KATE KOLCHIN

I first met Kate in Russia in 1989 when she and Ellis visited an International mathematical conference in Novosibirsk. I will never forget our conversations in Novosibirsk and later in Moscow; I have learned so much from these two wonderful people. After moving to the United States in 1993, I joined the Kolchin seminar that met once a month on Saturdays. Every time I drove from Washington to KSDA I looked forward to the time when all the seminar participants would come to the Kate's place...

I had only twice the chance of participating to the KSDA seminar and post-seminar. So, I met Kate only twice but I keep her in my mind like a long last friend.
A few hours before the sad news arrived I was remembering with friends, Kate's parties, the good time I had there and the long conversations we had, especially on the education of girls in developing countries. I am deeply sad and want to present my sympathy to all of her relatives and close friends.

I feel very lucky and privileged to have attended Kate's legendary and unforgettable after-KSDA parties on several occasions. The first time was shortly after Ellis Kolchin's death, and nevertheless, Kate and her daughter welcomed us with smiles and open arms, wanting us to enjoy her place and not to mourn. I remember another time when a few of us were singing late that evening. I present my deepest sympathy to Ellen and Peter, and to the KSDA colleagues.

Kate was also a lover of classical music and was very supportive of musicians in my orchestra, Ensemble 212. I will always remember the good company I had with her at several of the parties she hosted at her place. My condolences to her friends and family.

I'll always remember the feast at Kate's home after a lecture at KSDA. She was so friendly and interested in people from every country. I'm very sad and express my condoleances to all her family (including KSDA).

Kate demonstrated a natural capacity for hospitality over the years through hosting several dinners and other events for participants of the Seminar. I appreciated her efforts greatly. She was also a thoughtful and caring humanitarian.

As an early childhood education alumna of Teachers College and a firm believer in the role of the United Nations in the lives of young children, I met Kate in later years. I too will remember the meetings of friends and colleagues at what I called her "perfect New York City apartment." Her legacy will last through the hearts and minds of her friends and the lives of young children enriched by her contributions.

For the last 15 years or so, Kate had been a strong supporter of the Kolchin Seminar in Differential Algebra (KSDA), and had welcomed many of its regular attendees and speaker guests to her home. While we no longer can enjoy her meticulously prepared feasts, we will always remember her hospitality, generosity, loving friendship and encouragement.

William Sit

Kate's kindness, generosity, and hospitality, her lively intellect, and her wide-ranging interests were very engaging, and I'm among the many who will miss her. My sincere condolences to Peter and Ellen and all the family.