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Juli Cholak Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Juli Cholak
Candace Jeffries
October 31, 2011
Juli and Blake,
Juli, you were such a beautiful person with such a beautiful heart for children and animals, and you were always for the "underdog". I saw Christ in you in so many little ways...especially the way you loved other people!! I am blessed to have known you!!
Blake, your mom loved you sooooooooooo much. You were her life!! She wanted you to grow into a man who loves Jesus and treats others the way He did. You were her bright and shining star. No matter what mood she was in, when you would walk in the room, her face would light up. God has a purpose for your life. He even has a purpose in taking your mama home at such a young age. Keep looking to Him and He will show you what you were created for. I love you so much and you are an amazing young man!!
October 30, 2011
Juli, we remember when you were born and watched you grow up into a beautiful, caring young lady. We are so sorry that you were called to heaven way too soon. God only knows why. Sincerely, Harold & Kathy Albin
Nina Bloecher
October 27, 2011
Hello to All,
I have so many wonderful memories of Juli and Blake, especially at Sandi and John's house. She had a love for Blake that was always shining in her eyes. I enjoyed seeing them work on projects together. Blake is much like his beautiful, giving Mother. One day he gave me 2 dinosaur tears, I still have them on the window sill in my kitchen. Thanks Blaker!
Love and blessings to all of you!
Nina
This is my favorite picture of you and Blake
Jerri Skinner
October 27, 2011
Juli,
I have loved you since you were born. You were my baby. Candice is pregnant now and what a fun great aunt you would have been. We had her baby shower and I so wished you could have been there. My heart is still sad because you are not here with us. I tell myself, it's been 2 years, get over it, but I don't think I ever will. But sometimes I laugh when I think of the crazy things you used to do. Blake is such a wonderful young man. He reminds me so much of you and I know why he is so kind, because you were. You live on in him. I'll see you again some day in heaven and I'll never have to cry again. Love you baby.
Beginning of school in Fall of 2009
Karen Franklin
October 27, 2011
Juli,
We love you and miss you and you're in all our thoughts EVERY day. Ju Ju, Curtis's cat, given to Sandi and John is lively,lovable, and fun just like you were. I'm thankful for all the memories we can share of times all during your years with us. You raised Blake so wonderfully and he often has mannerisms and a smile just like you.
We will see you again one day in the sweet by and by. Aunt Karen
Judy Tewksbury Steadman
October 27, 2011
What a precious promise to know Juli has already had one year with our Lord! One of the gifts God gives us in children is that we live on through them. We know Blake has that sweet spirit of Juli's and you get to enjoy her each time you're with him. God bless you always! Hugs to all!
Sandi Jeffries
September 12, 2011
Juli - I celebrated another birthday without you today. I know you and Jesus were watching me and made it a wonderful day. As the tears roll down my cheeks I have so many wonderful memories of times with you and watching you. You were my first born and that first precious baby. I will NEVER forget the thrill of it all. Thank you for blessing my life with your sweet, gentle spirit. Blake is so much like you!
Sandi Jeffries
November 10, 2010
Dear friends and family,
Someone yesterday ask permission to copy and share my poem "The Broken Chain". I must say, I DID NOT WRITE IT. I saw the entire poem on the Legacy.com web page offered for sale on a throw. I then realized where the engraved stone phrase came from. I did not put my name on it but I am sorry I did not give credit when I shared it!
Kathleen Albin
November 8, 2010
DO NOT STAND AT MY GRAVE & WEEP
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you awake in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
Ruth Light
November 7, 2010
Sandi and John,
As I look at the pictures you shared on this site, I thought, you will always have Juli in Blake's smile. She had a beautiful smile.
My thoughts and prayers have been with you this week. I know it has been difficult.
God bless you,
November 7, 2010
THE BROKEN CHAIN
We little knew that morning that
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly
in death we do the same.
You did not go alone;
for part of us went with you,
the day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
your love is still our guide,
and although we cannot see you,
you are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken
and nothing seems the same,
but as God calls us one by one,
the chain will link again.
(Nephew Derrick's boss had a
stone with the last four lines
of this engraved on it when they
returned home from your funeral)
Niece, Candace, and Chris on their wedding day. Blake was the ring bearer. Mom was so proud of her "little man".
November 7, 2010
Juli especially love Blakes and his cousins. She always spent time with them and they had LOTS of fun together.
November 6, 2010
Juli was the medical clinic focus person for HOPE Network 2010. Blake, Dad and Mom were very proud of the clinic and Juli
November 6, 2010
Grandpa and Juli's oldest nephew, Derrick
November 6, 2010
Jana and Dad at Keith's in Memphis. People always thought Juli and Jana wer "look alike sisters"
November 6, 2010
Mom and Blake having lunch with Queen Lisa right before she knighted him for bravery in a very difficult period of his life
November 6, 2010
Blake and Mom on her birthday celebrating at Renaissance Festival
November 6, 2010
Juli on her way to enroll in Master's program in Social Work
November 6, 2010
Moo Moo and Blaker
November 6, 2010
Juli and Mom
November 6, 2010
Mom and Blake after a dance at Candice's wedding
November 6, 2010
Jerri, Juli and John at Candice's wedding
November 6, 2010
Blake and Mom on Mother's Day
November 6, 2010
Juli Jeffries Cholak
November 5, 2010
Karen Franklin
November 5, 2010
We will always cherish all the wonderful family memories we have of you,Juli, and with Blake,your son, your brother and sisters, parents,and grandparents.
You will be forever missed by your aunt and all of your cousins in the Franklin Family.
Karen Franklin
November 4, 2010
Juli, it has been a year now since you left us so suddenly when we all thought you were doing so well and getting over the flu during that weekend. Remember how the sun was shining and it was such a pleasant day outside on Sunday. We all
stayed in the front room and visited together and had a wonderful time with you on the couch resting and Curtis sitting at the end of the couch with goodies he had brought you. Your Mom and I were playing a game together while we all visited, your Dad was sitting in another chair and we even had Halloween cupcakes and cider. We laughed and laughed and enjoyed the warmth of the living room when we could have been outside but chose to keep you company while you recuperated on the couch, a little weak but you were smiling and happy to be upstairs with all of us. Little did we know things would change so suddenly and it would be the last time we were all together in that room, but I hear God has a mansion with many rooms, beautiful flowing gowns in wonderful bright colors (even PINK)for all the ladies to wear and such music resounding through the air of the most ageless classical nature. I know everyone is laughing there and everyone knows each other. I know this, you see, because it came in a dream to me once several years ago and I saw some who had passed before me. I know you are in the loving palm of His Hand and all who know you three are watching over you and taking care of you. Come visit us anytime; I know you have already and know that we are all taking care of one another.
Love you Sweetheart,
Your Aunt Karen (we had soooooo so much in common.) I miss you so much!
November 4, 2010
Juli, It has been a whole year now since you left us. Last night at the Celebration of your life we all were together. I know you saw your family and friends together and loving you in our hearts. We met at the 40 Highway Fun House Pizza close to where you grew up. Dad and I had as our guests: John, Candace, Garrett, Grace and Grant; Blake, Anthony, Carrie, Chloe, and Cannon; Jerri, Dave, Candice, and Chris; Amanda, John and their 2 daughters; Curtis and Aunt Karen. I know you saw all the children playing and all the adults in fellowship together. The one missing was YOU! This is the family you always wanted for you and now those who lacked have stepped up to the plate and become what you wanted them to be. Blake and his family now stopped by the cemetery and he had sad moments. We will never forget you or stop loving and missing you. We know you are where we want to be. We will join you at God's appointed time. WE LOVE YOU SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH!
Sandi Jeffries
September 20, 2010
Juli, Your Mother misses you so much. My Birthday this year was such a sad time for me. I love you with all my heart and can't wait to see you again. I am left here to love your son and other family members who are hurting also. What a wonderful day it was on October 8, 1971 when God Blessed us with you!
Curtis Campbell
February 13, 2010
A Letter To God’s Newest Angel
Juli, anyone who knew you knew you were the kindest, most nonjudgmental, caring, and forgiving person anyone could hope to know and love. They would know that you were a mother to Blake first, and devoted to teaching other people’s children with the passion and patience reserved for the Saints. They would know you were selflessness and a friend to anyone in need. They would certainly know you were a precious gentle flower, whose relief was always just out of reach in a searing desert of pain. They would know you made me laugh, and the world is a darker place without your smile, but heaven is brightly lit tonight.
You are the angel that that only God could have sent into our lives. You taught and encouraged me to walk and talk with the Lord in good times and bad ones too. It is through your teaching me to pray and how to accept Jesus that I too may enter heaven someday, and I owe you eternal gratitude for that awakening.
I am thankful that you shared as much of your life as you did with me, and only my new found trust in God’s Will that I am able to bear the loss of such a precious precious, friend as you…. Farewell Angel till we all meet again. curtis
Shannon Curtis
November 13, 2009
Juli,
I know we hadn't talked in quite a while but I have thought of you over the months to see what you and your wonderful son have been doing lately. I'm going to miss you so much and so will Bob and Danny. We love you girl and will always be in our hearts,thoughts, and prayers. Atleast you had a strong faith and that will help you become the angel I know you are and you will look over everyone especially your precious son, Blake. I'm still in shock, but we loved you and if there is anything I can do for Blake have your parents let me know. I love you girl.
Van Egbert
November 12, 2009
John and Sandi: I am sadden to hear of the loss of your daughter. Even though I did not know her personally, I am sure she was an outstanding young lady. God Bless you and your family.
Terry and Janice Bartlow
November 10, 2009
John and Sandy, Janice and I are so saddened by the loss of your dear and sweet daughter, Juli.
You both have our deepest sympathies and our hope that you again will find some happiness in your lives.
Kim Magana
November 8, 2009
Juli is a beautiful soul that everyone recognizes as someone special. Her optimistic personality has always been above the norm. Her devoted love for her son Blake was unmistakable and undeniably incomparable.
Her trusting and kind spirit will be greatly missed by all that knew her. Our tears for her will be/and are shed for the loss everyone that loves her is suffering at this difficult time.
Juli, remembering the memories from the past, that you were part of, will bring us strength and happiness in the future.
You are much loved and greatly missed!
-Cousins, Marty and Kim Magana
Debbie Rinehart
November 7, 2009
As Blake's teacher, Juli and I spoke on the phone and exchanged emails frequently. In spite of the distance between Raytown and Excelsior Springs, she wanted to be involved in Blake's education. Juli made it clear that if the class needed anything, she would provide it. She brought in bottles of hand sanitizer to help keep the kids healthy. She was the only parent willing to coordinate our classroom parties for the year. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend even the first one because of her illness. Her mother, Sandi, came in her place. That's when I learned that Juli and I had an even deeper connection than Blake. You see, Sandi had been MY teacher when I attended Raytown schools many years ago. What a small world we live in! I could tell from the start that Julie was a devoted and adoring mother to Blake. I'm sure it was because of the fine example that had been set for her by her own mother. I feel privileged to now have Blake in my charge, for he, too, is a kind, gentle soul. Juli lives on through him. Peace be with you.
Jerri Skinner
November 7, 2009
Juli, I can't stop thinking about you. I should have told you more often how much you meant to me and how much I loved you. My heart hurts. I tried to make you well and I couldn't. You are well now but I miss you so much. Our family will never be the same without you. We will remember you and cherish the short years we had with you. I will see you soon sweetie. If I didn't believe that, I would not be able to go on. Like you used to tell me, I love you so so so so so much, your sister Jerri
Sean'a Handy (Banks)
November 6, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Juli's passing. We went to school from elementary to high school. I remember her warm smile that would light up a room when she would walk in. You and your family will be in my prayers as you go through this time of mourning.
God Bless you and your family.
Amy Lowe-Smith
November 6, 2009
Juli was the first friend I ever had and she was the sister I never had. Saying goodbye today was hard but I know I will see her again some day and she will be healed. I will always love her!
Barbara Pilant (Sence)
November 6, 2009
I went to middle and high school with Juli. She always had a smile on her face in the halls. She will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Juli's family.
Aaron Phillips
November 6, 2009
I grew up with Juli and we not only went to First Baptist Church of Raytown together growing up, but attended the same Middle School and High School. I never knew anyone that didn’t have a nice or kind word to say about her. The person I knew from church on Sunday was no different than the loving, kind person I would see at school during the week. She was truly a good person inside and out no matter where she was or who she was with. She will be missed. My heart and prayers go out to her and her entire family. God Bless!
November 6, 2009
Blake, your mom loved you with her WHOLE heart while she was here, and now she continues to love you from her new home in heaven. She still loves you and will find ways to let you know. I am praying for you. Miss Lisa
November 5, 2009
I was so sorry to here about the passing of Juli. Juli and I taught together, and I know the love that she felt for her family. Blake was her life. I remember Blake visiting our school when he was two, and he marched up and down the halls with the flag. I regret having lost contact with her about a year ago. I will pray for your family.
Susan Keefe
Jim and Ruth Light
November 5, 2009
Dear John and Sandi,
Jim and I are shocked and sadden by the sudden death of Juli. What a treasure she was to you, Blake and your family. There are many people whose lives she touched that will miss her. Sandi, I read your poem you put on this site. What a power testament of your faith. Truly, our faith in our Lord Jesus is all that can get us through times like these. We have been praying for you since we got the news. We will continue to pray for you in the days, weeks, and months ahead as you walk through this difficult time in your lives.
Our love,
Jim and Ruth Light
November 5, 2009
I only had the opportunity to meet Juli on one occasion and our conversation centered totally on our children. She shared numerous photos from her billfold of her son, Blake, and I could tell what a devoted and loving mother she was. This is how I choose to remember her and feel that it would have made her very proud.
Karen Campbell Strong (St. Joseph)
November 5, 2009
John and Sandi,
I am so sorry about Juli...not too many months ago I saw her at FBC and she gave me a big hug and told me she had something to tell me. I asked her what and she said. "I never told you but you were my favorite choir teacher." What wonderful words to hear from a former 3rd grade choir kid.
God Bless You both and your entire family. I know it is difficult and you will all miss her so much. What a joy to know she is wating for all you to join her one day in heaven.
Joy Herman
Lane and Jo Anne Minear
November 5, 2009
John, Sandi, and family
We are so sorry and saddened to hear of Juli's passing. I can't even imagine your pain. May God hold you in His loving arms! Our prayers are with each of you.
RITA MWANGONG
November 5, 2009
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES FROM ME TO YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH JULI TO WATCH HER PLEASANT TRANSFORMATION. GOD NEED TO TAKE JULI TO HELP WITH PREPARING A PLACE FOR HER FAMILY AND LOVED ONES. IT WAS AN HONOR AND PRIVILEDGE TO HAVE WORKED WITH JULI AND GOT TO MEET HER PARENTS AND ADORABLE SON BLAKE. I WILL KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN MY PRAYERS. SWEET DREAMS JULI
John Tarpley
November 5, 2009
I'm thinking of all of you and praying for God's strength and healing in the near future for those touched by Juli and her amazing spirit. Many of my fondest childhood memories include running around with Juli in elementary and middle school all the while, hoping Coach wouldn't mind. We will see her again in paradise. May the Lord bless us and keep us until then.
RITA MWANGONG
November 5, 2009
I would like to send my deepest condolences to the entire family. I worked with Juli and she was an inspiration to how she endured and overcame by going back to school. My heart felt sympathies to a woman the Lord almighty knew she would be ready to help him prepare a place for all of her loved ones.
RITA MWANGONG
Ron Clark
November 5, 2009
Coach & Mrs Jeffries,
It was so sad to hear the news about Juli. I got to know her as a teenager as she and my daughter Jennifer were good friends since middle school. I got to know you when you coached my son Chris in basketball. I can't imagine how it must feel to lose a child. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Kathryn "Katy" Ballard Shut
November 5, 2009
Please accept our deepest condolences, from me and my entire family in Denver. We are so grateful to Amy Frost for letting us know of this sad time on Facebook.
Juli was so kind, sweet, and loving to everyone that she ever met, and that's how we will always remember her. My mother, Sharyn, remembers Juli from when we would play together as elementary school children, so many years later.
Our thoughts, prayers, sympathy, and support go out to the Jeffries and Cholak families on this sudden and shocking loss. Juli will certainly be missed!
Kathryn Ballard Shut /shoot/
Denver, CO
[email protected]
Scott Stringer
November 5, 2009
Coach, Sandi and family, my heart goes out to you today. Juli was a great girl and always a bright spot in the day for a lot of us that had the pleasure of sharing the halls of Raytown High with her. I can see that big grin and happy face to this day. God bless you all.
November 5, 2009
My husband and I went to school with Juli and John. Our hears are full of sadness for your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Anita and Jeremy Buchanan
November 5, 2009
Dear Sandi and John- Carolyn Black sent me the email about your daughter Juli. I am shocked and saddened by the news. I am in Canada spending 2 weeks with my daughter, so I won't be able to attend the funeral services. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. May the peace of God be with you-peace that passeth all understanding!! Love in Christ, Suzanne Kneebone
Ruthie Myers
November 5, 2009
Sandi,
Know that my heart goes out to you and John and your precious grandson, Blake. You are one of the sweetest people I know and your love for Christ is evident to everyone. Rest in God's perfect peace.
Melody Shanks
November 5, 2009
I was there when Juli and Anthony were married. She was there and helped with my first wedding. I was there when Blake was new to the world and carried a flag everywhere he went. I was there for finger toe paintings, nights out at the movies, a night her, Kharma and I thought we would get tattoo's and didn't. Juli was going to get one of a flag because it reminded her of Blake. I was there during her divorce and she was there during mine. Her and Blake lived with me for a short while and I loved it. She drove me nuts with her endless need to recycle everything I tried to throw away, but I loved having her and Blake around. She loved her family and spoke of them often in such loving and meaningful words. The love she showed to Blake was so genuine and real it tears me up now just thinking about it. I was there for many good parts in Juli's life. I have regrets that I lost touch with her over the last year or so. The one time I wasn't there and wished now more than ever that I was. She was always on my mind and heart and I wish now I would have told her that. She was a beautiful person inside and out. An infectious laugh and a beautiful smile. I will hold close to me the good times and keep her living on. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. I can't imagine how you must feel. Just know that many are out there thinking of you now and wishing the clocks could me turned back and she was still here with us.
Katherine Schwenk-Runels
November 5, 2009
I worked with Julie back in high school for a number of years and we spent a lot of time together not just as co-workers but as friends - going to football games, sleepovers, etc. We lost touch during our college years but we reconnected briefly about three years ago and exchanged Christmas cards and I saw her beautiful son Blake and that smile of Juli's that just radiated everywhere. That smile is forever etched in my mind. She was a caring wonderful person and my heart goes out to you all.
Adult Ministries Team Pleasant Valley Baptist Church
November 5, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Know that we are holding your family up in our prayers, praying for comfort and strength through this very difficult time.
November 5, 2009
Our condolences to the entire family. May your sweet memories sustain you through this very difficult time. Chuck and Marlys Boughner
Stacy Parsons (Slead)
November 5, 2009
Sandy, John and Family,
I have so many wonderful memories of Juli - from bike riding to McDonalds to watching Friday Fright night and scaring each other. I will always remember Juli smiling and laughing in the kitchen while eating pickled okra (furry pickles we used to say). I will pray for strength for you and your family and may God comfort you in this sad time. We will all be together again one day and until then we can hold her in our cherished memories. My love and prayers for you all.
November 5, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. My family lived up the street from Juli and my brother and sister graduated with her. She was always so encouraging. We will be praying for the comfort and peace of God to rest on your family.
Angie "Delarber" Sartain
Janet Longwell
November 5, 2009
Sandi & John, I am so sorry for your loss. I can still picture her sweet face. How sad for her son. God be with you all.
Sandi Jeffries
November 5, 2009
The words in this poem God sent to me a while back to share with others who have lost loved ones. Now I see how it relates to ME as Juli's Mother.
I have FELT God was sufficient for anything, I BELIEVED He was sufficient, and now I KNOW He is!
BECAUSE HE LIVES I CAN FACE TOMORROW!
CONTRASTS
They feel only joy;
We have the sorrow.
They see eternity;
We look to tomorrow.
They are with Jesus;
That's worth so much.
We are here missing
Their sweet, soft touch.
They see only light;
We sense the dark.
They soar with angels;
We miss the mark.
God says to rejoice.
Your loved one is free!
I realize now -
I was thinking of ME!
Sandi Jeffries
Chrissy Minks-Danforth
November 5, 2009
John, I am so sorry to hear about Juli, you will be in the thoughts and prayers of my family. Juli was my oldest son's 5th grade teacher at Ott. Justin was very sad when I told him. He said, "Ms. Cholak was awesome mom". She was a wonderful, sweet, caring and loving person.
Julie Watts
November 5, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss~ Juli was such a sweet lady. I got to know her thru the clinic here in Raytown, and saw her at times at Church.
God bless you all~
November 5, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless- Trish Richardson
November 5, 2009
My husband and I went to middle school and high school with Juli. She was such a sweet spirit with the warmest smile in the world. The news of her passing breaks our hearts. Her family and friends are in our prayers.
Stacey and Mark Sprenz
November 5, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know there is nothing anyone can say that will make the hurt go away but maybe knowing others are thinking and praying for you will help.
Marjorie Garland
Janet Lowe
November 5, 2009
Juli was a very loving and gentle gift from God. She is walking on streets of gold today. We know she went from this life into the arms of Jesus. May your faith, family and friends carry you through this time of grief.
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