Kimberley L. Townsend

Kimberley Townsend Obituary

TOWNSEND Kimberley L. (Dooley) Townsend, of Overland Park, Kansas, died on Saturday, April 5 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. She was 58. Kim, daughter of Jean (Hockett) Johnson and her husband, T. C., was born in Roanoke, VA, on January 10, 1950. She was raised in Kansas City, moved to New Hampshire in 1980. While in New Hampshire, she was employed by Norwood Realty and New York Times Co. before owning the Manchester Jazzercise Fitness Center from 1996–2006. She was preceded in death by her twin sister Janice L. Dooley and her father G. Reed Dooley. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her brother L. Jay Dooley and his wife Pam; niece and nephew Sarah and Morgan Dooley and their mother, Melissa all of Overland Park; and former husband, Paul Zdinak of Kennit Square, PA. She will be greatly missed by her close friends Phil & Ginny Ewald, Marsha Rogers, Pat & Jane Murphy, Larry & Clara Vandraska, Rob & Karyn Brooke and many others. A Memorial Celebration will be held at Leawood Methodist Church, 2915 W 95th St., Leawood, KS on Tuesday, April 15th at 7:00 p.m.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Kansas City Star on Apr. 13, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Kimberley Townsend

1 Entry

Jane Murphy

April 13, 2008

Here are some of the beautiful entries from Kim's CarePage set up by her friend Susanne in New Hampshire.

Jane Murphy

Karen L.
Karen Lovering April 05, 2008 at 07:48 AM EDT
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I still see you up on stage "performing" with grace and ease. You have lightened up my life!
With love...
Sherry Olson April 05, 2008 at 12:48 PM EDT
I love you, Kimmie. God bless you and keep you.

Sherry
Remembering Kim
Debbie Maguire April 05, 2008 at 01:14 PM EDT
All of us are sharing in this devastating loss. Kim was an amazing friend and inspiration.
This link below includes pictures of Kim living life to the fullest, which is how we'll remember her. Among other pictures included are pictures from her going away party as she was preparing to move back to Kansas City, a bittersweet time for us all: http://kimtownsend1968.shutterfly.com?a=1
In memory
Diane Toomey April 05, 2008 at 07:18 PM EDT
My deepest sympathy to Kim's family. She was a wonderful woman who touched so many people. We will miss her very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you now.
To Kim's Family
Jean Johnson April 05, 2008 at 08:48 PM EDT
I just learned of Kim's passing. I'm so sorry. Kim was a gracious, lovely woman, who I had the privilege of knowing when I joined her Jazzercise class in Windham. Life isn't fair--she was too young to have suffered this way. May God keep her warm in his loving embrace.
Please know that she was loved by many here in New Hampshire. I will keep you all in my prayers, as you go through this sad time.
In Sympathy
Franceen Morasse April 05, 2008 at 09:10 PM EDT
My sincere condolences to Kim's family and all of her dear friends who I am sure made her last days happy ones. She will be missed greatly. I will keep you all in prayer as you deal with the reality of life without her. XXOO Franceen
In Sympathy
Rick Kelsea April 05, 2008 at 10:44 PM EDT

We send our deepest sympathy to Kim's family and dear friends. Kim was so special and touched our lives with her grace. Our prayers are with you all.
Love Pam and Rick
In the Palm of His Hand
Ann-Marie McKenna April 06, 2008 at 07:11 AM EDT
To Kim's mom, brother, and beloved family and friends:

Please accept my most heartfelt condolences. Kim was a precious gift to all of us, and she will be sorely missed. Indeed, her graceful spirit will live on at our Manchester center. And I daresay her caring words of wisdom about all things fitness etc. will whisper upon our ears forever.

God bless you all for your great loss. We thank you for sharing Kim with us, her "other family". May she rest in peace and may God hold her forever in the Palm of His Hand.

Fondest regards, Ann-Marie
Kim with me
Paul Zdinak April 06, 2008 at 07:13 AM EDT
Kim,

I thought I felt your presence while I was raking leaves yesterday,
I though I felt you snuggled beside me last night,
I thought I felt you holding my hand in church today,
But, I know it’s been you, lifting my heavy heart by whispering in my ear… its ok honey.
Sending my love to family and friends
Liz Powers April 06, 2008 at 08:41 AM EDT
To Kim's family, I am so sorry for your lose. Kim was an amazing person and may you find comfort in the many messages of love that have been shared here.
To Kim's close friends. You wrapped your arms around her since she came back to NH with love and friendship that can not be put into words. May you all find comfort in that special relationship.
To Susanne. Thank you for allowing us to be able to express our thoughts via this care page. It has help all of the Jazzercise family get through this very difficult time. Kim was very proud of you and what you have done with the center. What a beautiful tribute that is to your dear friend.
My thoughts and prayers go with you.
Beth Parenteau April 06, 2008 at 09:35 AM EDT
To Kim's family and many friends: Please know that my prayers will be with you during your time of loss. Kim will be missed dearly.
In our hearts....
Doris Dupuis-Sgrulloni April 06, 2008 at 12:51 PM EDT
People pass on, but their memory lives on in our hearts.
Please accept our deepest and heartfelt thoughts and know that we were all blessed by Kim's friendship. She will be missed, but not forgotten.
Do & Peter Sgrulloni
Kim are Jazzercise Angel
Debbie Fox April 06, 2008 at 01:26 PM EDT
Our deepest sympathy to Kim's friends and family, including her Jazzercise family. She touched so many in various ways, and will be well missed by all. She is, I am sure, teaching Jazzercise to all the angels above while looking down making sure all of us are doing our routines correct.
To her family, our thoughts and prayers are with you, she was a strong, sensitive person and our hearts go out to you. She will always be with us in some special way which we can all treasure in our hearts.
Debbie and Maddy Fox
To Kim's family and close friends
Karen Content April 06, 2008 at 02:25 PM EDT
I am deeply sorry for the loss of our loved one. After all this time, I was very fortunate to have run into Peter last week who told me about the news. I was also very fortunate to have been able to visit Kim for a couple of days. When I heard about Kim's passing, not only did my heart hurt, but at the same time it felt a sigh of relief knowing she passed unto a better place. Kim's death was a peaceful one; God granted her peace. I pray God grants you peace in this time of sorrow as well. Karen Content
For Kim's Friends and Family
Kris Snyder April 06, 2008 at 04:30 PM EDT
"Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy." - Inspired by an Eskimo Legend -

I hope Kim's star will give you peace, strength and comfort. -

Kris
My deepest sympathy to all who loved kim
Elaine Juneau April 06, 2008 at 05:09 PM EDT
My heart goes out to all her family and friends. So saddened by Kim's passing and will miss her. I was always struck by her strength and beautiful smile.She was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Thank you susanne for keeping us informed. I know this was a very difficult time for you.

Love and peace to all
Elaine Juneau
May God Bless All
Vicki Dewey April 06, 2008 at 05:15 PM EDT
To Kim's family and friends, our deepest sympathy for your loss of an amazing person. Kim has touched so many lives in so many different ways. Always smiling, always positive and always there when you needed her. We will miss her so very much. May God give everyone she touched strength to move forward and remember the wonderful person she was. Susanne, thank you so much for this page and being able to share so much. Debbie M, thank you for sharing all the wonderful pictures of Kim, they are great memories.
Love Vicki & Amanda
Angel Kim
Jennifer Ayotte April 06, 2008 at 08:26 PM EDT
To Kim's Family and Close, Close Friends Who Have Taken Such Good Care of Her:

Sadly and somewhat ironically, I was going to write a message for Kim on Friday, but was "too busy" preparing for my son, Cameron's, first birthday party. I wanted to let Kim know what an inspiration and amazing mentor she had been to me. She had inspired me as my Jazzercise instructor, and then she saw in me the makings of an instructor and mentored me to becoming one. I will always hold a special place in my heart for Kim.

The irony is that Kim passed on Cameron's birthday, April 5. It was a glorious day of celebration for my family, and as I think about the day and the beautiful weather, I know Kim was smiling down on all of us.

May you find peace in this difficult time and remember fondly Kim's beauty, inside and out. She will be missed by many.

~Jen Ayotte
In Sympathy
Kimberly Tate-Brown April 06, 2008 at 08:56 PM EDT
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to Kim's loved ones. Though her death is so unfathomable, one thing I know for sure is that Kim will keep the angels dancing.
My deepest sympathy to Kim's family and friends
Tricia Bilodeau April 06, 2008 at 09:19 PM EDT
I was so sorry to hear of Kim's passing. I know this is a difficult time for all of you and I hope that all of your wonderful memories of Kim will help you get through this. It is truly a tribute to Kim to see all of the lives she has touched, both here in NH and elsewhere.
Susanne, JC, Debbie, Peter and all the rest of you who have held vigil at Kim's bedside the last few weeks - please realize how much of a difference you made in her care & comfort. She is at peace now and will be watching over us all.
You'll be in my thoughts & prayers, Tricia Bilodeau
My very special friend
Peter Larkham April 06, 2008 at 09:44 PM EDT
You've all been so wonderful and careing with your words, thoughts and prayers - I can't begin to find the words to thank all of you.

We(Susanne and I) have lost a very special part of our lives and wonder why we were so lucky to have her in the first place. I'm going to miss her more than you can imagine - may God keep her close and safe.

All my Love,

Peter

Reply:My thoughts and prayers are with Kim's family and friends
Joanna Bolduc April 06, 2008 at 10:27 PM EDT
I will always associate Jazzercise and Kim together. She is the reason I joined Jazzercise. She made me feel comfortable and I was always amazed by her grace and smile. I will miss her dearly.

I only just recently heard that she had fallen ill. It is still so surreal. I am so thankful that I have the image of her smiling in my head. I know she's smiling down on all of us. You will be missed, Miss Kim. You made Jazzercise what it is in Manchester today. This one's for you (XOXO)

Joanna Bolduc
My thoughts and prayers are with Kim's family and friends
Joanna Bolduc April 06, 2008 at 10:33 PM EDT
I will always associate Jazzercise and Kim together. She is the reason I joined Jazzercise. She made me feel comfortable and I was always amazed by her grace and smile. I will miss her dearly.

I only just recently heard that she had fallen ill. It is still so surreal. I am so thankful that I have the image of her smiling in my head. I know she's smiling down on all of us. You will be missed, Miss Kim. You made Jazzercise what it is in Manchester today. This one's for you (XOXO)

Joanna Bolduc
A Beautiful Flower for a Beautiful Lady
Joanna Bolduc April 07, 2008 at 06:29 AM EDT
You have always been a good friend. I will miss you dearly.

Joanna
Thinking of Everyone
Veronda Mourning April 07, 2008 at 11:51 AM EDT
I am shocked and saddened by the news of Kim's passing. I know how much Jazzercise meant to Kim and how much each and every student did as well. I feel truly blessed to have spent the time with her that I did. She is the reason I am a part of Jazzercise today. She had an incredible way of making everyone feel special and confident. She will truly be missed. Heaven has received a great angel. Thanks for everything Kim. You were simply the best.

Veronda Mourning
With Sympathy
Louise Billy April 07, 2008 at 02:53 PM EDT
My sympathy to all of Kim's relatives and friends. I worked with Kim for many years and she was an inspiration. I will miss her forever. I Love You Kim
My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends
Erin Tremblay April 07, 2008 at 03:55 PM EDT
I 'am shocked as I received the news today about Kim. I had just found out a couple of weeks ago from Susanne that she was sick. And now I hear that she has passed on. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and all of her friends. Her smiling face and bubbly personality will be missed.
With Deepest Sympathy
Michelle Merrill April 07, 2008 at 04:39 PM EDT
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of Kim's family and friends. Kim was such an inspiration to me both in Jazzercise and as a friend. I am so glad to have had Kim be a part of my life. I know that having Susanne, JC, Debbie and many others by her bedside gave her comfort until her passing. Her spirit will be amongst us all.
Your friend, Michelle
What Cancer Cannot Do
Jennifer Locke April 07, 2008 at 09:13 PM EDT
To all of Kim's dear ones,

I joined Jazzercise four years ago when Kim was the owner in Manchester. She was always so welcoming and so full of life, it is nearly impossible to come to grips with her untimely death. I read this quotation on the CarePage of another close friend of mine who is battling cancer. It provides a helpful reminder for all of us.

"What cancer cannot do:
It cannot cripple love;
It cannot shatter hope;
It cannot corrode faith;
It cannot destroy peace;
It cannot kill friendship;
It cannot silence courage;
It cannot invade the soul;
It cannot steal eternal life;
It cannot conquer the spirit."

May memories comfort those closest to Kim during this difficult time.
Love,
Jennifer Locke and family
Stay Strong
Linda L'Heureux April 07, 2008 at 11:48 PM EDT
To Kim's family and all her Jazzercise friends..Know that I am thinking of all of you as you go through this most difficult time. Cherish the memories, acknowledge the pain and stay strong. Linda L'Heureux
A Note from Kim's Hospice Nurse
Joan Simpson April 08, 2008 at 10:02 AM EDT
Hello All;

I received this lovely note today from Lisa Cassidy, the newest instructor at the Amherst Jazzercise Center. She was one of the two attending nurses on the morning when Kim died. I find that holding in my mind the picture she describes provides me with a beautiful sense of closure. I hope you feel the same. She was graceful til the end!

"Hi JC.....Just wanted to let you know that I was with your dear friend Friday overnight, and Donna, the other nurse was there too. She was comfortable and settled in the early morning hours. She was never alone, and was well cared for. I did some reiki on her and we responded to what she could tell us she needed. She was surrounded by love and left us peacefully. I'm so sorry for your loss. I wanted you to know. My thoughts and prayers remain with you in this difficult time. Much love, Lisa Cassidy."
Heaven Has a New Angel!
Missy Ruddy April 08, 2008 at 12:54 PM EDT
I haven't seen Kim since we both left Hanover St. years ago and I just recently learned she was ill, but never knew this ill. I am so saddened to learn of the huge loss this world has just endured. She was the one of the brightest rays of sunshine I ever met! An incredibly strong and wonderful woman! My biggest regret is that I was unable to get to her and give her one last hug and tell her i loved her one last time, but knowing Kim, she knew!

My sincerest thoughts and prayers to her family and friends!
She will always be remembered
Connie Shea April 08, 2008 at 07:38 PM EDT
Connie Shea
My deepest sympathy!
Gwenyth Paprocki April 08, 2008 at 08:36 PM EDT
I just found out last week that Kim was back in NH and battling cancer. My heart sank and now to know that she has passed is all too surreal! I met Kim by chance (I think I cut her in line at a store!) and when I apolgized she graciously gave me her card and invited me to Jazzercise. Because of her friendliness and charm I went and that overture changed my life. Through Jazz I knew Kim for five years. She was beautiful inside and out and I admired her wholeheartedly. Kim left the world a better place for many women and "jazzers" and my sympathy is with all of you who were closest to her. Sincerely, Gwen Paprocki
Reason, Season or Lifetime Friend
Christine Watkins April 09, 2008 at 04:20 PM EDT
As I'm sure you have all felt, I don't even know where to begin or what to say. When I think of Kim so many things come to mind. I can remember the first time Kim caught my attention with her gracefulness...Jazzercise on South Willow St standing in the front row with her animal print leotard...she was always chic! Kim was so many things to so many people. She seemed to know what each of us needed and she filled the spot within us. Kim was my mentor, my adviser, my girlfriend. I can remember her holding my precious newborn twins (focusing especially on my daughter as a future Jazzercise instructor...heehee). I'm thankful for her role in my life...whether for a reason, season or lifetime! The stage is yours, Kim. My love to you!
Gloria and Gino Baron
Gloria Baron April 10, 2008 at 08:27 AM EDT
Long before I started to go to Jazzercise, my husband Gino knew Kim and we were in shock to hear the sad news. What a great loss to hear of someone so giving and devoted to helping others. She will be missed.
Thinking of You
Kathie Beltz April 10, 2008 at 03:31 PM EDT
Kim,

We had the best of times when we were dancing. Thank you for being the best of friends. You are a treasure.
Lovingly Remembered
Lisa Smagula April 11, 2008 at 12:43 PM EDT
It seems impossible that Kim has been taken from us. My only solace is knowing that she is no longer suffering and is probably conducting a Jazzercise class to all the other angels in Heaven. Her friendship and guidance helped me become the strong woman I am today. I will remember her strength, her inspiring sense of self, her witty humor, and her love of life. I love you Kim and will keep you in my heart forever.
Lisa Smagula