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Kenneth Vanderwall Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Vanderwall
Mrs. Shields
September 4, 2024
I´m thinking of Kenny and his excitement about learning new things in 1st and 2nd grade. At this time I am in Alaska and engaged in presentations about their major sport, the. Iditarod. Kenny loved following the Mushers and their travels.
He is remembered for his enthusiasm and smile. NEVER to be forgotten. Mrs. Shields
Grade 1/2 Teacher and Family Friend
Terijo Shields
September 25, 2023
When I reflect on Kenny's life I believe many who knew him during his walk on earth would agree the following words are fitting:
If I had a star for every time I thought of you, I would be holding the night sky in my hand.
His kindness, wit, attention to friendship, and of course his smile are remembered by many.
Mrs. Shields
Kenny's First and Second Grade Teacher
Terijo Shields
September 4, 2022
Kenny loved learning. When in my first/second grade classroom he was so animated about the Iditarod race that we tracked each winter. It was always a joy interacting with Kenny as his attitude toward learning was full of heart and exuberance.
Never to be forgotten...
In Friendship,
Mrs. Shields
Mrs. Terijo Shields
September 6, 2021
His smile was contagious and his big heart resonated with kindness. He may not have walked on this earth for a vast period of time but he touched many through the living memories that exist now and into the future in both their minds and hearts.
The words "Never to be Forgotten" ring true today in 2021 as they did at his passing in 2008.
Terijo Shields
September 4, 2020
Kenny’s vibrant smile could light up a room. How fortunate was I, as his first and second grade teacher, to celebrate the beginnings of his journey during his walk on earth. I always called my students “My Pups” and Kenny was a peppy, loving, engaged pup
that was for sure.
Through the years I have continued a steadfast friendship with his beloved brother Eric and cherished Mom Cathy.
There is no doubt you are missed
Kenny but NEVER forgotten by those who had the joy of being a part of your life.
Mrs. Shields
Jayme Mullins
September 24, 2008
Dear Kenny's family and friends,
Kenny was a great friend to my heart through out middle school, the seperation of highshool drew us apart from our friendship but he is always in memories as a loving, kind person. He was a beautiful person inside and out. . and nothing less. I wish family and friends the best, the world lost an amazing person.
Love, Buffy
September 19, 2008
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Krista & Tom Marchand
September 18, 2008
Peter and Kathleen, Cathy and Jeff, Eric and also Jane, you have all been in my thoughts lately. Such sad and unbelievable news about the loss of Kenny. I will always smile and remember all the family pictures under the apple tree or in assorted back yards. Life is just so fragile. God bless you, especially at this difficult time.
Gary & Linda Bouchard
September 17, 2008
Dear Pete & Family,
I still can't believe Kenny is gone but from knowing him, I'm sure he's in a very good place. I keep seeing his smile in my mind's eye as he pesters me about life in Los Angeles. We watched him almost like clockwork, once a year seeing how much he had grown since the last time we saw him, from a young teenager to as tall as I am with size um-teen feet going off to college. He was truly one of the 'good ones'. Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys and don't hesitate to let us know if there's anything you need.
Gary & Linda (aka Mr. & Mrs. G-Slice)
Angie Blanshan
September 16, 2008
My sincere sympathies to the Quinn and Vanderwall families. Cathy, you are such an inspiration to me. I pray for you and your family during this difficult time. Please let me know if there is any that I can do for you.
Kathy LaShier
September 16, 2008
To Cathy-my dearest friend, Katie. I am sure I am the only person who calls you Katie. I wish I could help you get through this. I wish I could find words that make some sense. I wish I was closer. I got such an empty feeling when I heard the very sad news. I think about you and your family every day. May thoughts and prayers help to console you and may you find strength in your memories to get through the days to come. I hope that we can find time to talk when you are ready to do so. Love, Kathy
Jim & Sharon
September 16, 2008
We saw the optimism and excitement in Kenny as he prepared to start college at the University of San Francisco. His sudden loss is a blow. He will be missed. Please know that we are here for you.
Wendy Berendes-Petrochko
September 16, 2008
Dear Pete and Family,
There are no words that I can write to take away the deep sadness you feel. I do know that the comfort I received from my early losses has given me the ability to comfort others. I pray that those people will come along your side to comfort you during this painful journey.
Praying God's comfort for each of you,
Susan Spencer
September 15, 2008
Dia duit, Cathy:
I was horrified to hear of the loss of your beloved son, Kenny, and I am so very sorry for your unimaginable loss.
When you visited my new shop in Newport this summer, I could just feel the admiration and love you felt, as you described your excitement at the prospect of spending a vacation in Ireland with Kenny and Eric.
When I think of the first time I met your boys, your birthday celebration at our first Friday ceili, I recall with a smile all your "men" surrounding you on the dance floor to celebrate your birthday in the midst of the rest of the Irish dancers--a lovely evening and a precious memory.
At this moment, however, I find that my mind just cannot begin to grasp the depth of your loss, for I have an 18-year-old of my own, who will be attending college this fall--there but for fortune go you and I.
You are in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers, Cathy. May God bless you and keep you until you are ready and able to resume life.
Siochain,
The Lindholms
September 15, 2008
We've poured heart and soul into our young champions. To see one fall leaves us stunned and heartbroken. We love you and will cherish our memories of Kenny forever.
Carolyn Clontz
September 15, 2008
Kathleen and family,
Kenny must have been a joy to your hearts and it is very tragic that he has passed away. I am so sorry to hear this and hope that you can find comfort in your family and friends at this terribly difficult time.
Leslie and Bob Phillips
September 15, 2008
With deep sadness in our hearts we send our thoughts and prayers. Kenny was as colorful as his shoes. A man that "talks" his walk!
Chuck Burleigh
September 15, 2008
My heart and prayers go out to your family at this very sad and difficult time. Kenny was a wonderful young man who brought a lot of joy to many peoples lives. The world is a little less beautiful place without him. He will be missed.
Ryan Cunningham
September 15, 2008
I didn't know Kenny, but from everything I've read here it's obvious that he was an extraordinary young man who will be dearly missed. Pete and Kathleen, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lynn and Trudy Mitchell
September 15, 2008
We are so sad and overwhelmed to hear this tragic news. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Cheryl Kleckner
September 15, 2008
Words cannot express the sadness that I feel for the loss of Kenny. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in the love of your family and friends and the wonderful memories of Kenny.
Laura Matthews
September 15, 2008
Cathy and family,
Words cannot express the sadness I feel in my heart for you at this difficut time. May you take comfort in knowing that others deeply care and are praying for all of you. May God Bless you and guide you through the days ahead.
Karen, Doug & Brian Richards
September 14, 2008
We are so saddened by Kenny's passing and the deep pain and loss you all are feeling. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as is Kenny. Be at peace.
Ashley Porter
September 14, 2008
Kenny we all loved you very much and you were a light in everyone's eye! you helped alot of people through tough times just even by saying hello.I'm greatful to have spent all four years with you at Sprague and working with you at Padingtons. we all miss you kenster and your HUGE smile will never be forgotten!!!
Michael Neal
September 14, 2008
We are terribly sorry to hear about this tragic loss. It sounds like this was a fine young man.
Michael Neal & Susan Chase
Kathleen Vanderwall
September 13, 2008
Kenny: You were a light in my life. You were one of the handsome and brilliant Vanderwall Men. You saved me several years ago in my ski accident, you gave me great advice, and you were my friend. You were completely (and appropriately) irreverent, suffered no fools, and completely liberal. Thanks for letting me share plans and feelings with you. You were always there for me. You are in a great place beyond what we know on Earth. But back on Earth, I miss you and will always hold your memory in my heart. You believed so in your future -- living to 83, your son, your career as a physician, your service in the armed forces -- that I saw it in my mind even though it didn't get to become reality as we know it on Earth. Your loving step mom, Kathleen Heide Vanderwall
Ed Heide
September 13, 2008
I'm really sorry for your loss, he will be missed.
David Olsen
September 13, 2008
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you
Cindy Heide
September 13, 2008
This is a loss for everyone who knew Kenny. His personality and smile touched anyone who came in contact with him. We will miss him.
Cindy and Erica Heide
David Boyd
September 12, 2008
I met Kenny only 3 weeks ago when we took our son Jackson (also a freshman in Kenny's dorm) to USF. We didn't know Kenny long, but I knew from the time we spent with him that he had a vibrant, cheerful and colorful personality. I will always remember his warm and friendly smile. I am grateful to have met this fine young man. He has positively impacted the lives of many at USF.
My prayers are with Kenny's family and friends.
Craig, Lisa & Michael Snively
September 12, 2008
We are so very sorry to hear about Kenny. Our deepest sympathy goes out to both the Quinn and Vanderwall families. We hope the memories you have of him will help you through this very difficult time.
Amy Marx
September 12, 2008
Hello, Pete, I am so sorry for your loss. I do not know what to say. I am at a loss for words. Please know that God is looking over your families.
Take Care,
Amy Marx
Darcy French
September 12, 2008
I can’t find the words to tell you how sad I feel for you. Having seen your boys from elementary through high school as they grew up with my daughters, I cannot imagine how you must feel.
Our most sincere condolences to you and your family and friends.
Greg & Darcy French
Stephanie, Katie, & Kristie Waldroop
Judy & Jon Hathaway
September 12, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Lucinda Tatman
September 12, 2008
Cathy and family, My deepest symapthy during your time of loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Cathy please know I am here for you. Love, Luicnda
Donal Godfrey
September 12, 2008
Kenny made a huge difference - even in the all too short two weeks we had with him here at the University of San Francisco. His 3rd floor friends in Hayes-Healy hall especially all miss him terribly as a friend shared with me only last night.
So many were touched by Kenny's warm open and engaging personality. Even Fr Stephen Privett S.J. our President remembered meeting him on Welcome Day and the Welcome Mass. At our 9 pm Student Mass last Sunday we remembered Kenny, his family and friends most especially in our prayers.
My deepest condolences.
Donal
(Fr. Donal Godfrey, S.J.)
Becky Ruppert
September 12, 2008
My sincere sympathies to the Quinn and Vanderwall families. Kenny was a wonderful young man and his presence will be truly missed. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Brian Sipe
September 12, 2008
kenny had an effect on everyone - he always had the ability to make me smile and laugh as well as everyone else around him. when you saw his smile, you couldnt help but to smile yourself! my favorite memory of kenny was the first time i was invited to his place for a poker night - he got me laughing so hard i spit my drink and was rolling on the floor just in absolute laughter! I had never laughed so hard in my life! no matter what was going on, i was always glad to be around you, your sense of peace and happiness inspires me still today. ill miss you kenny
Debi and Dale Penn
September 12, 2008
We are so sad to hear of your loss.
Our thoughts are with you.
Lou Anne Unruh
September 12, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lou Anne Unruh
September 12, 2008
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.
Lou Anne Unruh
September 12, 2008
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.
Bill Walker
September 12, 2008
Our condolences to the Vanderwalls and Quinns. We have many fond memories of times spent together as Ken was growing up.
Erin Capostagno
September 11, 2008
Revelation 21:4 KJV
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away .
Forever you will be in my heart and I think of you daily. For everyday that I had with you, for every moment, I thank the Lord for making you a part of my life. There are no words to describe the sadness this brings our family. Love to you always Kenny.
Love,
your cousin Erin
Bob & Cathy Clark
September 11, 2008
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every member of your family. Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
Assessment Staff at ODE
September 11, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. We enjoyed the time we got to spend with Kenny.
Rob & Cindy Bell
September 11, 2008
We will always remember Kenny's smile. He was always smiling. I coached Kenny in Little League for many years and he was always having fun and fun to be with. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Sylvia Wilson
September 10, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I know that this is a very hard time for all of you but if you need anything call and we will try to help. Your all in our prayers. Kenny was a great kid and touched many lives.
The Wilsons': Sylvia, Dan, Dane
Robin Speer
September 10, 2008
The Speer family send our condolences to the Vanderwall family. Our German exchange student, Andi Maier, wrote today that he is sad about the news of Kenny and remembers his friendship when he was in school at Sprague during 2006-07. He also sends his condolences from Germany.
--Joe and Robin Speer (Daniel and Peter)
Teri Jo Shields
September 10, 2008
From the moment Kenny walked across the threshhold of my classroom in First Grade he immediately became one of the wonderful children in my extended family. His incredible smile will long be remembered.
Positive thoughts and prayers are sent to Kenny's supportive family during this incredibly difficult time.
Mrs. Shields (Salem, Oregon)
Kim Cardwell
September 10, 2008
I am so sorry. So very sad.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Cathy. You often spoke highly of your boys and I know how much you loved Kenny. You are such a great person and awesome mother. May God Bless you and your family at this time and in the future.
Ronald McCauley
September 10, 2008
I just got this very sorrowful news. I remember a few fishing trips and some morning pancakes. Plus, sneaking you some cookies and soda of which your Dad mildly dissaproved. My best thoughts are going to you and your family.
Ron McCauley
Judy Klassen
September 10, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Samantha Demchak
September 10, 2008
You will be missed by more people than you can imagine. Love to your family and those who loved you
Lori McCauley
September 10, 2008
Our family is thinking of you during this difficult time. Lori, Tyler and Mike.
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