be there today. I sat in church Sunday crying with the picture of Kari dancing in heaven and worshipping Him and all of his Glory. My prayers are with all of you.
Love,
Kerri
Padam Singh
April 5, 2007
Joseph,
I met Kari only couple of times but it was such a great experience to know her. She was a wonderful person with great personality. Our thoughts and prayers will be you and your family.
Susie Andrews
April 5, 2007
We are praying for your family as you grieve your loss. Kari was the first one to encourage Iris to love dancing for the Lord. We are blessed to have known her. She is dancing in His presence now.
Tracey Birge
April 5, 2007
I was blessed to meet Kari at Starbuck's where she was always professional, lots of fun and made many of us feel special. As her faith is strong, I know she's joyfully with our Heavenly Father. The struggle is for the ones who love her left behind. I pray her family and friends find comfort in the fact she's touched so many.
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How to support Kari's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
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