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Clarissa Engstrom Obituary
Nelson Engstrom
BLUE DIAMOND, NV -- Dr. Clarissa Nelson Engstrom, also known by her family and friends by the nickname 'Gooey', departed this life on March 8, 2012 at her home in Blue Diamond, Nevada.
She was born on June 3, 1967 in Concord, NC and lived life on her own terms including the end. By her request, a family ceremony was held at The Overlook in Red Rock Canyon Park where her ashes were scattered.
She is survived by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. George Engstrom of Concord; sisters, Lisa Nisenson (Aaron) and son Nathan of Sarasota, FL, Andrea McKay (Harry) and son Stanton and daughter Georgia of Concord, Dr. Elana 'Chicky' LePabic (Pierre) and daughter Cecile of Irvine, CA. She is also survived by her Blue Diamond surrogate family of Joe Davidson and all of his staff at Cactus Joe's Blue Diamond Nursery where she had a home. The remaining survivors are a flock of dogs, cats and 2 pigs, 'Brittany Spareribs' & 'Lindsey Loham"' all of whom were rescued by Clarissa from injuries or neglect and lived a life of freedom in the nursery to be admired and petted by the customers.
She graduated from Concord High School and then spent 2 years as a Dean's List student at Wake Forest Univ. She transferred to UNC-CH 'to find herself' which she did converting to vegetarianism and graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. She then followed her older sister's example by joining the Peace Corp teaching animal husbandry in Zaire. She also worked at the Jane Goodall Foundation & Wildlife International building a health care facility for infant chimps. Her tour was interrupted by revolution and she was air evacuated by the French Air Force to Rwanda where she joined Population Services International's AIDS' prevention Program. She was an effective worker because she spoke Swahili, African French and a number of tribal dialects. After her services the family received a letter from the director praising her work and stating that the natives now called condoms 'Little Gooies'. On returning to the states, she worked at the Smithsonian Institute's Natural History Museum cataloging their small animal collection. This interest led to her entering the North Carolina State Univ. School of Veterinary Medicine. On graduation, she received a Rotarian International Ambassadorial Scholarship and read her Masters in Science at the Royal Dick Veterinarian School in Edinburg, Scotland. She studied and did her field research in Lahore, Pakistan on diseases in donkeys. While there she also worked to identify horse blood parasites at Brooke Hospital for Animals. While abroad and on her Ambassadorial scholarship, she spoke to many rotary clubs in Lahore and in Scotland and more recently in Nevada. Because of the unstable international political scene in 2001 she returned stateside and in 2002 accepted a position at a private veterinary practice in Las Vegas NV. Following this she worked as an emergency room vet. and did locum tenens work while doctors were on vacation. Her latest work was her own project of a mobile euthanasia unit she called 'Heaven at Home'. This allowed owners to comfort the animal before the procedure. It was a growing business. Dr. Clarissa held a patent she first conceived in vet school for a device to easily measure animal's vital signs and also held 7 trademarks the last being 'Kale Yeah' which she was going to use to promote this fibrous veggie in diets. She also had a 'Demonstration Kale Yeah Garden' at Cactus Joe's Nursery where she grew vegetables including collard greens that she claimed were the only ones grown in Nevada.
Her vivacious spirit, humor, her care and concern for those with less and the joy she brought to family and friends will be missed.
Memorials may be sent to animal organizations of your choice or to the following: An endowed scholarship in her memory at North Carolina State University School of Veterinary Medicine. Checks may be abbreviated NCVMF and mailed to 1060 William Moore Drive, Box 8401, Raleigh, NC 27607. Heaven Can Wait (a spay and neutering service in Las Vegas-www.HCWS.org) PO Box 30158, Las Vegas, NV 89173. The Society for Experimental Art and Learning, Attn: Cory Mervis, 1900 Walden Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89102.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Clarissa Engstrom
Sponsored by George Engstrom, Father.
David Lorenzo
March 11, 2026
I will be always so pleased to have met you once... I think about very often, you left a deep mark in my heart
Jan Mula
March 10, 2026
Still missing your sweet face
David Crothers
March 10, 2026
Miss you and love you my dearest friend. Not a day goes by without a wonderful memory that you left behind
Stacey Teixeira
June 11, 2025
Miss you, Gooey. You left a deep impression everywhere you went, and left all of our hearts broken. Hugs until we meet again
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David Crothers
June 8, 2025
Dear friend, I miss you so much! It´s because of you that I will never give up on my dreams,. I really could have used a little help if you stayed around. Life advice ect - my dog got sick he´s okay now but you would have figured it out in about 2 seconds what take's other vets 3weeks lol. But I know you are always here when I need you:) giving me a little push in the right direction.. I also know that wherever you are now there they are truly to have you ! I love you gooey I hope your family is happy and doing well . Talk to you soon ;)
Jan Mula
June 7, 2025
I think of you often and miss that face, that wit and your caring self
JC
June 6, 2025
Rest in heavenly peace, my friend, on your birthday.
Missing you more with each passing year.
J. Natale
May 14, 2024
My friend told me about you and reading your story has made me realize what we all lost with your passing. Rest In Peace you brilliant, kind and loving soul.
David Crothers
March 11, 2024
If tears could build a stairway,and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again.
The Vegas piggies
March 10, 2024
Seems like only yesterday we talked and laughed about animal stories and still carry the hopes you always wished for. Miss you my awesome vet and crazy, funny friend!
Janice Mula
March 9, 2024
Still miss you and your gardening advice is sorely needed
JC
March 8, 2024
Miss you more and more with each passing year.
Karen Dedoes-Goodman
March 11, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
David Crothers
March 10, 2023
Your always In my heart :) love you lady
Jan Mula
March 10, 2023
I still think of you, missing your wit and that big ol´ smile..till we meet again
David Lorenzo Vaquero
March 14, 2022
Dear Gooey,
Your personality and impact in other people went further than the rest. Some spetial ones like you had the ability to share life with others and open the minds to a brilliant and different world.
Thank you for being like you were and for living as you did.
Hope to meet you again in Heaven xxx
Amn Bartley
March 11, 2022
Its been 10 years now. And I still think of you often and fondly. I will always miss you.
Crystal M KimHan
March 10, 2022
Think of you often my friend! <3
Jan Mula
March 10, 2022
Still miss you sugar, I´ll see you over the bridge one day
J McCollum
March 10, 2021
Still missing you so much Gooey !
David Crothers
March 10, 2021
Love and miss you gooey❤
Jan Mula
March 10, 2021
I’m still missing you sugar
Ann Bartley
March 10, 2021
I miss you more than words can express.
David Crothers
March 10, 2020
You are always in my heart . And I always share so many of our stories you are never forgotten . Miss you and love you gooey ❤
June 6, 2019
Thinking of you on your birthday, Gooey.
Miss you beyond words.
~ JC, Nevada
Becky Phlegar
March 11, 2019
Think of you often and smile! Until we meet again!
Michelle K.
March 10, 2019
Still miss you, Goo. But, when you cross my mind, I smile. <3
Jan Mula
March 10, 2019
Still miss your face and wit, I think of you often and will see you one day across the bridge
Terrell Potter
March 10, 2019
Gooey, your spirit lives on in all those you inspired and helped. I appreciate every slice of cheesy bread you made and will always remember your level of care and compassion. Thank you for being an amazing teacher and helping me grow. I am treating your baby Jesus well.
David Crothers
March 10, 2019
There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you and the joy you gave me and the world around you .
March 8, 2019
March 8, 2019: I am still sad six years later. I would give a million dollars to hear that incredible voice one more time. :)
DAVID LORENZO
August 29, 2018
Dear Gooey,
my heart still stops when you come to my mind.
The time de spent together in Edimburg was an unexpected gift. You filled my soul of light, i learnt a lot from you...
Your voice and presence will always echoes in my head. I feel proud to have met you once.
Love you darling ❤
March 21, 2017
Still miss you, Gooey, my dear fiend. I think of you often.
>^..^<
Shannon Wright
January 15, 2016
Wow. I am so incredibly saddened to hear of Gooey's passing. I recently moved back to Las Vegas, after being gone for 15 years. I was inquiring about her when another veterinarian we worked with back in the day told me the news. My heart is very sad. I had the privilege to work with Gooey at two different animal hospitals. She was an amazing person, one who certainly made an impact on me. She was such a smart and deep-feeling person. I am very sorry for your loss.
Deanna Langer
June 11, 2015
You are missed so very much, I want to laugh when I think of your beautiful spirit, & then cry at the thought of never being able to speak to you again.
All My Love Always Deanna & The Kids!❤
Patti Merkt
June 11, 2015
Still remembering Gooey. Gone too soon.
LM
June 10, 2015
Dr. Gooey was greatly admired by my son Jacob Maldonado, who also passed away in 2012. He had nothing but good things to say about your dear daughter. May they fly high together...
kimberly Miles
April 11, 2014
Sooooo amazing! She is alive in the rainbow! If you look at just the right angle she will reveal herself! Love you goddess! Does anyone know who held her license to practice mobile? I want to introduce a 'mini' Gooey to the Las Vegas area. Pretty please assist. ,0) Doctor Clarissa would approve!
April 9, 2014
After listening to us sob for about a week on the phone, Dr. Gooey came to our house on Tuesday at 4:00 February 7, 2012. My baby, Bailey, a 13 year old golden retriever and the love of my life, had to exit the world and thank God for Dr. Gooey and her gentle way. As we all sat around him watching his labored breathing, Dr. Clarissa waltzed into the house like I swear- a ray of sunlight. I had never met this lady ever, and yet she had such an indescribable lightness about her. It was like she instantly changed the mood in the room. I wasnt scared for Bailey, I felt peace with Dr. Clarissa. I am so devastated, now, two years later, one of my other angel dogs is on heavens door steps and as I search for Dr. Clarissa, I just can't believe this. She was a remarkable soul who although I knew for merely minutes, will hold an everlasting foot print on my heart. Rest in peace sweet soul -you will never know how your act of kindness by relieving my baby of his pain at home affected our lives.
tl
March 19, 2014
742 Missing you everyday
Janis
March 18, 2014
I miss you.
February 21, 2014
I still think of you every day and miss the heck out of you cackalacky
Ian Williams
February 19, 2014
Gooey-
You were a wild spirit in that one-room house on Ransom Street in Chapel Hill, and I was a silly fratboy across the street, but I found you utterly magical. Every room you entered got more interesting. We all loved hanging out with you, every second, even back in the late '80s when we were all nothing more than pancake batter. I would have loved my little girl to meet you; instead, I will tell the stories.
Sharon Maynard
February 8, 2014
Our family was so sorry to hear of her passing. She help with the difficult decision to put our dear Duke to sleep. We immediately could see what a caring & loving person she was. She came on Christmas Eve 2011 and was so supportive and wonderful to us & our dear Duke. I'm sure she is missed very much. Our sympathy's to her family and friends. What a kind soul.
Roy Isserlis
January 20, 2014
I'm in disbelief that we've lost you Gooey. As one of my closest friends I could tell you anything and you listened. Thank you for showing me so much of your America, I'm glad you found Burningman even though it was by a route only you could take. I think of you everytime I visit Summerhall, the Dick Vet where you studied, and I'm glad it's now a meeting place for beautiful people. You would love what they have done with it. Just so glad we caught up properly in 2011, but devastated that we'll never run through Edinburgh's streets again.
LAURA MAIN
May 16, 2013
Dearest Gooey, you made me smile. Edinburgh is very sad to hear you have passed, but I know that wherever you are your soul continues to shine. We feel very blessed to have met you on your journey. Thank-you for some good times!
Ah! we had such fun here in bonny Edinburgh. I remember your love of hats, mostly bought from Jenners in Princess street ;) You had some wonderful outfits, especially the one you hand made from artificial flowers (quite skimpy! ) and used some fake foliage for a boa!! I must find that picture! Amazing!.. and then there was that wonderful fruit bonnet! haha!
Gooey lovely, you are loved. You are not gone though, not really, your energy and the love you gave continues to circulate out there and everywhere. Sleep well bonny lass, continue the journey xxxxxx
Eric Lahm
October 31, 2012
I just found out today from Eric Randall that Gooey is gone. Many years have gone since training in SC and our Peace Corps experience. Gooey was a one of kind person, she spoke her mind, meant what she said and always made me and everyone around her laugh. She was completely true to who she was and we were all better for her company. She had an impact on me and I am truly sorry to hear she is gone. I will always smile when I remember her.
Gooey taking a break from pounding cassava to try some fish, Bukavu, Zaire, 1990.
Gina Rowe
October 23, 2012
Gooey was the first person I met in Peace Corps training in South Carolina in 1989 before we left for Zaire. We were roommates for two months, and she was one of the most unique, vibrant people I've ever met. Even at that young age, she knew exactly who she was. She taught me how to eat grits and how to laugh at myself. I remember she talked in her sleep, as if the days weren't long enough to contain all the living she intended to do. Most of my memories of her are of her laughing in joy, completely outraged by some injustice, or else plotting to make someone else laugh, or to rectify an injustice. After Peace Corps when we both lived in Washington, DC, Gooey gave me some photos of children eating fish at her post in Zaire, because she knew that I had lost most of mine when we were evacuated. She said, "This is what we did, Gina; we helped hungry childen have fish to eat."
This is such sad news to hear that she is gone. It just doesn't seem possible. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. I will never forget her or cease to smile when I remember the force of light she was in the world.
Kurt Shultz
October 23, 2012
So sorry for your loss. Gooey was an incredible person and one of the most unique people I have ever met. I was lucky to serve with her in Peace Corps and although we did not keep in touch over the years, she made a permanent impression on me.
Joe Arceneaux
October 23, 2012
I just found about Gooey leaving us. We were friends in the Peace Corps. She was truly an illiminating presence full of boundless creative energy.
They broke the mold when they made her. She will be missed by all of us who knew her.
Amy Parker
October 23, 2012
I think Gooey's Peace Corps friends are just now hearing of the news. We're spread out all over the world and I know each of us has one of those stories that others would never believe, but knowing Gooey, *everyone* believes. Bakia mzuri, rafiki. Ulale bien.... ninakupenda sana.
-Mapendo
David Crothers
August 19, 2012
Gooey was like my big sister, she was always their for me, and my familly, she changed my life in so many ways. Love you Clarissa.
Harry Macpherson
May 24, 2012
Clarissa spent a year with us in Scotland studying for her Masters. Vibrant, funny, intelligent, irreverent, perceptive, - where most people saw an everyday object, Clarissa saw beauty - in a tree, or whatever. Articulate, industrious, innovative. The world is a little poorer now. Harry and Myra Macpherson
Kimberly Gyuran-Miles
April 22, 2012
To an amazing energy that i met almost one year ago. My incredible Sydney Ann, white Boxer, contracted cancer. I was referred to DR Carissa Nordstrom. Gooey, her preferred nickname. I told her of my cancer filled woes with my beloved friend, and she insisted that she meet Syd 'in advance' so that 'when the time came' Sydney would be relaxed. When i met this. incredible blonde 'high energy' gal, i fell instantly in love with her!!! I was looking at myself in the blonde version. We became vast friends. We shared contacts and recipes and GirlPower stories. We tried on more than one occassion to get our'guys' together with us for dinner...Regretfully, it never happened...that day came last year November 17th when Sydney passed out in the kitchen at 2 am...by 4 am Gooey had arrived..i laid whaling tears of sadness while. Gooey waited patiently for me to say my goodbyes...Sydney Ann lived a good life...12yrs old Dec 24 2011..almost. I went to contact her this morning because i finally was going to. adopt a pet. Also last nite was. the Woman of Distinction Awards (NAWBO..national association of woman business owners)...i tried to nominate her in January...too humble to comply...As a recognized. business owner and community leader for under privledged.....i want to go on record to say.....Clarissa was and still IS aWODA winner in my eyes!!!!! She always will be a fantasticfriend healer and Dr. I must say i am a better person for knowing her!!! I am looking for a college buddy who is still in college(was in NY end of last year) studying further education in her field and owns a practice OR 2 in southern CA. I would really like to connect with her!!! Keep the faith.......support locally owned woman businesses!!! Gooey did!!
Natalie Spinelli
April 13, 2012
Although I hadn't seen you in years, I will never forget you being the first girl I ever knew that wore a makeshift belly-button piercing. :) You had a gem in your belly when we were kids and I was SO impressed. Haha! I remember your vivacious personality and your kindness. You will be missed. Thank you for all you did for the animals. Love, your cousin Nickie (Natalie)
Dear Dr. Gooey, The boys miss you.. They have grown so much. And today, just one month on the day of your passing "Clarissa" was born. A beautiful r
Annie Bartley
April 8, 2012
Tina Rosaci
April 6, 2012
She was amazing person, she put my dog down in Jan and was so loving and gentle.She made the whole experience with max one I will never forget. I told her she was an angle on earth to help all the animals like she did. Im very saden we lost a wonderful human being that give her life for helping sick animals. R.I.P. Dr. Goofy.
Teresa Bassett
April 5, 2012
I was so sorry to hear about Clarissa's passing. She and I had become friends just a couple of years ago. She was a bright light and is missed by so many. My prayers are with you and your family.
Teresa Bassett, Embroidery Store, Las Vegas
Traci
April 4, 2012
My heart goes out to Dr. Clarissa's friends and family. She always brightened my day when she came into my store. The last time I saw her we both laughed and cried and I hope I said Goodbye.
Nancy Roose
April 3, 2012
Our hearts go out to Dr E's family. She is already GREATLY missed. What a very SPECIAL impression she made on ALL of us. Definately a LOSS TO THE WORLD. Thank God for the time he allowed her to be with us. Our prayers are with you all. The Roose Family
Daphne Blackwelder
April 2, 2012
I never knew Dr. Engstrom but she definately lived a life that made a difference. It would have been great to have meet her. Prayers are with your family to have lost her so early.
Daphne Broome Blackwelder, Concord, NC
April 1, 2012
Dr. And Mrs. Engstrom, I went to school with Clarissa but she was a few years older. From all I have heard and read about her she was an amazing person who did it her way. RIP Gooey!
Danette Austin
March 29, 2012
I did not know her, but OH, how I wish I had! We would have been great friends! What a wonderful story of a truly inspiring young woman! Thank God for having blessed us with this woman. I am so sorry for your loss, but so happy for you having had her the time that you did. RIP & Godspeed Clarissa!
Deborah Adams
March 29, 2012
In memory of Gooey..
Gooey always called me 'Dab'. We started and graduated vet school together at NCSU-CVM...and I feel so blessed that I have shared some of the finest moments and best memories of my life with Gooey over the past 16 years. One of my first memories of Gooey was during the first week of our vet school experience...where in she walks one morning wearing apple-green, crush-velvet hip hugger vintage bellbottoms, with an equally vintage stretch poly button-down shirt....she looked fabulous, as only Gooey could pull off the outfit...long blond hair flowing and the neverending ray of sunshine that filled the room when she walked in. Truly, who has the _____ to pull that off?Although there are far too many ways to describe Gooey, as anyone who even knew her for one day would agree, one word would have to be abolutely charming.
She had courage and a keen sense of adventure. She was brillant. She was an outstanding veterinarian and adored her patients.
Once we made plans to meet up at the Bellagio as soon as I got into town....up she walks, in her usual fabulous style....a black fitted (vintage of course, ala Audry Hepburn) dress and the black hat with the gigantic orange flower that she had bought while living in Scotland (same hat store that the Queen Mother acquires some of hers)...and she has on during the shoot in All that grace and charm: this is Gooey and her obituary.
For a handbag she was carrying a vintage picnic basket. As we're sipping our champagne at the Petrossian Bar, in she reaches into the picnic basket only to pull out newborn kittens to bottle feed..that was typically Gooey.
I miss her more than words can ever say, and my heart goes out to her family. She will always remain within all of us that were so incredibly lucky to have had the good fortune to have met such an amazing lady! Love you Goo, Dab
March 29, 2012
During a time of need in our family, God answered our prayers and sent us Dr. Engstrom. It only took the short and only time we spent together to expereince and appreciate her genuine caring, kindness, gentleness, knowledge, humor and empathy. She was a blessing we'll never forget and she will always have a special place in our hearts.
Peka's Family
Teresa Kemple
March 29, 2012
I am so deeply saddened to learn of Dr Engstrom's passing. I only learned of this tragedy this morning. I met her on March 2nd when she was so very kind and compassionate to me while helping my beloved Golden Retriever, Roxy, pass to the Rainbow Bridge. She was so wonderful to me at such a difficult time, I only wish I had known to offer some compassion in return! During the one time I saw her, it was clear to me that she was a very special person. Our world most certainly has a whole left where she once was. I will always be thankful to her!
My most sincere condolences to her family and loved ones!
March 29, 2012
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Engstom,
Gooey was one of my very close friends during our freshamn year at Wake Forest, and we kept up with each other for a good while after she transferred to Chapel Hill. She was a dynamic force of nature, and could always make me laugh! As you can imagine, we were up to absolutely no good in college. Goo was always generous with her help in chemistry and with her wardrobe. I am so sorry for your loss, and hope that all of your warm memories of her will bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Martha Lawrence
Amanda
March 28, 2012
I didn't know Dr. Engstrom. I just read her obituary in today's paper. I'm so saddened by her death. I'm a huge animal lover as well, and my heart hurts that so many (four-leggeds, and two-leggeds) will not experience what a giving and loving person she was. My prayers go out to the family. There should be more people like Clarissa in this world.
Jenny Stanley Taylor
March 28, 2012
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Engstrom,
I had the honor of knowing Gooey in high school specifically with the high school soroity initiation time; I will never forget her, she was a joy to be around. I am so sad she is gone. My condolences to you and your family during this tremendous loss of life.
william Austin
March 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with All the Family.
Monika Simpson
March 28, 2012
Dear Dr. Engstrom and Linda,
I am so sorry about the loss of your daughter
Gooey. My heart goes out to you and Linda and your family.
Monika Simpson and Family
David Williams
March 27, 2012
Jane and I are saddened by the death of your beloved daughter.Although we did not know her, we know from all we have read about her that she was such an outstanding and giving person. The world is better for her sharing her caring nature.
Chuck Willson
March 27, 2012
Dear George and Liinda,
My heart breaks at the loss of your beloved Gooey. Wish I had known her. I've always felt honored to know you and Chicky and to have helped teach Chicky when she was here in Greenville. What an amazing family. gooey woudl have loved our farm with rescued horses, donkeys, cats, dogs and guinea hens.
I know you are proud.
Love you all,
Chuck Willson
March 27, 2012
I am a retired colleague of Clarissa's father whom I greatly admired and I'm not surprises he had such
an outstanding and giving daughter. I am saddened
by her death. Earl Trevathan.
March 26, 2012
Dear Linda and George, I am so sorry to hear about your daughter's passing. Thank you for sharing her great accomplishments; Clarissa was a very special person. Please accept my sincere sympathy. Lorie Trumfio, Cabarras County MGV
Charlie Fieselman
March 26, 2012
Hi Linda and George,
I am terribly sorry for your loss. Thank you for the obituary so that those who did not know her, could appreciate her life and contribution to bettering our world.
William Teal
March 25, 2012
Dear Dr Engstrom and Linda, and family,
Peggy and I wantto express our condolences for the passing of "Gooey." I know you have been very proud of her and her accomplishments, and her far-reaching exploits have been tremendous. As you have shared with me on a couple of occasions some of the things she was doing, I was amazed at her energy and breadth of knowledge in each of those areas she worked in. She really has made the family proud! She surely will be missed!
We have been very blessed to have known you and Linda over the years. Our mutual love of art has given us a common bond.
Our hearts hurt for you in this very sad and heart-ache time.We know it will hurt for a very long time, but remembering her in her element will help ease the pain. We want you all to know we pray for you and yours and will continue to do so, that our Lord Jesus may be very close and help you through the hard times. He has been with me, I know, in some very difficult times. Give all, our love, and our concern. Perhaps will see you soon. God bless, Bill and Peggy Teal
Kevin Jochems
March 25, 2012
Dr. Gooey was one of the most unique members of one of the most unique families that it was my pleasure to know growing up in Concord, NC. I have not seen her in many years but still have fond memories especially the weekend around Lisa and Aaron's Wedding in DC in 1994. Gooey worked at the Smithsonian at the time and even though i had been visiting DC since i was 10 it was readily apparent that Gooey knew DC much deeper and better than I. Thankfully she shared her knowledge with me and that weekend showed me more about a city i thought i knew. I am still here and still using some of Gooey's suggested paths and places of interest and like Gooey did-i am sharing the love!
My condolences to all who held Gooey dear, especially the Engstrom family. She was an amazing force and a person i am very proud to have known.
Norm Schilling
March 24, 2012
Dear Gooey,
I don't understand why you left us, but you are still with me, everyday, in the happiness of the life of Buckwheat. You saved him from the "blue syringe of death", nursed him back to health, fixed him, registered him with HomeAgain, and then called me to tell me about my new little dog. I'm not a little dog guy, but Buckwheat is so big in spirit...kind of like you. And you're right, he is about the best snuggling dog ever. So tonight, and many nights to come, when I feel his warm body and good heart next to me, I will think of you. I'll remember your smile, your wild and innocent spirit, and the beauty of the love in your heart. Me and the boys will miss you. Though I don't know what lays on the other side, I sure hope you're smiling. Thanks for giving so much love and life. Love you.
March 24, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss. May you be comforted in knowing that she can live again, one day without an end. - Ecclesiastes 3:11
March 24, 2012
Dr. Engstrom was a wonderful person and Vet. Kind and loving to all our clients and their pets when she worked as a relief at our clinic. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her Family. She will be very missed. We are sorry for your loss.
Dr. Flannery and staff @ The Greatful Pet
March 23, 2012
We'll miss you!
Love from Skinner (aka Ralphie)
Kathy Jung
March 22, 2012
Had I known the last time we were together was the last time I would see your beautiful face, I would have never left! Had I known the last time we spoke was the last time I would hear your spirited voice, I would have talked for hours! I miss my friend!! My heart will always carry a piece of your spirit! All my love to everyone Gooey touched!!
Nancy Bertrams
March 21, 2012
Goo, I will miss you dearly, our overnighters when you'd venture to Boulder City & we'd cook & stay up late hanging out. I will forever cherish my visits to Cactus Joe's to share your garden & play with all your vintage hats & clothes. My heart has a special space where you once were & will forever be until I see you again.
Renee Reade
March 21, 2012
You brought such joy and happiness to the world. The tender touch you gave to those you loved most - the helpless animals who without you would not be here. Although we met only once I had heard about you from Cliff for many years. When you came from the other side of town to help us with 18 yr old Murf I knew right away why CK always talked about you. Not only did you calm us down, but the love you showed to Murf, Sammy and PupPup was a joy to see. We do not know of anyone else who loved so deeply. You will be missed.
Lorra Hill
March 21, 2012
What a terrible loss to the world. A unique and lovely person who will be greatly missed. I'm sure you are having quite the reunion on that rainbow bridge! I'm so sorry this happened. May your spirit soar! My condolences to your family, friends and colleagues.
Starla (Stella by Starlight) has a new home in Florida. She is an amazing little dog.
Lisa Nisenson
March 21, 2012
monica hancock
March 20, 2012
Gooey, you inspired me and made me laugh. Your earthbound presence will be missed. But your light and energy carries forward. To all of your friends and family I send all the peace and happiness I can muster.
?Monica
March 20, 2012
I can only imagine the stampede of little souls who ran to greet her across the rainbow bridge. The ones who were unloved and unwanted on this earth except for the lone vet who stayed late at work to comfort the dying parvo pup or cold abandoned newborn kitten. They fully understood the meaning of that last warm touch as their soul left only to know that they would greet and welcome the kind stranger someday. She is with many of those souls now. Untraditional, unconventional and finally at peace.
Munney JohnyR
March 20, 2012
Gooey, We shared some good times, I only wish we could share some more.
Your Fun Loving Spirit is Inspirational! You will be missed & BRC wont be the same with out You!
Jan Mula
March 20, 2012
Clarissa, just knowing I won't see your wonderful face on this earth again breaks my heart but we will meet again.
March 20, 2012
Please accept my condolences and may the family of Dr. Clarissa Engstrom find comfort in the psalmists words at Psalm 29:11.
Mary Cain Rector
March 20, 2012
What an amazing woman! I'm sorry I never had the opportunity to know her. I remember her father from Brewster Hall. My deepest sympathy for the loss of your daughter, George.
March 19, 2012
CLVACO'S
Megan Phillips
March 19, 2012
Gooey-
Everytime I see a pug I remember your pug song. Everytime I get loud and excited at a cute pet, my mind trails to you screaming in exam rooms at cute animals. :) You were a mamma bear to so many of us... and a bright light in so many lives. I am truly blessed to have met you and had you as a part of my life. Oh how I wish we all could have told you how loved you were while you were still here....You had many, many friends. This world is a tad darker without you in it. Love, Love, Love you!
Dr. Cook
March 19, 2012
RIP Gooey. Your unique and creative spiritual energy will not be soon forgotten.
Tom
March 19, 2012
Gooey,
Will never forget you: From Charlottesville to Vegas, you brightened any life you touched.
March 19, 2012
Gooey was truly a unique and amazing life force; she grabbed you that first moment if you were lucky enough to meet and spend time with her. I was honored with the privilege of teaching and mentoring her at the NCSU-CVM. Diane and I have some wonderful Gooey stories and life will be less full without experiencing more of Gooey and all she had to offer. Gooey, we miss you already, you were truly unforgettable, and you will not be forgotten. Ever.
Our heartfelt condolences to Gooey's Engstrom and Cactus Joe families.
Greg Lewbart and Diane Deresienski
Phyllis
March 19, 2012
Her parents are good friends of mine, in NC. My son knew her well, and loved her for always being different.
Amy
March 19, 2012
Dr Engstrom will be greatly missed. I remember once hearing her say to someone she was addicted to helping animals; and helping animals was what she did well. Rest in peace.
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