
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jason Klank
October 4, 2021
Michelle, I still miss you and think of you often. You were certainly taken far too early. I'm looking forward to seeing you again in Heaven. Love ya!
Matt Colbert
February 21, 2017
What a wonderful person. Thought about the day we were all at like Travis getting horribly sunburned. Then going to a fire later that night....ouch. We all miss you!
Jason Klank
October 9, 2007
It's been a year, Michelle...and I still think of you so very often, and of how much I miss you...talking to you.
You are still missed..and hardly forgotten.
Sandi Tolces
July 19, 2007
Still miss you my friend. Guess I will forever. Still want to pick up the phone and talk with you and hate that I can't. Happy Birthday--a little late, as always from me! Your spirit and beauty will remain forever in our hearts.
Kathryn Otto
July 14, 2007
My sister,
I am in Antigua, Guatemala this year on your birthday week. It is so hard to believe that I won´t be able to call you when I get home to tell you every detail of my trip. I mean, I haven´t even gotten to finish telling you about China...
Today, I went into the beautiful gothic cathedral of la Merced. The facade is baby yellow, the color that always reminds me most of you. The inside is full of altars with burning candles placed in front of statues of the saints. I sat on a pew facing the main altar and looked up at the light coming in from above. Somehow it felt like you were showing me all the pictures you would have taken had you been here with your camera.
I love you Michelle, and can´t wait to tell you all about my adventures someday.
Love always,
Kathryn
Jason Klank
July 9, 2007
Happy Birthday Michelle - one of the things we shared together. I sitll miss you greatly!
Jason
Nicci Smith
June 25, 2007
I still miss you sweet lady... One day in the crazy mix of energy I hope that I happen upon you again...
Love you
Nicci
Jamie
January 2, 2007
Dear Michelle,
I miss you everyday, you will always be remembered.
"...Those three words
...are said too much
...They're not enough..."
I Love You,
Jamie
Mike Reed
December 21, 2006
Flipping through iPhoto and finding pictures with you in them - seeing your picture in Meris' photos - the memory remains. How appropos that "Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone" was your ringer, and that your phone rang as your stuff was being retrieved... while the sun still shines on us, I have to wonder how the photographer in you would describe the light you're surrounded by now...
Find a way to tell us...
Chris McCoy
December 17, 2006
Michelle was always so happy about everything...she was the best EMS partner you could have, I remember when i first got my EMT Michelle was a leader and all she would say 'McCoy' you can do it. She loved the camera and was very good at it. I can remeber when she started her portfolio and she asked could she take pics of my little girl and was so happy I said yes, because they where her first pics. She was a very loving person and will be missed. Thanks for everything you taught me Michelle. Please watch over me through the years....Love Chris
Lynn (Cooper) Weir
December 17, 2006
I am sorry for you loss. Michelle was such a beautiful person inside and out. We had so much fun going out to lunch together in high school.
Sincerely,
Lynn Weir
Katrina Van Houten
December 12, 2006
I just found out Michelle is gone. I can not put in words how sorry I am for your family. Please give your family my deepest condolences.
Katie Caffrey-Van Houten
alysha lagerwerff
November 30, 2006
Kathyrn, Your love and dedication to your family is heart warming. The way you have honored your sister and supported your family is an inspiration. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Peace,
Alysha
Tammy Willet
November 16, 2006
Michelle,
You were such a special person in my life... You and I had several discussions on faith God and anything else that came to mind during our conversations. Your love for the Lord leaves me with such comfort in knowing that you are with our Savior and also leaves me with no doubt that he told you well done my child upon your arrival. you will be forever in his presences praising him. I will never forget the time at church at the alter singing at the top of our lungs and just loving Christ toghether. You were my friend and a mentor. God bless your family today and always
Amanda Jenkins
November 16, 2006
I had the richest opportunity to have a long face-to-face conversation with Michelle a week before her accident. She was full of joy--we laughed together, shared stories, planned for the future. My only consolation in losing her on this earth is that I know she is now having the same animated, full of joy conversations face-to-face with God. I missed her so much today, I opened some old emails from her in my deleted file and just read them to remember her voice, her style and the way she saw life. I am jealous for the time God has with her now until we are united again. But I am so thankful for the years the Lord gave us back---we were step-sisters for almost our whole lives, but the last years were the best...so rich, so healing, so wonderful...and they will last me till I see her again. Love, Amanda Jenkins
Cynthia Garza
November 9, 2006
I guess that I have been putting this off long enough. I found out about a week after the accident. I don't know what to say except that I will miss you. Yes, I will even miss those early mornings when you would wake up grumpy, believe me I would feel the same way when we had only got 30 mins of sleep and had to go on another call. It is crazy how we forget little things like that. I am so glad that I had the chance to have met you and to have you be a part of my life. You are a special person and those who have had that opportunity to have met you know what I am talking about and to those who haven't well, they have missed out on a wonderful, talented, and awesome person.
To your family: Thank you so much for sharing your daughter with the world. She will be missed but remembered always.
Love.....C
Sandi Tolces
November 3, 2006
Michelle, I will miss you terribly. I loved climbing into the back of an ambulance and seeing your face. You were amazingly talented as both a medic and a photographer. But more than either of those, you were a great friend. When I changed jobs and started those early morning drives to Houston, you were the one I called at 6am. I always knew you would have me laughing--and very little makes me laugh that early! I will never forget you. Your family is in my prayers.
bridget & kevin lonseth
November 1, 2006
The first time I met Michelle was when I was looking for a photograhpher for our wedding. We immediately connected. After she was done giving me referals for cakes, flowers, etc., she asked me "Is there any thing else I can help you with?" I jokingly told her that we still needed someone to marry us. She said "Well, my father is a preacher!" She gave us the best wedding gift of anyone -- her wonderful father. Michelle photograhed our wedding that night while her father married us. I have gotten to know Michelle well since our wedding. She had great spirit and talent and had a way of making you feel so special. I will never forget her and I am praying for her and her family family.
Amy Strutton
October 26, 2006
I cannot find the words to express what I am feeling. Please know you all are in my prayers.
Joan you took my little daughter for a ride on your horse while your daughter was saving me. None of us will ever forget Michelle or you.
She was one of the best friends I ever had. She lived her life passionately,she gave of herself freely with kindness and compassion. Nobody who met her could ever forget her and her beauty will live on through the photos she took, and the memories she made.
She loved you all so much.
Please know that not a day goes by that she and all of you are not in Jasie and my prayers.
Jasie took the news very hard but said that Sassy would be up there waiting for her. Sometimes a child knows just what to say. Sometimes adults do not.
I loved her like a sister and will never forget the way she gave me strength when I had none.
Amy,Jasie, and Aaron
Geoff & Jennifer F
October 24, 2006
Just wanted to let you know we're thinking about you.
Kimberly Bishop
October 22, 2006
When I would work with Michelle on duty she would show me her new slides and photos. She was extremely talented, her work was so emotional and personal. She would say "I know it's a good one Kim...when it makes you cry." She was such a compassionate and caring person. I'm so sorry for your loss, she will always be watching over you all .
Peter & Patricia DeVillez & family
October 20, 2006
I only met Michelle once and it was at the wedding and reception she photograped in Utopia on October 7th for Ian & Candice Samples the day before her accident. I am the groom's uncle. Michelle was very discreet as a photographer as I never noticed her taking pictures. I met her as we were leaving the reception about 10:00 p.m. She was sitting out on the deck at a table talking to our 4-year-old daughter as I approached. I said to my daughter: "Come on Lily, it is time to go." Michelle said: "I have been sitting here for some time talking to your daughter. She is very articulate and quite charming. I really enjoyed myself this evening." I told her that of our 5 children (Lily being the youngest) Lily was a character. I did not know I was speaking to Michelle until after the accident and someone told me what she was wearing. It was then that I realized I was taking to Michelle. She was very much at peace that evening and was very gracious. Though the meeting was brief, I will remember her always and that she was truly happy being there.
Mystery Noak
October 20, 2006
Michelle,
You gave us the gift of yourself and the beauty you possessed. I feel honored to have been touched by you, your depth, your intelligence, your sense of humor. You lived your life, you left your mark and you will be remembered. Peace. Youre in God's home now.
Beth Chapman
October 20, 2006
Katheryn....I didn't get to meet Michelle, but I feel that her spirit must be incredibly bright. My experience of getting to know your incredibly talented father has been wonderful and I can only imagine the heart and talent of his children. I'm so sorry for your loss....you'll all be in my prayers. Beth Chapman
Ann & Kevin Johnston
October 19, 2006
Dear Kathryn and Dak, I'm very sorry to hear of the loss of your sister. We have her and your family in our prayers.
Jared, Joely & Riley Rodgers
October 19, 2006
We are so sorry for your loss. Michelle will truly be missed. God's Blessings onto you and your entire family. Remember she is in heaven, & will always be looking down,& watching over you all.
Tamara Sorelli
October 19, 2006
Dearest Kathryn,
We wish that we had met Michelle -- our thoughts are with you and your family as you grieve your loss.
Love,Tamara and Leslie
Karen Blizzard
October 19, 2006
Dear Kathryn,
I didn't know Michelle but am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family, and you are very much in my thoughts. I hope that as your friends, Mike and I can help through our love and support.
Dave and Sally Johnston
October 19, 2006
Kathryn,
Sally and I are very sad to hear the news of the death of your sister. We will keep her and you in our prayers.
Phyllis Bohot
October 19, 2006
My heart goes out to you and your family at this time and in the days ahead. Michelle's smile and laughter will be truly missed around the EMS office.
Laura and Greg Clark
October 19, 2006
Kathryn,
I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Jim & Kathy Johnston
October 19, 2006
Dear Kathyrn,
We are so sorry about the loss of your sister Michelle. We will pray for her and your family.
May she rest in peace.
Joe Marshall
October 19, 2006
Michelle is a wonderful person with a glow that went beyond the obvious.
Heaven will be a happier place with Michelle's personality
Mike Elliott
October 19, 2006
Michelle was a volunteer with the Westlake Fire Dept. for many years and her dedication and service to the community is greatly apperciated

Michelle's cousins - taken at Debra's wedding
October 19, 2006
Don Rockwell Coffee
October 18, 2006
I have only known Michelle through McKay and Keith. I know she was loved by many.
Sarah Park
October 18, 2006
Our love goes out to Michelle's family and friends. May you grieve in peace and find comfort.
Mark and Mary Johnston
October 18, 2006
Kathryn, what a tragic loss. After losing a spouse and a brother, I can tell you that with time you will remember the good times and learn to forget the pain that you are experiencing now. I will place your family in our prayers.
Liz Page
October 18, 2006
I did not have the pleasure of knowing Michelle, but knowing her dear sister is enough for me to say that there is a huge hole in our world without Michelle.
I believe Michelle is in a peaceful,beautiful and creative place that is eternal.But she will be missed!
October 18, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.
Roger & Linda (Fredericksburg, TX)
Mary Lang
October 18, 2006
Dearest Michelle, You are a huge part of all of us and you'll live forever. Your spirit is all around us, sweet girl, and this world is a darker place without you. Love you always, your very sad Cousin Mary Louise
Petra Gaitan
October 18, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with Michelle's family. Her loss is felt for miles..... Trini and Petra Gaitan
Tommy Taylor
October 18, 2006
Michelle;
Thanks for 8 wonderful heartfelt and funny years of memories and true friendship. You will be missed but never forgotten. To Kathyrn, Joan, McKay and all others, I pray for your strength and closure knowing that Michelle is looking over all of us.
Helen Nuce
October 18, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Remember love never dies it only changes form.
janet huntoon
October 18, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours during this time of grief.
Margaret Harris
October 18, 2006
Dearest Kathryn,
Michelle is gone from your touch, not your heart. Breathe, breathe, breathe....
holding you, loving you... Margaret
Tracy Garza
October 18, 2006
Michelle, our family will surely miss you. When I told Anthony (our 6 year old), and he said "Mamma! It's okay! Don't cry, she is in heaven with God. We will see her again, remember?!" You were a treasure here on earth and are an angel now looking down on us. You have had a profound impact on my life and we will never forget you. I told you my house would be a gallery for you and it still will. We love you!
Joey, Tracy, and Anthony Garza

Sisters
October 18, 2006
Carl and Peggy Mapes
October 18, 2006
Michelle is present in our hearts and minds and will be sorely missed. We wish to extend support to the entire family and ask that you call upon us anytime.
Les Warren
October 18, 2006
This is so sad. Michelle was such a talented and giving person. She was allready an accomplished artist and held so much potential. I can't even begin to imagine the loss her family and loved ones feel.
Delisa Vaughn
October 18, 2006
I met Michelle this April in Brenham where she took the most amazing pictures of my family. We fell in love with her! I will see her face each time I look at our photos. Her family and friends will be in my heart and prayers.

Michelle won a national award from Wedding Photo Journalists Association for this photograph.
October 18, 2006
Eric Loew
October 18, 2006
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Krista Richards
October 18, 2006
Dear Kathryn and Family,
While I did not have the fortune to meet Michelle, in many ways I feel like I know her through Kathryn's colorful, excited stories of their sisterhood together.
I was saddened to hear of your family's loss; you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Krista
LInda Brunson
October 18, 2006
I met Michelle thru a friend in La Grange, she generously came last Thanksgiving and photographed my family...It was a such a special time with her.....I had talked to her many times and really encourages her because I thought she was so gifted. I am shocked and
grieved....I will pray for your family .
annie mcquade
October 18, 2006
It's so difficult to know what to say. I don't know you. I know you sister well, and she has been a very good friend to me indeed. I love her very much and I know how much she loves you. That alone is enough for me to know how special you must have been.
Dashiel &Geoff Greene
October 18, 2006
michelle had such a beautiful spirit. my family met michelle while she was photographing my cousins wedding and all of us immediately fell in love with her and took her in as one of our own. later in the year she photographed my wedding and she made art out of the people who were there. michelle had a way of making the most normal moment seem like it was the most important. i miss you michelle the angels are lucky to have you now.
Ryan M. Lozano
October 18, 2006
With deepest sympathies for your loss, and hopeful prayers for Chel's fond remembrance.

The best present to a sister.
October 18, 2006

Michelle's laughter
October 18, 2006

Michelle's smile
October 18, 2006

Lafay, Dakota, Kathryn, Michelle, McKay, Keith & Bettie
October 18, 2006

Michelle hugging her sister, Kathryn
October 18, 2006

Dakota, Kathryn & Michelle
October 18, 2006
Steve Von Ruden
October 18, 2006
Otto family,
Althought I did not know Michelle, having worked with Kathryn for the last two years and reading the wonderful words written in this guest book, I can imagine what a wonderful person she became on this journey we all share.
Having experienced the loss of our son Tyler just over a year ago, my family and I can feel your pain. Please accept our deepest sympathies during this horrible time. I wish I could do/say anything that would make a it better, but I know I really can't.
Hoping you find peace during this most difficult time.
Steve Von Ruden
Meris Watson
October 18, 2006
"Ain't no sunshine when she's gone..."
Michelle,
You will be missed. I will never look at the world the same way again. Your joyous spirit, your brilliant smile, your infectious laugh... I know I will experience them again, because I have great memories, and wonderful photos.
You captured lives with your camera, and saved lives with your hands... You shared your spirit, and held nothing back from the world. You lived each day to its fullest, and loved boldly, and without predjudice.
I was blessed to be your friend, I am still blessed to have your memories and your spirit forever in my heart.
You left your cocoon here on Earth, and I know you are beautiful and flying high! Rejoice in the brilliance of your New Life! You are free!
Be at peace my sister...
Love always...
Maggie Welch
October 18, 2006
There was no other cousin quite like myself other than Michelle. I will always miss her and know that family gatherings will never be quite the same without her - laughing and talking about life and love. Her face and smile continue to shine down on me from the clouds and I thank her for teaching me now to never again take advantage of time spent with my loved ones.
With Love,
Cousin Maggie
Brad Walters
October 18, 2006
May God bless this family, and give them peace through this loss. (fellow photographer)

Doing what she loved. Just playing! This was such a fun day for all of us!
October 18, 2006
Brian Chipps
October 18, 2006
Michelle (aka Springfever) you were a good friend for the short time i knew you. though we never met in person i can honestly say you were a good person and very caring. you will be missed. for your family i never met i say i am truly sorry for your loss. i can only imagine the pain you must feel. i only hope in time you can heal and remember the good times. i know she would want everyone to remember her happy times.
harvey and wilbert vorwerk
October 17, 2006
so sorry for your loss. prayers with you.
Jamie Weiss
October 17, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Nicole Smith
October 16, 2006
I am very sorry for you loss. Shell is really something special...
Jason Klank
October 16, 2006
Michelle - I'm speachless....I honestly don't know how to form the words I'm feeling....you and I were close - we could talk about anything and everything...you were one of my best friends....
I loved you as much as a friend could, I felt more like a protective brother to you than anything. I'm so sorry that we didn't become closer before this tragedy happened....
I will be there for you
Love,
Jason
Dianne Quintanilla
October 16, 2006
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Michelle leaves so many sweet memories for me. My name is Dianne Quintanilla, and I am the Clinical Coordinator at Temple College for the EMS Department in which Michelle successfully completed the Paramedic program. She will never be forgotten. May God be with you and your family always.
Anita Volek
October 14, 2006
Dear Kent and Joan,
We happened to call Susan and Rodney as they were on their way to your home last Sunday. We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May the many wonderful memories you treasure help you throught this difficult time.
Dannie and Anita Volek
Stephanie Benold-EMT I
October 14, 2006
I just returned today from a trip out of the country and heard of this tragic loss. I cannot imagine a world without sweet Michelle, who had so many dreams and who loved life so much. Doing her all to save lives by working on a 911 ambulance and also to bring joy to those through her beautiful photography. Michelle was my dear friend and my mentor while I worked at Fayette County EMS. She was a careful, considerate and a great medic. It was an honor to know and to work with her and to encourage her in her photography dream. She made my life richer and I will miss her greatly. My deepest sympathy to her family. I pray your pain will someday be eased.
Tinker Sullivan
October 14, 2006
Joan & Kent: Bob and I want to express our deep sadness to you both. Our family wishes you comfort and wonderful memories of how she brightened your life.
Bobby & Gwenda Deike
October 14, 2006
Kent,
You have always held a special place in our family. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
colorado fayette med. center
October 12, 2006
We will miss you. We all enjoyed working with you so very much. You were kind, compassionate,and funny! You always brightened our spirits.
Jennifer Engel
October 11, 2006
Joan and Family,
Michelle will be truly missed. She was a great friend and I will continue to remember the good times we always shared going two stepping together in high school, along with many other things. Ya'll are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ellen & Alexis Artigas
October 11, 2006
Michelle was such a sweet and pretty girl, I had the pleasure of knowing her through my daughter Alexis. They were friends at Westlake H.S, rode together at Westbridge, and together made the cutest video project for school about Stephen F. Austin. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Alexis and Ellen Artigas
Karen Parker
October 11, 2006
McKay and Joan,
My circle and I continue to lift you and your entire family up in thought, prayer, and meditation. May you all find comfort in the knowledge that one of your angels is set free.
Marilyn Meyer
October 11, 2006
Kent and Joan,
Please know that Andy and I send you our most sincere and loving prayer of comfort and peace.
Jamie, Carrie (Craft), Brittani, Brianna, Bayleigh, & Hannah Hill
October 11, 2006
I was so lucky to have known Michelle for the short three years that we have become friends. Along with my sister in law & niece, she captured her first photos that we will forever cherish. I not only shared the photography dream with her but also the medical dream with her too. She was such a blessing and inspiration to me, during my years in college as I was pursuing my nursing career. I remember the day I worked side by side with her. That will always be remembered. Michelle, you were such a great and loving friend. I thank you for that. You will be forever my angel watching and guiding me thru each day. My heart goes out to her family and her world of friends. She will truely be missed. Love your friends in Tennessee.
Brenda Cloud
October 11, 2006
McKay & Keith, Joan & Kent;
I am so sorry for your loss. I had not met Michelle in person, but we spoke on the phone several times over the past couple of months. She was so warm and personable I just couldn't help but love her. I am going to miss getting to know her. Her talent was truly God given. Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ashleigh Cloud
October 11, 2006
I feel blessed to have met Michelle when I did. I just wish that we could have had more time to get to know each other. My thoughts and prayers are with Michelle and the family. God bless.
Julie Eskoff
October 11, 2006
Michelle, thank you for being a kind, lively, and creative gal. John Fortune and I have talked and remembered you many times after we met at the Watterson Ranch. We love your family and the land you came from. We both will carry your photographic genius close to our hearts as we continue to pick up our cameras and catch moments of beauty and greatness you knew so well. I send every blessing I have to Joan and Kent and will think of you when the red poppies come up by the Eagle's Nest at the 9E. Fly high Michelle, we will miss you.
Gordon & Renita Feller
October 11, 2006
Joan and Kent, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. The angels of heaven received a woker of God's will with an eye for beauty. Blessings.
Eric Pumphret
October 11, 2006
Michelle, Since the first day I met you while we were working at Austin Aqua Festival, I knew you were destined for great things in EMS. You were taken from us too soon, but I know you are doing good things in heaven. You are a great and compassionate person and you will be deeply missed. My deepest prayers to her family. God Bless.
Lynda Breland
October 10, 2006
McKay & Keith, Joan & Kent:
I know words can't soften the loss you are feeling now...But please know that my thoughts, prayers and love are with you all. Michelle's photos will become her legacy... She captured moments in people's lives, and told stories with her photography. She truely was an amazing young lady.
Babs Chandrasoma
October 10, 2006
Dear Joan, Kent and Family,
Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Kent and Joan, you have given so much to others we can only hope to be a source of strength for you during this tragic time.
God bless,
Babs,Mihira,Brittni,Colby and Meg
Melinda, Chris & RaeLynn McCoy
October 10, 2006
Michelle inspired me through her photography and taught me a lot. She always encourged me and kept me going in my dream. I will miss her dearly. My heart goes out to her family. God Bless.
Nancy Alfs
October 10, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Craig and Kerri Sturm
October 10, 2006
Kent and Joan,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God's love surround and comfort your family.
Dick and Nancie Rain
October 10, 2006
Joan and Kent,
We are so sorry for your loss. We remember Michelle as such as happy little girl. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Janice and Al Mouton
October 10, 2006
Kent and Joan,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I know God will be a source of strength for the both of you.
Shannon Smith
October 10, 2006
peace to you and thank you for the time we spent together..
April and Larry Ohnheiser
October 10, 2006
My husband and I both worked with Michelle in Fayette County him as a Deputy and I as a Dispatcher. She was always in such a good mood that no matter what kind of day you were having she always seemed to make you laugh. May God watch over you and your family during this time and know you we will see her again some day.
Tammy Mercado
October 10, 2006
Michelle had a big heart, and I am thankful that I had the chance to know her. You're in my prayers. GOD BLESS
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