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In memory of
1948 - 2013
Monica
July 9, 2014
I was Mr. Kaelin's student back in 1990(?), and I'm saddened to hear of his passing. I looked him up online, hoping to send him a letter of gratitude after all of these years...
I'm in my late 30's now, and looking back over my life, I can point to Mr. Kaelin as being one of the very few people who was ever concerned about me, as I was one of those "forgotten" children... almost every day, he would ask me, "Are you okay? Is everything all right at home?" and I felt so strange in the presence of such a kind person that I didn't know what to say... so I said nothing at all.
At least now, I can express my gratitude to his family and friends. He was so gentle to me, and I will always remember him that way.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
November 13, 2013
November 13, 2013
Our favorite cafe in Hill Crest.
November 13, 2013
November 13, 2013
Last prayer on the mountain and they said time was up. I noticed the dog he always wanted waiting by the front door.
November 13, 2013
November 13, 2013
Dad's favorite photo from our trip. Last road trip together.
November 13, 2013
Nov. 21st 2012
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Thanksgiving 2012
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
First time I cooked for my parents in my own appartment.
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Seaport Village 2012
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Lola, Bobo, Sis & Dad
Stevie Jo Killmer
November 13, 2013
Mary Kaye Kaelin
November 13, 2013
Steph Killmer
November 13, 2013
Life throws us curve balls doesn't it? I miss you so much and will write to you a billion times until I see you again. I hear your voice and keep your memories close to my heart. I thought it would get easier with time but it only gets harder. I started saying The Lords Prayer.. your favorite. I still think Kennedy knows the words better then I do. ;) Feel free to visit me in San Diego soon. Carry Ann and Andrew want to take you on the boat. Andrew just turned 60! Thank you for still being in my life. I just realized its been 7 months today. 6:40 pm. I am grateful I was by your side then. Please continue to stay by mine.
Love,
Steph
Stevie Jo Killmer
October 4, 2013
Miss you. I know you're at peace. Thank you for leaving me with mine. Started writing again but lost my favorite journal. Hopefully I'll find the inspiration to rewrite the book. You'll be in the next one too Dad don't worry.
July 18, 2013
It is no small consolation when I tell you that I am a better man for having known Tom Kaelin. They teach us to put "winners" in your life. People that "have something" you want. Tom was and is such a man. My only regret is only having had these last 3 years to have really gotten to know him.
What a great 3 years it was. We 3 amigos, Tom, Tony and I, constantly in touch thanks in large part to emails and texting, especially when my hearing deficit would not allow me to hear the whispering Tom. What I liked most among Tom's many attributes was his unfailing positive attitude! Tony and I would be on and off the Red's banwagon while Tom would be unflinchingly positive. They must have done a better job at Roger Bacon than what I got at Elder!
So, again God Bless you, Mary Kaye, and the family in your grieving period. Tuckey
Heather Hayng
July 18, 2013
May the gifts of your loved one help console you now, and fill your heart with their comforting warmth. My prayers are with you and your family.
June and Tom Williams
July 18, 2013
How very much we appreciated Tony's efforts on your and Tom's behalf in sharing Tom's letter with all of us at Sycamore Junior High School. We heard your dear hubby's practical, up-front, sensitive, and caring personality in his letter. Loved his descriptions of his time spent with family in the last several months, especially the gathering of the Kaelin brothers and the snow that "helped" you to decide to move to Arizona in the first place!
Yes, Sycamore Junior High gave all of us wonderful memories. How fortunate for all of us to have been there during that time frame. We were like a family, truly, and Tom was a big part of that for me. I remember numerous conversations, big and small, with one dominant feature: That winning, flashing smile that made those eyes sparkel! I so fondly cherish "our" special teasing about our curly hair. Tom charished the golf league memories. We loved him, are better people because of having shared his friendship, and applaud his and your courage.
July 18, 2013
Thinking of you with deepest sympathy. We are all the better having Tom touch our lives. He was a dear and sweet man who will be deeply missed. You and Tom were in our daily prayers from beginning to end. We love you. Bruce and Mary
Chris and Jim Goyette
July 18, 2013
Please know you have been in our prayers for a long time. You both are symbols of such great strength, courage, and deep love. Our prayers continue...
Jan Battistini
July 18, 2013
A well lived life leaves beautiful treasures shining on our shores. Mary Kaye, you have been in my thoughts, and you also know how grieved the total Sycamore community is to know that Tom is no longer with us. Our son Robert was a student of Tom's and he fondly remembers Tom! I enjoyed working with Tom, and I missed him when he left the Sycamore staff upon retirement. Many blessings and peace to you and your family.
July 17, 2013
Mary Kaye, Everybody in my family loved their Uncle Tom. We are so sorry to hear about his passing. Most Sincerely, Lois Slivka.
Lee Pittman
July 17, 2013
You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. Tom was one of the kindest and most genuine teachers at Sycamore Junior High. We are all saddened and you love, comfort, and strength at this difficult time.
Tom and June Williams
July 17, 2013
May beauty live on in your memories and bring you peace. With deepest sympathy and prayers.
July 17, 2013
A Mass has been offered athe the Community of Good Shepherdfor the intention of Tom Kaelin. This thoughtful request has been offered by Jim and Jim Goyette of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Kathy Nagel
July 17, 2013
Hopping that time passing will somehow help ease your sorrow and that loving memories will bring you comfort.
Jack & Sara alley
July 16, 2013
Tom had such a happy life with you, Mary Kaye, with adventure, new beginnings, and comfort, too. We are so sorry he is gone.
Neil and Linda Gartner
July 16, 2013
Wishing you the strength you need to carry you through this time. With great sympathy to you Mary Kaye, Stephanie, Ryan and Montana.
July 16, 2013
A Mass has been said in memory of Tom offered by Ken and Mary Drysbeck, Sunc City Grand, AZ
Dave and Joni Senior
July 16, 2013
Our world won't be the same without him, but the next world has gained one heck of a soul. Tom will be greatly missed.
Mari Louise Hubbard-Miller
July 16, 2013
My heart was heavy after learning of Tom's homegoing. I just wanted to let you know how greatly Tom was loved. He was always kind and loving. My prayers are with you and your family. Peace and Blessing always.
Mary Lou Hoffar
July 16, 2013
I was fortunate to work at the Sycamore Junior High with Tom for about 10 years. When he saw me, he would sing a bit of "We'll Hello Mary Lou." That very song now reminds me of him and how joyful he was about life. He took great pride in teaching but even greater pride in his beloved family. May your special memories of Tom help fill your loss.
Judy Foster
July 16, 2013
He will always be with you, whatever you do and wherever you go. For now may caring thoughts from others help you through. My sincere regrets.
Stephanie Reedy
July 16, 2013
I remember teaching a class in Tom's room my very first year of teaching at Sycamore 20 years ago. He was always so welcoming with that amazing smile and so gracious with his time and expertise. I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Take care of yourself Mary Kaye
John & Holly Ruff
July 16, 2013
Holly and I were so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was a good friend. We will miss him.
Bud & Diane Cole
July 16, 2013
Diane and I are so saddened to hear of the loss of Tom. He was a wonderful, kind person and will be missed by all who knew him. Our sincere sympathy to you and your family. Fond regards and prayers are sent your way.
Ed Chartier
July 16, 2013
In Loving Memory Of Tom Mass will be said at Good Shepherd Parish on August 4th, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio. This offering has been generously made by Ed Chartier.
Mary Morgan
July 12, 2013
I was a secretarial sub at Sycamore Jr. High School when I met Tom. He was the sweetest gentlest guy and so friendly. I lived in Loveland and would bump into him at Kroger and both of you at Good Shepherd. I am so sorry for your loss but it was good that he got to see his sons and daughter and brothers in the end. My sincere sympathy to you and his family.
Ginny Geary Laskovics
July 7, 2013
I just found out this week that Tom had passed away. I'm so sorry for your loss. Tom was a delight to work with at the Sycamore Junior High School. He was always so cheerful and he had a "radiant" smile! I know you will miss him so much.
Mary Bransford
July 7, 2013
I was so sorry to hear the news of Tom's passing. I know how devastated you must be. I know you have seen lots of your friends the past few weeks and hopefully this has brought you comfort. I will be at Tom's memorial mass at Good Shepherd on August 4th at 9:00am to see you. God Bless You Mary Kaye.
Debbie & Tom Fisher
June 26, 2013
Mary Kaye, we are so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was a wonderful teacher and very special man. He was always so upbeat and caring. And, as you well know, he loved you and life so very much. He will truly be missed.
Phillip Helburn
June 17, 2013
I am so very sorry to hear of the death of Tom. I am pleased I got to speak with him on several occasions, he was a great guy. You and Tom were so good together, a great couple. The loss must be devastating for you, I can't even imagine it.
Mary Kaye you are as spiritually advanced as anyone I know, I hope that helps, it does not take away the pain and agony of our human side. I wish I had some words of wisdom I can only pass on what John Edwards says "You never get over the loss of a loved one but you do get through it."
You are in my prayers. Darlene and I miss your presence in the store. Love and Blessings.
Martyn Barratt
June 17, 2013
Tom,
It didn't happen often but you certainly messed this one up. We were supposed to have a lot of fun together in our retirement. I'm sure going to miss you.
Love,
Your favorite brother-in-law
Janet Berg
June 14, 2013
Mary Kaye I was so saddened to hear of Tom's passing, I had no idea. What a great man he was--anyone who could handle my Dad is tops on my list! Wishing for you all good things and sending hugs to you.
Cathy & Keith Johnson
June 14, 2013
Mary Kaye so very sorry to hear about Tom. He was a special gentleman with a great smile and personality. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. Keith and I will be at Tom's memorial mass on August 4th at 9:00am Good Shepherd Church on Kemper Rd, Cincinnati. God Bless You!
Sherri & Mike Powell
June 14, 2013
Mary Kaye we are so stunned and so sad with the news of Tom. What a special guy with such a giving heart. One of our favorite people of all. We are heartbroken for you knowing he was truly your best friend. Hope you are dong well. Thank you for letting us know about the Mass being offered in memory of Tom on August 4th at 9:00am at Good Shepherd on Kemper Rd. This will be a great way for us to remember him in Cincinnati. We will be there and the website page and Video are beautiful! With a heavy heart and much Love. Sheri, Mike, Derek and Raechel.
June 11, 2013
Maurine and I know how hard this is for you and wish you God's peace.
Jack and Maurine Stevens
Kathy Weber
June 8, 2013
Dear Mary Kaye,
I was so saddened to open your letter today and find the news about Tom. I am so very sorry for your loss. From the beginning, and through the years, it was evident how very much you loved each other. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Gary Trovillian
June 8, 2013
I hope you are doing ok Mary Kaye. Tom was a fine man and will be missed by all of us who knew him.
June 8, 2013
We are truly honored by the remembrance of Tom Kaelin and pleased to donate to "Hospice of the Valley" in his name. With love to you Mary Kaye Iris Wigman, Cincinnati,Ohio
Lynn and Roy Shoemaker
June 8, 2013
A donation was made in memory of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley" by Lynn and Roy Shoemaker.
Steve & Bev Singleton
June 4, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Tom was one of the finest men I have ever met. I will miss him. Bev and I are praying to GOD to give you comfort as you deal with this loss. Your friend
Karen Gayoso
June 3, 2013
I am saddened to hear of Tom's passing. He was such a great guy. I hope you are doing o.k.We have been thinking of you Mary Kaye. Thoughts and prayers go out to you. I liked the beautiful video you put together. It shows what a beautiful life you have had with Tom. Love Karen and Al.
Yevette Jessen
June 3, 2013
You've been on my mind a lot lately Mary Kaye. I just thought I'd send you a note to tell you that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you continue to deal with the loss of Tom. He was a wonderful man. God Bless you and your family
Marcia Greenwald
June 3, 2013
I was so upset when I heard of Tom's passing. He was a great guy, always enjoyed talking with him. And as you know you had such a great relationship together. I'm sure times will be rough for a long time. Hope you are hanging in there. I've tried calling a couple of times. If you are ever in Cincinnati and have a few minutes give me a call. Tom will be missed.
June 3, 2013
Tom,
After reading all the emails that your friends and relatives have written about you, it saddens me to think that you and I can't talk about all the nice comments that are being said about you. I will miss you my brother and always remember the good times as we were growing up. I know your golf game is getting better where you play now. I want a rematch the next time I see you.
Love You Tom'
Larry
June 2, 2013
Tom, I will miss you so much. You made me feel so welcome when I first met you and then became Larry's wife. You had such a way to make people feel special when they were around you. You were an amazing person and by far the best looking brother! Your beautiful smile and wonderful laugh, along with all the love you had and so willingly gave, will forever be missed but cherished always. I love you, Janet
Kennedy Kaelin
May 29, 2013
I love you grandpa so much! I am really so sad because you are gone. It was special when we went to church and had lunch at Steak and Shake and when you bought me candy. I love you so much because you did special things with me. I am so sorry that I can't see you again. I called you grandpa-pa and you called me Kennedy-pa. I love you to the moon and back. Love your granddaughter, Kennedy. Age 6.
Nikalys Kaelin
May 29, 2013
Dear Grandpa, I miss you. I am so sad that you are gone. I love you!
your grandson, Nikalys
Dick and Julia Stegmaier
May 29, 2013
Tom brought joy to all of us at the Sycamore Junior High School and was a friend to both the students and staff. Some of my special memories with Tom include my retirement party on your backyard deck in the spring of 2000 and at Ryan's wedding in Columbus. He loved you and the kids very much.
Matt Kaelin
May 27, 2013
I love you Uncle Tom, so grateful I was able to have you as my Uncle. I'll never forget our times on the golf course and especially our times on the lake. You were a great Uncle and a better person, your kindness and gentle way towards all is something I've always admired and tried to instill in my everyday life. I miss you Uncle Tom, I will never forget you.
Susan Pak
May 27, 2013
You have always been so wonderful to me and my family. We all miss you dearly! Thank you so much for raising an amazing son who has all of your wonderful qualities! With deepest sympathy to Mary Kaye and your family.
Linda Concepcion
May 27, 2013
My children and I have been so blessed to have known you! You have always been so loving towards them. You have an incredible son, who my sister has been blessed to have married! We truly miss you! My heart goes out to you Mary Kaye and to the rest of the family. I know that through his grandchildren, his wisdom, generosity, and compassion will live on!
Kittie Brown
May 27, 2013
A donation has been made in memory of Thomas Kaelin to Hospice of the Valley by Kittie Brown. Tom was loved deeply by his family and his friends.
Lisa Kaelin
May 26, 2013
My dearest father-in-law, Tom. Thank you for accepting me into your family with open arms. Since the day I met you and Mary Kaye, I've always felt like I was one of your own. I am grateful for all of the time we spent together and for all of the wonderful memories that were created. Thank you for raising an incredible son. He has your heart of gold. We are lucky to have our children, Nikalys and Kennedy and hope they carry on to have your wisdom, strength , intelligence, and warm heart. I am so fortunate to have met such an incredible person who has touched so many lives. My thoughts are with you, Mary Kaye, Ryan, Montana, Stephanie, NIk and Kennedy, your brothers and their children as well as other family members, friends and students who have had the opportunity to know you. I love you and you will be greatly missed.
Shannon Kaelin
May 25, 2013
Uncle Tom was always a joy to be around! He was passionate about teaching, family, and living life to the fullest! I will always remember the wonderful times at Lake Santee and family get-togethers. Uncle Tom will always be in my heart - especially while I am teaching.
Marilyn and Rudy Rudolph
May 25, 2013
A donation was made in memory of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley" by Marilyn and Rudy Rudolph. We love you Tom and our best to your family.
stevie Jo Killmer
May 25, 2013
I met my friends horses today. We enjoyed time on her land with her pack of dogs and two beautiful horses. The Beach Boys were playing... made me think of you. The movie we watched took place in Ohio...reminded me of you. I recognize the signs you send and hope you send more. I love you so much Dad. Its hard to sleep at night... when its silent I miss you most. Know you are not forgotten. With every wind chime I hear..humming bird I see..horse... butterfly..Beachboys song... church...rainbow..daisy..peppermint scent..Ohio license plates....random coins I find & the like I know you are here.
Craig and Vicki Ullery
May 24, 2013
A gracious donation was made in memory of Thomas Kaelin to Hospice of the Valley by Craig and Vicki Ullery. Tom will always be in out thoughts.
May 24, 2013
love you Tom, will miss talking with you.
Ray Medford NJ
Lynn & Roy Shoemaker
May 23, 2013
Mary Kaye, Tom was truly a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. We had looked forward to creating wonderful memories; little did we know that time was not going to be on our side. We will cherish the ones we have in knowing Tom always.
Annie Schucart
May 23, 2013
Tom was a wonderful man. His life and his marriage was from haven. Not only was he loved by so many children but he was loved by all of his friends as well. He was blessed with one of the most wonderful women I have ever known. We will miss you Tom and we love you.
May 23, 2013
Mary Kaye, we will miss Tom very much. He was a sweet and kind man. He is never forgotten. May his memory be a blessing for everyone he knew. Love always, Biggi
May 23, 2013
Tom was always so kind and gentle, and, when my Mom passed away, Tom was so great for my Dad! He'd call, visit, go over to my Dad's home to watch football games together. Tom had such a wonderful heart, and we all knew it. During Tom's last visit to Cincinnati I had the great fortune to drive up from Lexington to spend time with Tom, and MK, one of the best decisions I've ever made...to spend quality time with Tom. In addition to seeing Tom, a highlight was having Tom describe the weekend naming a football field after his Dad. The pride Tom showed was evident, his love for his Dad, and it was a time I'll never forget. Here is Tom, knowing his our outcome, and his focus that day was sharing that experience with us, typical Tom! I feel very fortunate to have known Tom, and I am forever grateful for how nice he was to my Dad, wonderful guy!!
Paul Chartier (Lexington, Ky)
Tatiana Neal
May 21, 2013
Thought and prayers are with you and your family. May god surround you with his peace and healing,sympathy. Tatiana Neal
Ike
May 19, 2013
MK you did a great job with the pictures showing Tom's love of life and how much he enjoyed everything he did. Many people get married and have a life together never reaching the higher level that I feel can only come from being lucky enough to find their soul mate. I believe life only gives you one and Tom was yours. He will be missed but soul mates are forever and his spirit shall be with you for the rest of your life.
Jerry and Marcia File
May 19, 2013
A generous donation was made in memory of Tom Kaelin to Hospice of the Valley by Jerry and Marcia File at "Life is Good in Arizona" Long Realty Team.
Jerry Kaelin / Fran Langdon
May 18, 2013
Cousin Tom was 3+ years older than I....and as kid, that's light years. In the midst of the celebration chaos of Christmas at grandparents and grand aunts and uncles on Kessler Ave (in front of Roger Bacon HS), Tom always took time with me and my younger brother Steve and baby sister Nonie. That quality of time and presence always endeared me to Tom.
Later in life when I was a Franciscan priest, I was able to host some of those Christmas gatherings at St. Francis and Tom's presence smile continued to light up the room. Our paths then only crossed at a few weddings and more funerals of parents, aunts and uncles. Before they moved to AZ, Tom & Mary Kaye welcomed us to their Love-land home when we would drive down from Chicago to Cincinnati for those funerals. Always gracious, always kind and always a great listener.
When Tom was in hospice, I was privliged to talk and, at his request, to pray with him. We were both in tears -- in sadness and in gratitude for the blessings of our lives. I continue in sadness at his death, but also in gratitude for this Kaelin Kuzzin Tom.
Michael and Margaret Piche
May 18, 2013
A generous donation was made in memory of Thomas Frank Kaelin to Hospice of the Valley by Michael and Margaret Piche
Courtney Craven
May 18, 2013
My prayers and thoughts are with our whole Kaelin family. Uncle Tom was an amazing man. I will never forget the many memories we made at Lake Santee as a child. I'm very thankful that I was able to spend so much time with him this past year at our wedding, and then again in New Jersey. One day we will meet again.
Stevie Jo Killmer
May 18, 2013
It has been difficult for me to sign the guest book. The truth is.. no words could conclude the love I shared with my Dad. I felt like it was a dishonor to sum up his life into words or say goodbye. This is not goodbye.. this is not the end..the story has just began. You saw something in all of us that we couldn't see in ourselves Dad. I remember I kept telling you its okay. You're going to be okay. You told me "choose faith over fear." You were strong and on point to the day you passed. I felt your spirit rise up as you left your body. Mom said, "You're the love of my life!" You had stopped breathing and we thought you were gone.... once Mom said those words you gasped for one last breath seconds later. Kaye, Mom & I said its okay to go to the light and tears fell down your eyes, embodying the essence of your strength.
I can't begin to tell everyone our story or the story of the light you brought to this world but I would like to share with everyone my favorite letter I wrote you... I wish I could get in the car and see you again but you're spirit is a part of my heart & soul now and I don't have to go far to find you...I look within. (Saves me a lot of gas money ;)
I still hear you say, "Furry Friends First".... "Hey Steph its ME Dad!" ... How's your mother doing? He was always worried about leaving her but he re assured me she is strong and not to worry. He wanted to make sure we stuck with our art, spirituality & passion for animals. He told me to stay focused on my love.. My doggies & writing... They have licked many tears away. Their smiles remind me of your sparkling eyes Dad..I think Bobo & Lola still look for you at Lions Coffee, Grizzy sees you when you stop by even with his cataracts....
Dec. 12 2013 His last night he stayed in San Diego with me & Mom. April 9th the last time he spoke to me in person & over the phone. Dates settle in my mind like dust.. memories taunt me .. I wait for a text or a call and realize... you are higher then us now.. you're in heaven. I am honored to meet you again in heaven some day. Thank you for being my guardian angel..
Out of respect to you I wouldn't have shared these letters or blogs because they were between us but you told me to share my experiences and write to the world.... So here goes.. this is for you Dad... I wrote this when you & Mom were sound asleep visiting me in San Diego only 5 months ago...
I knew there was little time left.... I would have written more if I knew you would be gone so quickly...
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Actions speak louder then words? .. Turn the page.
Judge me not by what I say but by my actions alone?
I have had many conversations in my mind with you, yes...
I have shared the deepest thoughts and inspirations with you in the purest form of thought..
I wish I had a pen and pad to squander my thoughts..
No one peers into the beauty of conversations I've had with you and God alone.. Sometimes the animals peer back like they might have a clue but who knows...
What does it matter if you don't see it in my actions?
If you are not close enough to see my actions then I let something go I miss.
I can't hold on to everything or everyone I wish. I pray the serenity prayer to help me through times like this. Like sand gripped...the tighter you hold it in your hand the faster it slips through your fingers. I try to relax and make each moment count..maybe then I won't grip too tightly and the sands of time will last.
Even if you are not by my side to share these moments with me or see the beauty I see in the world, judge me not by what I write... or what I say but merely by the love within
We want to open up but don't know what to say.. we have shared moments but at times we enjoy the silence
love doesn't judge
Just listen... even if it is silence... grasp my hand and be
For then... and only then might you understand
The loudest noise is silence alone
.... Breathe in the opportunity to be vulnerable...
Its okay to let go...
You shared with me the other day that change is inevitable with every passing moment we change
I can't always say things in words so I write to you and sometimes I write to others too but they may or may not realize....
Judge me not by my actions alone but embrace my energy we have shared.
Embrace the good and let go of all and any judgment.
Respect and proceed to open your eyes and heart to life...
You are the light I see in the morning sky that rises as my sleepy head debates whether to hit snooze or not.
You are the twinkle in the dogs eye
You are the tear drop that purifies my soul...
I surrender and lift my heart up to a higher power and bless my breath.. for every breath I take I share with you and even after you are gone I will breathe you in.
My family is my rock and my animals are my spirit and sense of purpose... I am blessed with each and every tail that wags and hug that is shared...
The lump in my throat is too heavy to swallow...I continually ruminate on what is, was, and wasn't... I think of all I want to do and what wasn't said or should be said... and then I remind myself to just be...
Sometimes its best to be silent and be in that present moment with someone you care for .. or just be alone.
I can't digest the whirl wind of emotions my spirit is trying to alphabetize right now.
I want to spend every waking moment with you but when you are here I don't know what to say... when I leave I have a list of questions for you but I know its painful to speak.
At your house its easier to communicate but for some reason on my home base the wall is up... I have to convince myself that nothing is changing and nothing is wrong so I smile. I wake up with the sun and try to push myself to the limits... I smile at everyone that walks by and ask them how they are... I think of how it must feel to be in your shoes as well as theirs.
I try to listen more and talk less but my mind isn't in the present moment because I am so afraid of losing you so I can't say the words I want because the words I want haven't yet been written in the English language..
No human could express how I feel....
I apologize for the things I can not express in words..there is so much I would like to share with you but I don't know what to say. My energy interacts with yours.. my memories interchange with your thoughts and I feel the beauty in life when I See eyes shine.
When you dropped me off at college... I turned my head to say... "Why don't you stay and show me around?" You told me it was time for you to go. You said these would be the best years of my life and they were. One of my best friends taught me knowledge money couldn't buy in college... That life is an adventure and to embrace every moment. Joshua taught me to JUST BE and be content with being alive. There is so much I want to say I can not type because the beauty is with in us we have shared and no words could reflect that.
You left when I wanted you to stay that year... College freshman year...I never learned more in my life then I did when you left and allowed me to grow. Once I graduated we grew close and now for some reason you have to leave but I promise once we meet again you will be proud Dad.... hopefully as proud as you are now. With the love and inspiration I have shared with you in our conversations I hope I can some how share that open dialect here.
I told you tonight..."My heart is heavy...like a soggy paper towel"... and for the first time I cried in San Diego with you.. my mind is wound tight like a drum here because I am alone. Because I am alone I have to be strong. I have to take care of myself here and I protect myself with walls I unconsciously build. At your house I have you and mom so its easier to let down my guard.. its okay to cry there... You catch me when I fall. Letting go and being vulnerable in my home is a challenge. I am afraid to let go.
I talk to the dogs.. humans and God and embrace my sadness channeling it into positive avenues like my work and working out.. I wake up with out judgment because today is a gift to me and you will always share these moments with me as long as I am present and mindful in these moments.
Judge no one.. for sometimes the ones that teach you the most in life are the ones you misunderstood at first and maybe it was too late once you finally connected...
or was it...
Everything seems to be in its right place... They say God works in mysterious ways...
If God is so mysterious then I will respect god with this.. I will not tell you the ending of the story because in my story you stay... in my story there are many more adventures and we light up the world.... The family grows bigger and we laugh harder... we learn so much we write books about life and share the beauty with others...
In my story you write the ending and I meet you half way... you leave the part out where we go separate ways because we never actually part... we just lost track of what page we were on and thought we lost each other..
We were shocked to find there was another story written after this one....
The beauty in this life is not knowing what is next... you make the adventure worth turning the page for...For this.. I ask you with all due respect continue writing another chapter but don't tell me what is next. In my story there is no end we just lose track of what page we are on and continue to write infinite novels... Dyslexic mind boggling adventures where its okay to lose track of what page you are on because there is no time and space
Gregg Rampleman
May 17, 2013
My wife and I just came back from a little get away to do some hiking. We spent some time looking at some photos I have of the 3 amigos
(Tom, Tony, and myself). My wife did not know Tom but her admiration of him was high. She listened to all the conversations that her brother Tony and I have had about Tom while he walked this earth and after he departed it. She wished she had gotten to know him. I was very honored to have called him friend if only for the couple of years that we really got to know one another. Like Tony said previously, we lost our great sports buddy. Ever the optimist, we no longer have him to keep the positive perspective. BUT, I will have the lessons he taught me forever.
Mike and Linda Mattia
May 17, 2013
Mary Kaye thank you for sending us the link so we may donate to the Hospice of the Valley team who cared for Tom. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. We love you.
May 17, 2013
Some people make a difference through their kindness, caring & examples and when they are gone those things live on in the lives of those they have touched. I feel blessed to have had Tom touch my life he will be deeply missed.
Love & Prayers, Kittie
Chris Hafer
May 16, 2013
Tom was always someone I thought dearly of as a good friend and as a teacher at Sycamore Junior High. He always remembered the good times!
He will be misses by so many who knew him.
Mike Pallario
May 16, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was such a terrific man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. The Loveland Art studio misses you.
Keith and Gina Davidson
May 16, 2013
Gina and I are honored to make a donation in the name of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley". We are equally honored to be living in the home you and Tom so lovingly built together in Loveland, OH. Our dream home now is filled with all the love and care you and Tom entrusted to us.
Elaine and Jim Hinnenkamp
May 16, 2013
Our sincere sympathy to Mary Kaye. We wish to make this donation in memory of Tommy to "Hospice of the Valley". We will miss our dear cousin Tommy.
Marcia and Bob Doenges
May 16, 2013
A donation was made in the memory of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley," by Marcia and Bob Doenges.
We are so sorry for you loss (and ours). Tom was a special cousin.
Susan & Jack Heimerdinger
May 16, 2013
A donation has been made in memory of Thomas Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley," by Susan and Jack Heimerdinger.
Mary Kaye, we hold you and your family in our prayers. Tom is at peace and we pray for peace to come to you. Take care.
Patty & Martyn Barrat
May 16, 2013
A very generous donation was made in the memory of Tom Kaelin by "Rainbow Retreat." a healing center in Curacao.
It was through the efforts of Dr.Wong and the acupuncture treatment administered to Tom in his final days of life, that Thomas did not suffocate to death. He died pain FREE and peacefully. A special Thank You to Patty and Martyn Barratt who allowed for this opportunity to become Tom's miracle at Rainbow Retreat Healing Center.
Kim and Kerstin Seroogy
May 15, 2013
Mary Kaye, we were so sad to learn of Tom's passing away and hope you are doing OK. We are pleased to make this donation in loving memory of Tom to "Hospice of the Valley.
John and Connie Rhoads
May 15, 2013
A generous donation has been made in memory of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley" by John and Connie Rhoads, Loveland OH.
Tom was one of the kindest souls we've ever known. We will miss you.
Mike and Terri Wolfer
May 15, 2013
A donation has been made in memory of Tom Kaelin to "Hospice of the Valley" by Mike and Terri Wolfer.
Mary Kaye, so very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He will always be remembered with that radiant smile and positive attitude - always our best to you and your family.
May 15, 2013
In Memory of Tom Kaelin, a generous donation has been made to "Hospice of the Valley" by Ike Icard, Milford, OH
May 15, 2013
In memory of Tom Kaelin a donation to "Hospice of the Valley" has been made by Anne and Mark Durket of Cincinnati, OH.
Carey Eckler
May 15, 2013
Hospice of The Valley donation "Given in the name of Tom Kaelin, one of the teachers who made Sycamore Junior High such a wonderful place to work. I thoroughly enjoyed viewing the photos of Tom, with his beautiful smile, at work, and play with friends and family. He was a blessing to all he knew and loved."
Legacy Remembers
Posted an obituary
April 15, 2013
Thomas Kaelin Obituary
Thomas Frank Kaelin, 65, of Surprise, AZ is in the arms of our Lord after quietly passing away the evening April 13, 2013, with his beloved wife, Mary Kaye, at his side. Born on February 14, 1948 to WWII veteran Edward Kaelin and beloved wife... Read Thomas Kaelin's Obituary
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