Kapra Merideth Quain

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Quain, please accept my sympathy. I'm sorry for the delay in this expression but I found out only today as I placed wreaths at Ft. Snelling. My experience with Kapra was during your brief stay in Big Lake, she, a toddler and I a babysitter. As I read of her life I could only imagine your pride. She sounds so accomplished and delightful. May this season of faith reinforce your love. My sincere sympathy. Merideth Olson-Paulson

I just yesterday heard the terrible news, and was so sorry to hear about Kapra's passing. I wish to offer my condolences to her family and loved ones.

Kapra and I ran with the same circle of friends in high school, though I was a year younger than her. She was always hilarious, vibrant, and a good friend. Through reading this guestbook and its reminiscences, it seems that Kapra's life after high school was full of joy and accomplishments; I'm so sorry that we didn't stay in touch.

I'm saddened to hear about Kapra's passing, but hope that these guestbook posts show how much Kapra's life impacted people far and wide.

I have just learned of Kapra's untimely passing and have received the news with shock and sadness. She was a great friend and mentor to those in the classes below her in high school band. I had the privilege of knowing her through both high school and at Miami and remember well her smile, quick wit and grace under pressure. So many memories are coming back to me across the years of times spent on road trips and in various locations around BG. It is heartening to me to read through all of the previous entries to see all of the lives she touched and wonderful things that she did in her life, and that will be her legacy. My thoughts will be with Mr. and Mrs. Quain, Kelly, and with the rest of the family. She was a beautiful and wonderful person, and we will miss her and remember her fondly.

I have only just heard the sad news about Kapra's passing. I had the pleasure of serving with her at the 10th Mountain Division. She was a remarkable musician and human being, and I know she will truly be missed. This was an incredibly untimely and unfortunate incident, but I hope she is in a much better place.

My son and I have so many, many fond memories of Kap and "Sidney Queen." They were a very big part of our family after my husband past away. She was a true friend and will always remain in my heart and thoughts. Di and Rob

I was so stunned to learn about Kapra's sudden and untimely death. I knew Kapra from my music years at Miami. She was always the one who cut to the truth with her incredible sense of humor. She was hilarious, kind and smart and always brought laughter with her wherever she went. There was never a dull moment when she was around. My deepest condolences go to Richard and Mary and Kap's entire family for this unimaginable loss.

All my favorite Kap memories involve a car. Offering to drive her to school, she politely declined and said she had the keys to the family car. What she didn't have, of course, was a license. Driving to see Kap perform in college and visiting her in Cinci, being so proud of her accomplishments. But, most of all, our legendary road trip to Minneapolis with a very insecure puppy. We never ran out of things to talk and laugh about. Of all her many virtues, my favorites were honesty, humor and the ease in which she settled into what was always a refreshingly wonderful dialogue of life.

I'm so deeply sorry to hear about Kappy. I went to HS with her and remember her as being quick to laugh and passionate about music. I'm praying for the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with her family and friends.

We only knew Kapra for a short time as a neighbor and new friend. We live at Rivercrest, and did get to enjoy an evening with Kapra reading poetry, with other friends. We also chatted when we met Kapra walking her dogs. It was heartbreaking news to hear of her passing, and wish we would have been able to spend more time getting to know Kapra. She was a lovely, sincere young woman, and should have lived many more years. We send our heartfelt wishes to her family.

I was blessed to have her as an instructor at the school of music and even more blessed to have her personal support while there. She will be missed by many.

I was very fortunate to have had Kapra as an instructor at the Armed Forces School of Music. She was a terrific instructor and a person with a contagious positive attitude. To her family and close friends, I am so very sorry to learn of your loss. She will be deeply missed by many.

My husband and I met Kapra while serving in 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, NY. She was such an awesome musician and a wonderful friend to so many. Her sense of humor was so very special and she will be deeply missed. We hope she is looking down upon us with a huge smile knowing she touched our lives in a unique way.
Our prayers go out to her family and we wish God's comfort and grace upon them.

I had the honor of serving with Kapra in the 10th Mountain Div. band in Ft. Drum, NY. Prior to that, we had been at the School of Music in Virginia together. We had many a laugh and cry together and she saw me through, well, alot. She was one of the smartest and most musically talented people I knew. She will definitely be missed. My prayers go out to her family and friends. May God's peace be abundant to them all!

My husband Robert had the pleasure of working with Kapra while stationed at Fort Drum. I always remember that Kapra made me feel welcome when I "sat in" with the 10th Mountain Division Band and I was fortunate to have experienced her love of music first hand. Our condolences and prayers go out to her family.

God has granted you peace from your tribulations, Kapra, and added another beautiful voice to his choir.

Dear Ricky,

I know I haven't seen you since you were 15 and came to NJ with your Dad, but I was very saddened to hear of the loss of your daughter. She sounds like she was a very bright and talented woman, with a wonderful career and fulfilling life. Her picture showed a woman very full of life and I'll bet she was fun to be around. I am so very sorry for you and your wife and son. My husband and I will keep you in my prayers.

Pat Quain Kane (Al's daughter)
[email protected]

I'm so blessed to have known Kapra as well as I did and truly grateful I was able to make it to her funeral, which was an absolute perfect tribute to her extraordinary life. My love, thoughts, and prayers are with the entire Quain family always.

Hi again,
Sorry for duplicate entry, but I was reading and I thought that this was an incredible testament to Kapra. This is from "Song of Myself" by Walt Whitman:

I depart as air, I shake my white locks at the runaway sun,
I effuse my flesh in eddies, and drift it in lacy jags.

I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love,
If you want me again look for me under your boot-soles.

You will hardly know who I am or what I mean,
But I shall be good health to you nevertheless,
And filter and fibre your blood.

Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged,
Missing me one place search another,
I stop somewhere waiting for you.

Words cannot express my sorrow after hearing about Kapra's passing. We shared so much of our interest in music and is still one of the few people who inspires me to play. Take care Kapra - I'll never forget you. Mark

I am so sorry to learn about Kapra. She will always be remembered for her laugh, smile and music. I enjoyed being friends and classmates during HS. She accomplished so much in her life and will be tenderly remembered by many.

I just read of Kapra's passing and I am deelply saddened. Kapra was a very fun loving individual. I will always remember our times together at Miami as well as the years that followed. My deepest sympathies to the entire Quain family and all of Kapra's friends.

I was fortunate enough to have known Kapra the last several years. We served together in the 10th Mountain Division Band at Fort Drum, NY. She was a great musician, a great soldier, and most of all she was a great human being. She truly touched all those who knew her, and her loss is truly devastating. Kapra, we miss you already.

I've been out of town the last week and my mother informed me of Kappy's passing this morning. I was shocked and saddened to hear the news to say the least. Kappy and I were friends in JH an HS at BG and we shared many good times and laughs. At this moment I celebrate her life as I reflect on those times we spent together and by reading all the guest entries. I smile when I see the vast number of people she touched and a brief vignette of how she touched them during her 38 years here on earth. I am glad to say that I am one of these persons. This is the beginning of her new life and we find comfort in knowing that this separation is only temporary as one day we will be reunited with her in a glorious celebration with Christ when we pass from this life to the next. I lift up Kappy in my prayers along with prayers of comfort for you Kelly, Mary and Rick.

I served with Kapra at Ft. Drum for a short time. I remember her as being musically talented and having a phenomenal sense of humor. I'm happy to see that many others saw these qualities in her as well. My heart goes out to her family.

Kapra, dear heart, there was more of you to love than you may have ever realized. You and I had some epic battles in the 10th Mtn. Div. Band at Fort Drum, NY. At times you made me want to scream, as I made you want to do the same, which we wound up doing to each other fairly often. And yet I never stopped caring about you. There is a lot of you in all of us, so much so that I always seeked your approval in everything I did around you. I hope you are at peace and happy wherever you are now.
God bless you, Kapra.

Anyone who had the privilige of knowing Kapra enjoyed a much richer life for having known her.

All of us from the 451st Army Band who knew her are feeling a great loss, but comfort in the fact that we are better off for having been graced by her talent and friendship.

Our sincere condolences to you.

Michael Kaye and Lorelei Giddings

I have only just heard about Kapra's passing, and to say that I am shocked and saddened doesn't begin to express what I feel.

Kapra and I were both horn students in the same year at Miami University and, as we were frequently paired with each other, learned to play in a horn section together with each other's help. We were also good friends and shared many laughs, including the infamous "high five" in the middle of wind ensemble rehearsal one day. We wrote to each other now and then in the years since college, and I really enjoyed seeing her at the wind ensemble reunion about ten years back.

My deepest condolences to her family. Kapra was warm, smart, and had a sense humor potent enough to keep the whole music department grinning during our years at Miami.

I'll never forget you, Kapra.

To the Quain family; my family offers our condolences to your entire family. Kapra was a great friend and brass mentor back in the day. From the time we were stand partners I will never forget some of the great times we spent together. The last time I saw her was in a blues club in Chicago 12 years ago, I was on my honeymoon and we ran into eachother unexpectedly. I had lost touch with her until last year when Alex DePue had gotten a hold of her. She and I spoke then and emailed back and forth lately. The last email I got from her (6.19.08) totally made my day. I laughed so hard that I cried. The photo I attached is from the BGJHS yearbook in 1985, her freshman year.

Dear Mary,

Hi, it's Maureen from Rivercrest. As you probably know, I left Rivercrest in January. I was just told yesterday about Kapra's passing. I feel blessed to have known her and "the girls" for as long as I did. I hope her last days in New York were happy ones. I greatly admired the wonderful bond the two of you had. If only every daughter had such a loving, supportive mother. I hope your bond, Kapra's vibrance, wit and enduring love will carry you throughout these dark days. May her smile light your way.

I don't know where "the girls" are (the last I heard they were in a shelter) but if I can help them (I volunteered at the local SPCA for 4 years and have 2 dogs of my own), please let me know.

With wishes for much love and peace,

Maureen Murphy
845/473-9824
[email protected]

Mary and the extended Quain, Briggs, Jensen families. I extend my sympathy to all of you in the death of Kapra. I didn't know Kapra very well, but after reading the messages left for you, I wish that I would have been able to get to know her better.

Mary and I used to play together in Fairmont when our parents, Everett and Tillie Peterson and Skip and Kathryn Briggs would get together for a Sunday dinner. Everett Peterson was Kathryn Jensen Briggs uncle.

I can not image the pain of losing a child. My love goes out to all of you.

Kapra bounded into our lives at the 451st (Fort Snelling, MN) and immediately embraced us as friends. What a privilege to know her friendship! What sadness fills my heart, missing her. An encounter with Kapra was an ignited spark, a sure fire of passion in everything she undertook. Even the ordinary took flame with her spirit. We were ignited in our shared love for music, of course, but many in the 451st will never forget, nor ever see again a more hillarious, brilliant wit as when she led training on something which couldn't be less musical: laying a claymore mine. (Some things are just hard to understand, Little Buck.)
Kapra told me in a visit a few years ago that she had chosen to follow Jesus Christ. What a friend! so...
"When the saints go marching in..., How I want to be in that number,
And Kapra will be leading the band!"

My heart goes out to the Quain family. We went to Miami Univerisity together and the music department wasn't the same when Kapra went to BG. I never remember seeing Kapra without a smile on her face. Her mission in life was to make people laugh and smile. She was so warm and sweet and will be missed.

Kelly, our thoughts are with you and your family.

Kapra's an amazing friend who's memory can not be washed away by time, distance, or even passing. She will always remain a part of my life. God bless everyone mourning her loss and may you find peace through her strength.

Rick, Mary, and Kelly,
My parents just told me about Kapra today. I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of babysitting for her and Kelly-she was always fun to be around. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kapra Quain was my instructor and mentor at the Army School of Music. Besides being an outstanding Horn Player, I will always remember her as a caring person that always wanted and expected the best from everyone. During my time as a basic student, she impacted me more than all of my other instructors combined-- a direct result of how much she cared about us. I already miss you, SSQ. I hope to see you again someday.

I am so sorry to hear of Kapra's passing. (And sorry to be so delayed, as I am currently on vacation and just had a chance to check my email.) I was Kapra's "potluck" roomie at Miami University. She was a wonderful, zany, sweet, talented, good soul.
I will greatly miss her!
Sincerely,
Laura (the Hillbilly)

Kapra and I served together both at FT Drum and Afghanistan. Under odd circumstances we became great friends. We were assigned to the rear D command which proved to be no easy task. She was a wonderful, smart and witty person who had a lot of compassion for those around her. I remember one day Kapra thanked me for being there for her but, it was her who was there for me. Did I mention she was modest too? It was a privilege to have worked with her but it was an honor to have been her friend. I will treasure all the memories we shared. May you rest in peace Kapra!! Love, Nora

I was shocked to hear of Kapra's death. We were music majors together at Miami and my memories of Kapra are fond, filled with laughter and joy. No matter what was going on, Kapra was always able to make us smile. At the same time, she was a dedicated, devoted musician, always honing her skills. My deepest condolences to the entire family.

"Some people come into our lives and leave footprints in our hears, and we are never, ever the same."

Mary, Rick, and Kelly-- Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your precious Kapra. We will keep your dear family in our thoughts and prayers.

July 2, 2008

The news of Kapra's passing has just reached me. She and I began at Miami University at the same time, she as a student and me as a first-time university professor. I remember Kapra's constant smile, ebullient personality, and sharp wit. As a young college student, she had great insight into many people and situations; she could find the humor in almost any situation! As many others have written, I can attest that this shining young woman touched many, many lives.

To the Quain Family & Friends:
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. I was in marching band with Kapra at Miami University. Unfortunately, I did not know her very well. Based on the comments,I can tell that she was a a very special person! She definitely died too young. May she rest in peace.....

I was in the band with Kapra at Miami University, but really got to know her well on a road trip to Key West over Spring Break our Senior year. Although we lost touch after college, I still remember her laugh and humor like it was yesterday.

Reading other entries has made me realize how this outstanding young woman I knew in college turned into such a positive influence and role model for others. She has touched so many lives in her short 38 years.

I am glad to have gotten the chance to know her...she will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies to her family.

Dick and Mary, Byron and I offer our deepest sympathy. Kapra was the flower girl in our wedding. It will be 33 years this August. Remember that hot day in Windom MN in 1975? May the God of all comfort bless and keep you in the days to come. May you find solace and peace as you look to the Almighty Father and allow him to hold you in his arms.

I had the priviledge of serving with Kapra during my tenure as Commandant, Army School of Music. She was a rare talent with an absolutely engaging personality. The Army Bands program has lost much in her passing - she will be truly missed!!

I wish I had the words to express how important Kapra is to all of us in military music. She always shared her knowledge - which was abundant - and never let the opportunity pass by to share a laugh. I spent many hours sitting beside her desk talking about music and conducting. I am a better person because she gave me her time. Simply, I am so deeply saddened by this news. I see many colleagues who have posted to this guestbook and I am thankful for each of you. We are all praying for Kapra.

Kapra, you are the best friend that a person could ever have. You championed me through so much, and always took such pride and joy in the accomplishments of those you loved. The memories I have of us as students at the school of music, and later as soldiers at Ft Drum, are the best that I carry in my heart. You made me a better person, from having known you, and life has lost some of its luster now that you are gone. Your sense of humour and zest for life made me feel, on numerous occasions, that something new and exciting was just around the corner. Thank you for your kindness and fierce loyalty. I hope that you are someplace where the band is always fresh and eager, and the "test kitchen" is waiting for your culinary experiments! I love you Meiha

I am so very sorry to hear about Kapra’s death. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. Kapra and I were friends at Miami and shared an apartment while we were student teaching. All of my fondest memories of Miami have Kapra in them, from band, to classes, the rude bus, the camp-out, and watching Browns games in her and John’s apartment our (first) senior year. I was lucky to have had her in my life.

I served with Kapra for several years at Ft. Drum. She made me a better horn player and a better musician overall. It was quite a shock to hear of her passing. She will be missed. I pray that her family will find the peace of Jehovah Shalom

Kapra was an amazingly sweet, sensitive, and talented woman. Although I haven't heard from her since college, my memories of her are strong. I have been reading the other Guest Book entries with a smile. Having a such an amazingly positive impact on others' lives as Kapra did is a testament to her and her memory. My heartfelt sympathy to Kapra's family over their loss.

I am shocked and saddened to hear about Kapra.
She was an incredible person who I am lucky to get to know in high school. Kapra was a great friend and will definitely be missed!

M, I am so sorry and my prayers, thoughts and heart go out to you and Z. You are a wonderful Mom to your children and one of the kindest & caring people I know. Love, Val

I am so sad that Kapra's laugh will never be heard again, or her beautiful smile will not light up a room. I feel blessed that I got the chance to become her friend and share her laughter... She will be missed in the Watertown NY Area...

The only semester at Miami that felt empty was the one Kapra left to go to BG. Thankfully, she came right back to Miami! Kap and I did our junior recital together...we did everything together. From spring break trips to DO/Phi Mu Alpha retreats; from auditions and recitals to Dr. Fox exams! The hours we spent together are etched in my heart. She was the first person to ever call me "Trashbrook" and I laughed so hard I cried. I couldn't believe no one else had ever thought of it! We always signed our cards by our nicknames for each other; "Trashy" and "Krappy". We were quite the pair! I loved so much about her. I can't imagine her gone. She will be greatly missed.

Love in DO,

I am so sorry to hear of Kapra's untimely passing. I was so looking forward to seeing her, or hearing from her during our twenty year high school reunion. Her smile was truly contagious! It speaks volumes of her character that she has been so fondly remembered. She will be missed.

My family will keep Kapra and her family in our prayers. I had the great honor of working with her at Ft Drum and she had to be one of the finest conductors I have seen. She could find the good in all that she did and now will be frst chair in the heavenly orchestra.

Live life with no regrets. I have but one. It should not have ended this way. 30 years of friendship. I will treasure every memory.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Quain family. I went to Miami with Kapra and in fact we shared section duties for 2 years in MUMB. I remember Kapra as someone who was always smiling and always up for some fun. I spent many a memorable fall Saturday marching in her company - I'm sure that's where I saw her put her fist in her mouth! It's clear that she not only spread her special brand of cheer but also her knowledge and wisdom after graduating from Miami. I honor her for her service to our Country - she will be greatly missed.

Kapra and I spent many hours together both as colleagues at the School of Music and as friends. She was a true inspiration to many of us, and she'll be sorely missed. I'll always remember our time in rehearsal division contemplating life and talking about students. She had a way about her that was admirable, but hard to emulate. She was one of a kind, and those of us who had the pleasure of knowing her well are better people because of it. We'll miss you Kapra.

Sorry to hear about Kapra. I went to high school with her and she was always so nice and very funny and full of energy. She will definately be missed.

There are no words sufficient to express the shock and sadness I am feeling from having just learned about Kapra's passing. I remember her as an vibrant, precocious, musically gifted young woman with a certain zest for life that only horn players might recognize as 'unique to the species' (... takes one to know one!)

I am so sorry for your profound loss. Kapra will be remembered fondly, certain that the warmth of her loving ways shall never fade.

Most sincerely,

To the family and friends of Kapra ,
You will be in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I went to high school with Kapra in Bowling Green, OH. I will always remember her contagious laugh and fun loving attitude. She will be missed but never forgotten!

Kelly - Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Kapra had a smile to fill the room, and a laugh to brighten your day. She was a much loved girl in high school. We will all remember her at our 20th Reunion. She will be missed by everyone.

My heart goes out to the Quain family. I am deeply saddened by Kapra's passing. I've read some of the other postings and it is clear she has had and continues to have a positive impact on so many lives. She will be missed by all.

The Keller family sadly mourns the loss of Kapra, and we wish our heartfelt condolences to her Parents, family, and friends. I was a classmate of Kapra's at Miami University and she and I took most of our music courses together from our freshman practicum in music ed in 1988 through to sitting next to each other at graduation in 1993. She was a very talented horn player, always entertaining classmate, and ultimately a true supportive friend. I know her choice of career kept us away from being able to get together with her in the time since our Miami years. I most remember enjoying a cold beer with Kapra after moving a 200-lb entertainment center from my apartment to hers...three blocks away...on only a tiny wheel cart. I don't think I've ever laughed so hard in my life. I will always remember her.

As a high school friend of Kapra I remember many many good times. Although I haven't seen her in years, it saddens me that such a friendly and vibrant soul has left our world. My heart felt condolences go out to her family.

I had the privelige of serving with Kapra at the Armed Forces School of Music. She always had a few minutes to chat with a smile, and had such great perspectives. She will be sorely misse by all who know her.

Kapra will be missed by all of us that knew her. The great horn choir in the sky will add another voice to its chorus.

Although I didn't know Kapra personally, I have often heard her talents praised here at the School of Music. She had a direct positive impact on hundreds of military musicians. My deepest condolences.

I am so sad to hear that one of my good friends from high school has passed on. I remember her as a funny, vibrant person. We had some good times in band! She will be missed.

Hearing about Kapra's untimely passing took our breath away. Nobody should leave the world so young, let alone someone with so much to offer us.

After hearing the news Vikki and I took at least two hours to share stories and memories from the times we spent with Kapra. It was an honor to know her, and our lives are better because she was a part of us.

By knowing her you not only laughed and smiled more often, you became a better person. We were lucky to have her in our life, and we will miss her terribly.

Our condolences to the family and to all who knew her.

I sat with Kapra Quain in junior high (middle school) history. A very long time ago. I knew her then and I'm sure she after knowing her then became a great american. It hurts me to see a fellow classmate fallen.

To the family of Kapra Quain,
I Knew Kapra from Bowling Green High School, class of 1988. I remember her as a very musically talented girl. She was always very kind to me and she will never be forgotten. My sympathies to the family. We will honor Kapra at our 20th year class reunion memorial July 11th. Sympathies, Dr. Wallace DePue.

Her smile will not easily go into the night.

SSG Kapra Quain .. it is MY Honor and Priviledge to have served with you. My thoughts go out to the family and friends of this kind lady.

I was very stunned and saddened about Kapra. I remembered her incredible sense of humor as well as her talent and professionalism while we were at Fort Drum, NY together. She was an awesome person and someone I had the privilege of knowing. Her friends, family and loved ones will always be our prayers.

Kapra was an integral part of my growth as a conductor. For several years while on staff at the Armed Forces School of Music, and then again as a student, Kapra provided needed guidance and perspective. Kapra was always positive and was a great person to work with.

Mary and Rick-This is not the way it should be. Parents should leave this world before their children. The girls had a lot of history with each other. First day of school, Rhonda came home and told me she found her new best friend. Kapra Quain from Bywood Lane. THat was it-they did keep in touch for a long time. The memories-Grandma Betty, Mary's Pizza, I still make that.Then the Chicken Pox. Kapra had a great talent for music. The laugh-I can still hear her laugh. My love to you all. Nancy

I had the privilege of serving with Kapra at the School of Music, first as her horn instructor when she first came through as a student, and then as a colleague when she came back as a staff member.
I remember her as a very talented, smart and witty person. She always had the funniest come-backs and an extremely sharp wit. She was dedicated to her job and had a love of life and music.
I was very surprised and saddened to hear of her passing. The world was a better place during her short stay with us. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

Kapra was a coworker of mine at the School of music. She taught music, but more importantly, she taught me so much about life. Her unique spirit and attitude touched so many lives. I consider it an honor to have served with her. She will be sadly missed by all that knew her.

I worked with Kapra for a brief period at Fort Drum, and we spent quite a few nights chatting when both of us were having hard times. I never thought the last time I saw her would be the last time. She had a strong spirit in the face of adversity and a great sense of humor. I am shocked and saddened by this terrible loss, and I hope that she is in a better place surrounded by beautiful music.

We were so sorry to hear about Kapra's death. We fondly remember the times we would see her at Miami U. and the time she spent in our home. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Bob & Norma Reineke

Dear Mary and family: My heart positively aches for you. I saw the sad, heart-wrenching news in Sunday's Star Tribune, and I could hardly believe it.

I'm sorry that I haven't kept in touch with Kapra since she left Shandwick many years ago. But during my time of knowing her, it was clear she was incredibly musically talented and that she had great things ahead of her. And it appears she certainly found a wonderful match for her talents with all her amazing achievements that followed.

My heart hurts for you. You are in my thought and prayers. I'm so very sorry I will not be able to attend either the visitation or the service, as I am out of state this week. But I hope, Mary, that you and I can have coffee this summer. If there's anything I can do for you or any of your family, please do let me know.

Love to you all,
Barb (Young) Iverson
[email protected]

I was so saddended to hear about Kapras death today. I remember when she came to ODU and was conducting the band... man we gave her grief sometimes, but she knew how to get us into shape. I remember talking to her after rehersal one day and realizing what an amazing person she was. After her masters was done and she was finished conducting the band it was one of the first times I was actually going to miss one of the student conductors. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family in their time of need. Kapra will always be in my thoughts.

Jennifer and I are deeply saddened to hear the news of Kapra's passing. Kapra was among a group of students who arrived at Miami University the same time I did, in the fall of 1988. They put up with my shortcomings as a young faculty member and we grew together musically and personally. Even after 20 years at Miami, and having many great students along the way, that first group continues to have a very special place in my heart, as did Kapra. I was proud of her conviction and determination; I know she would have continued to make a difference in people's lives after leaving the military. I will remember her always with great affection.

I worked with Kapra at the School of Music. She was a great person to work with and I admired her greatly. She will be missed.

Rick, Mary, and Kelly,
I want to express my sincerest condolences to you at this time. What a heartache.

Words fail to help make sense of this loss, and its suddenness is so surprising; it seems remarkably unfair.

How can you not just smile and giggle when you think of Kapra? What a talent! What a sense of humor! And, with the fondest, loving remembrance, what a great, big mouth (and smile)! Did you ever see her put her fist in it? She was about the funniest damn person I've known.

I met Kapra during our "formative years" at West Junior High (Columbia, MO), shortly before she and the family moved to BG. That feels like 100 years ago. For many summers we attended the Midwestern Music Camp in Lawrence, KS, studying under conducting-greats for which we had less appreciation that we should have (apologies to Colonel Arnold Gabriel, David Bushhouse, Prof. Stidham, Ron McCurdy, and others). Through the years we traded summertime vacations (Commander Toad/Toed) and Spring Break visits between Missouri and Ohio (and a side-trip to Windsor), sharing side-splitting laughs over many-a-beer.

Kap and I lost touch years ago, but it always felt like I could dial her on the phone and pick-up where we'd left off. We must savor the time we did have with Kap, and we must value the difficult lesson that life is too short to not attend to the friends and family we have and should cherish.

What a talent, what a humorist, what a friend, and what a loss. I wish all family and friends peace and comfort and hope that this hole in hearts will heal with time.

Respectfully,
Jessica

I can't begin to express my sorrow for this great loss. Kapra was my best friend for many years at Miami University and I will never forget all of the wonderful memories of our times together. We shared so much laughter and tears and great (and not so great) musical experiences. My deepest sympathy goes out to Richard, Mary and Kelley as well as the rest of her family. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered for the rest of my life.

Hi all;
Terribly sad to hear this. . .I lived with Kapra for a year (or so!) at Miami. . .what a tragic loss. . . an intense, intelligent and loving person.

Kapra was like a sister to me. I cannot express the loss I feel in my heart. She was such a rare gem on this earth. I know she will welcome me in heaven one day soon.

I am deeply saddened and extend my condolences. Kapra and I were coworkers at the Navy School of Music. She was an influential leader who nurtured, guided and mentored the students and staff members of the United States Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Upon meeting Kapra it was clear that she was special, God smiled on her, and she had a positive influence on many lives. Richard, Mary and family, God sent his angel here to be a blessing to all of us. Her work here was well done and now she smiles and watches from heaven with him.

I was Kapra's supervisor at the Armed Forces School of Music, but I was privileged to be able to work with her and to call her my friend. She was a rare human being. So smart, focused, but incredibly fun loving despite her medical challenges. She endured much pain, but never lost her sense of humor. A lesser person would have given up. I am stunned to hear that she is gone. Rest in Peace, Kapra. There are hundreds of young musicians worldwide that learned much from you, as well as us old guys. Love, Rob

Kapra was a truly gifted individual whose love of music and life was abundantly evident. We became instant friends at the School of Music. She will be missed by all whose lives she touched. Kapra, you left us too soon and we are all better for having known you. May you rest eternally in peace.

I had the extreme pleasure to serve with Kapra at the School of Music for two years. She was an incredible talent and a beautiful person. I am deeply saddened by the news of her passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

Kapra's passion for music was infectious, her conducting skills fabulous, her smile beautiful. She was a positive influence to many soldiers, sailors and marines at the School of Music. I feel fortunate to be one of them.

SSG Quain was one of my instructors while I was a student at the School of Music. She was a wonderful conductor and a great leader. I always enjoyed being in her rehearsals and talking about music with her. She will be GREATLY missed.

I was sckocked to hear about Kapra. I worked with her at the School of Music and we got to hang out at times off duty with friends. She had an awesome personality and was fun to be around. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.