MARY KRISTINE CHEATUM

I too worked with Kris, and Sara, in KC,Ks. Kris and I had our boys at the same time. I left in 1972 but Kris kept in contact at least once a year, especially when she told us John would be on TV. She will be missed by all who knew her and worked with her. All my sympathies to John and Steven and their families.
Pat Weisrock, Sheboygan, WI

Kris and I along with several others were great friends in those early days as young social workers in Kansas City, Kansas. John, I knew you before you were born and as a baby. Steven, I knew you before you were born. I left K.C. in 1967 but Kris and I stayed in touch. She has left us much too soon, but her good works will live on. My deepest sympathy to all who love her.

A beacon for diversity goes dark, but her light lives on

By LEWIS W. DIUGUID
The Kansas City Star

http://www.kansascity.com/2010/06/20/2031633/a-beacon-for-diversity-goes-dark.html

I had the pleasure of spending many hours with Kris, and Lynn, in meetings, at events, etc. She was a truly kind, creative, intelligent and selfless leader who not only made a difference but did so while making all around her enjoy it. I am honored to have known her. She will be greatly missed.

John and Steven,
I am sorry about the loss of your Mom and your Dad. A difficult twelve months. I think back to times when life was simple on Farley Lane - fun we had as kids even though the age spread we had. Fond memories of Raincloud your dog and your mellow tabby cat (Lee-t?). The times your cousins visited from Eldorado, Kansas; fun we all had together. We lost our mom, Ruth Oakes last October. I saw in pictures Kris had attended her visitation. How I wish I knew and gone up to say hello and give her a hug. Not a six month time of my life goes by I think about our younger days.

Sincerely
Bill Oakes

To Kris's family,

I am Lynn's cousin, and he has always been very special to me. When I first met Kris, I knew she was the right person for him, and I have long admired her spirit, her commitment to peace, and her love for her family. My sincere sympathies to you: all of us are all diminished by her death.

The world has lost a true hero. Kris was such a committed activist for peace and a beautiful person. My thoughts and prayers go out to Kris' family and friends.

It seems more appropriate to celebrate Kris's life, and the many ways in which she touched our own lives, than to mourn her passing. I believe we can best honor and remember her by keeping alive within ourselves her spirit of love and caring, and to continue walking the road we shared with her: the path of peace.

Mario Galván
Peace Action National Board Member
Sacramento, CA

I had the pleasure of helping Kris and Lynn with their banking needs over the last 3 years. I will always remember her warmth and positive spirit. My condolences to her family

An important presence for peace at the J.C. Nichols fountain will really be missed! Julie Milner

Kris's smile will always be with me.

I met your Mom when we were young social workers. Then I met her again through the unPlaza Art Fair. Chris made this world a better place. She truly was one of those people who had "a life well lived".
I'm so sorry for your loss.

Only Met Kris once, and thought to myself what a sweet wonderful person. My prayers and thoughts go out to her family and friends.

Kris, Kris, I want you to hear this.
You are one of the very few I greatly admire.
Always so upbeat that I would wonder if it was for real, thus there were times when I would tease you about it.
So proud of your boys,John and Steve. They brought you great joy.
Mi Amiga de Alma, Vaya con Dios

To John, Steve and family: Kris was like no other. Her spirit, devotion, love and fight for peace, justice and social change were beyond measure. And, will live forever. She influenced thousands and is greatly missed. Fondly, her longtime friend and admirer, FeralBecky

While some live their lives in quiet desparation, there are those like Kris who stand up and make a difference. This world is lesser place without her.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this beautiful woman.

If UU's had saints, Kris would be one of them. She is greatly missed.

Dear John, Steve, Lynn and family: We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Chris. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers! John...I was remembering when we took the wagon and walked way too far away from the house as kids and got into trouble. I also remember the awesome koolaid glasses (the metalic ones) and the peanut butter and honey sandwiches she always made us. Fondly, Sue (Rodina) Wells , Dave, Josh, Joe, and Amanda Wells

She certainly did add more to this world than she took, by far. May her spirit rest in the peace she fought so hard to achieve.