Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Kela Carbone Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kela Carbone
Sponsored by Judy Canque Pritchard.
Len Canque Koontz
December 10, 2024
It' been twenty years today that you left this earth, but I know your spirit still lives, as I sometimes call on you for aide. Thank you for being our angel, Kela. I love you. Auntie Len
dj sloan
December 21, 2019
12-Dec-04, Dear Judy (& all) ..
Neither the miles that separate us nor the years away lessen my sadness and grief at your loss.
My memories of Kela are like old Kodachromes now, warmed and softened with time, stored and moved so often that I find them as fragments in disarray; recalled these past few months like treasures, and re-told to my own children:
A toddler, cocooned in her winter wraps, letting go her mother's hand to lie face up on the snow, wide-eyed with curiosity, surprise, and wonder.
A young father dressed in blue jeans, shirtless, lips holding a lit cigarette at the left corner of his mouth, 10 oz. bottle of Coca Cola in his right hand, moves his left hand in a motion that conveys his plans for some pieces of plywood. Deep in an interior corner of his project, well out of the way, but close enough to watch everything he does, a tiny girl mirrors the motion.
A little girl and the dog she loved and who loved her running on their field of green, chasing each other, hair and fur catching the wind and their motion until they tire and reach out to touch one another - hand to fur, tongue to cheek.
To you, those you love, and all who loved Kela we offer our heartfelt condolences and thoughts of hope.
As ever, DJ & RH Sloan (Houston)
pacita canque
July 17, 2011
remembering kela who would have been 40 yrs old today
the listing of her age on this site is the present age
though she died at the age of 33
dec. 2004
thoughts and prayers esp on this day
aloha
pacita canque
July 11, 2011
2011
july 17th kela would have been 40
memories continue
giraffes last seen when i sent to the academy of science in san franciso
MM;s always present in candy stores and am at one at least once a week
shopping
trips to hawaii
huge scuptures of hearts in s.f.
i was at union square last week and four new ones there, kela enjoyed all the sculptures the year there were celebrating hearts and many along market street and the ferry building area, we managed to see almost all of them, maybe i will learn how to post some pictures.
family reunions
cousins growing up so fast
you will not be forgotten by me, my only niece
am grateful to have been part of your life and watched you grow up
god bless you
aloha, aunty t
Len Koontz
July 8, 2011
Kela,
You will be forty on the 17th. Thank you for being our special angel. I know that you have been with me, anytime I ask. And most recently, reminding me of your presence as the special bird. You and the other angels. Thank you for blessings you send to us.
By the way, Sabrah still remembers you and as she said on the day of your memorial when she asked your mom and I where you were, and we told her you were in heaven, she replied that you were shopping there.
And Auntie Ti, your mom and I, saw the owl in SF when we were having dinner at our favorite restaurant that summer, and heard the owl in her courtyard the next morning. Thanks for letting us know you are with us.
aloha,auntie len
Mary Teague
July 1, 2011
Always thinking of Kela. Yesterday it was the big M&M store in NY. The other day it was about how much we liked Pagliacci pizza. Tomorrow, it will be something else. Memories keep me going.
pacita canque
May 22, 2011
remembering kela
aunty t
July 20, 2009
this is the month of kela's birthday, july on the 17th i did talk with judy in rememebrance'
i continue to have many good memories of kela. her mom and i speak of her often and there are many momentos and pictures of her in her mom's new home in lacey. washington. i see noelani's note and it is touching to see it. kela enjoyed her niece, noelani and her nephew jack.
the years are going by so fast,here to building many good memories with family.
aloha, aunty t
Noelani Pritchard
July 17, 2009
Dad reminded me that today was my Auntie Kela`s thirty-eighth birthday. She always had me and Jack come over to see her. One thing I remember her most for is her Easter bunny cakes. She will always be in my memories.
-Noelani
pacita canque
December 5, 2007
for dec 10th 2007
as this will be kela' anniversary of her death in 2004 i will say she is always be remembered by me,esp. during our family gatherings, even though her mom and aunties live apart we get together often, if not four of us, may be three or two, this year ,during the summer, four of us and families met in eugene, ore for a family reunion and this past thanksgiving we were all in lacey, wash. celebrating the holiday. kela always enjoyed the family gatherings and planned picture taking by professionals, not eagerly accepted by all but i am glad she did.
good memories of kela and families'
love, aunty t
san francisco
Stephanie Kay-Fredrickson
October 25, 2007
On November 3rd, we will be working on a mural in Kela's memory from 10-2 at Grant Center for the Expressive Arts in Tacoma. Fifth grade students, the class that had Kela when she passed away, will be working on the mural. Eileen Newton's, our Art teacher, husband will be working on the bench during this time as well, woodburning giraffes on a gorgeous bench that Sue Grote's (first grade teacher) husband created from scratch with his Enrichment students after school last Spring. As you can read it's been a TEAM EFFORT! Please feel free to stop by on the 3rd to help put some strokes on the mural or just to visit! Please let me know if you have any questions! I will post pictures soon. :)
Lisa Koontz
August 23, 2007
I did not know Kela very long, at least not compared to how many years the rest of the family has known her. I am the newist member, having married in even since her death. But Kela had a profound influence on me as she welcomed me in and helped me feel right at home with this wonderful group of strangers I now call in-laws.
Family gatherings and reunions with someone else's group is always a little awkward, at least at first. But I will never forget how even on that first day of my first Canque family reunion, Kela came right up to me, eager to meet and greet this new girl her cousin Kyle had finally brought to a family gathering. She shared stories with me of family doubts about Kyle's love life, and then on a trip to the grocery store she surprised me and began to share openly about her kidney disease and dialysis. She said she does not usually talk about it with people until she knows them well, but Kyle had obviously informed me about some general family history, and then she said it was because I was a nurse, and was not in the least squemish about such things, that she felt comfortable talking to me about some of the details. From that moment on I felt a bond and a connection with Kela.
Another time Kyle and I even traveled up to her and Curt's home to spend some time with them. I remember on our final day together we stayed much later into the evening than we had planned with the excuse of having to finish a puzzle we had started, but the truth of the matter is, I think Kela and I were very much enoying the chance to visit with eachother a little longer.
Kela's open welcome of me into the family helped spread into comfort with the rest of the family as well. They are a wonderful bunch of people that I am honored to now be related to. But it has been two and a half years since Kela's passing and yet I still find myself excited by the hope of, and then disappointed by the truth of, the reality that she will not be at any more of these get togethers. I miss my new but dear friend.
I find myself excited to do things that have a trace of a Kela memory in them. For example, I think Kela would have really enjoyed the party at Kyle and my wedding. And I think she would be pleased that we are expecting our first child. And I think there is a part of me that choose the jungle theme for our baby's nursery so that I would have an excuse to buy some giraffes.
Life is good. But Kela, know that you are missed and I hope to see you soon. -- Lisa
p canque
July 17, 2007
july 7.2007
today would have been kela.s 34 birthday and judy and i are in hawaii;
we did some of here favorite things went to hale koa in waikiki, ate at the koko cafe and enjoying the view pf waikiki beach, shopped at the post exchange, then to ala moana shopping center, had sushi so ono,in kaneohe
it is hot and muggy but a very hawaiian day.
many fun memories of kela including the times she spent in hawaii
aunty t alooooooooooooooooha
Kyle Koontz
April 24, 2007
Like Kela and many of the other members of my family, I am a teacher. I am on my way to becoming a teacher, anyway. I am finishing up school this year, and they tell me that when I finish, I will be qualified to teach. Wow.
As part of my education, I spend time in the classroom helping students, teaching a work sample, and generally hanging around and helping the cooperating teacher with his classes. I also like to watch other teachers at work, so the other day, I wandered across the hallway to the study hall. Here, students of differing ability levels get help with their schoolwork. It is pretty relaxed. There are even two tables where students diligently put together puzzles.
The teacher brings in puzzles for students to put together. Hard ones and easy ones. 100 pieces and 1000 pieces. Some new and some used, some from the dollar store and others more expensive. Some come from garage sales. You can tell those ones because some of the pieces are often missing. The puzzle on one of the tables was completely assembled except for four missing pieces. It was from a garage sale. Naturally, I thought of my cousin Kela.
I didn’t think of Kela because the puzzle was from a garage sale. I thought of her because it was missing pieces. If you didn’t know, Kela liked to put puzzles together. I remember many family gatherings where cousins and aunts worked late talking and puzzling. We would delegate duties. First, the border was completed. Then, all pieces of one color go to this person, all pieces with letters to that person. Give all the hard ones, like the blue sky, to Auntie Judy. We would work late, chatting and sorting, trying and fitting. Generally, we all wanted to finish. And whoever finished the puzzle by inserting the last piece would certainly be honored. That was often Kela. It was more than often, because she guaranteed it. She guaranteed it earlier in the evening by hiding a piece. When we caught on, she would fess up and give up the piece. One of the pieces, anyway. When we caught on, she had to hide more than one piece. That way, she could give one up as well as have the last piece.
Kela was funny. The last piece of the puzzle. The Coca-Cola habit (which she kicked). The Giraffes. The calligraphy. The amount of time between the scheduled beginning of an event and the time Kela showed up. What a character. I have nothing but fond memories.
Kelly Wheeler
February 15, 2007
As I sit and ponder what to do with my recent windfall of money, I ask myself what do I need, what do I want. Kela whispers in my ear “Trust yourself.” Maybe what I want is what I need. A trip… a get away… with that a memory of Kela weaves itself back into my mind…
Kela was going to be thirty. She really had talked about that birthday being significant. Already in March, she had thrown me my own surprise party at Red Robin, one of our most favorite haunts… ½ price appetizers. On our “First Sunday” there I heard about life and this guy named Kurt who she thought was really cute. I also heard about her family and how teaching going and having to move schools yet another year.
The pressure was on me that year to make her birthday just as special as she had made mine. If anything holidays and birthday parties were Kela’s favorite; treats were made, parties were had, and love was shared. What was I going to do to surprise the party queen? Then an idea hit. Kela loved puzzles and always had one going on much to Kurt’s dismay at times. She also loved games, so I had it. I would send her on a scavenger hunt all over Tacoma that would eventually lead to Mexican Food in Puyallup, another favorite of Kela’s… chips and salsa. I remember setting the ground rules that she needed to pack clothes for an overnight stay with a variety of clothing because we would be outdoors for some of our time. The beginning is hazy, and I don’t know where the puzzle pieces are now. I know she didn’t throw them away. Perhaps they are in one her many scrapbooks that her mom, Judy, or Kurt has. I am pretty sure she got a piece at home with a riddle that sent her to St. Joseph’s and the dialysis room in which she spent so many hours. From there I sent her to the Almond Roca Outlet in downtown Tacoma. Kela always had candy on hand. I never figured out why she had so much since she never really ate it, but perhaps it was a collection of sorts much like her giraffes. From Almond Roca I sent her to Mazallan in Puyallup where I met her. There she got her final puzzle piece. That totals five, so I don’t know what one I’m missing since I am pretty sure there were six.
Anyway by the time she made it to the Mexican restaurant she was a bit excited but also a bit worried because she had sensed we would be in the great outdoor, a place in which Kela did not like to spend large amounts of quality time especially in a tent! Well, it wasn’t just any tent; it was a cabin tent complete with a huge stove, breakfast table, and a feather bed. I told her we’d be going to Wellspring up on Mt. Rainer.
The drive, well let’s say Kela tried my patience and I hers. I wanted to drive with the windows down and let the summer air blow through our hair… uh oh a no ho for Kela. She wanted the air conditioning because she didn’t like her hair playing around: still I was driving. We had to stop and buy, yes buy a bandana for Kela’s head so her hair would not get messed up. I thought I was a girly girl. I guess it was a compromise since we were both being stubborn.
We drove on up to Wellspring and deposited our things. The rest of the stay I just remember bits and pieces: having dinner at a restaurant with a waterfall in front, hiking a bit on Mt. Rainer, taking pictures, staying in the tent, and having to walk down a pathway to use our own private bathroom. Boy it was cold at night even in July.
Observations: Kela snored louder than a banshee. I don’t know how Kurt managed all these years unless he snored louder than her.
I always know Kela was late for things (sometimes up to 45 minutes or an hour!), but I never knew why… now I know. She was quite meticulous in her routines for everything she did. It all had to be just so and in this order. Man that made her a bathroom hog! Again I admire Kurt or at least the fact that he and Kela had more than one bathroom.
Honestly, by the end of the trip (a whole 24 hrs) I was ready to kill her. I asked myself, did I really know this strange creature that had to have things her way? I’m pretty structured myself but often conceded to Kela’s want/need to do whatever on our First Sundays. By the end of the trip, however, I wanted to have some thing my way too!
While Kela was going through her million hour morning ritual, (yes a hyperbole) I decided to go walking, and at Wellspring they had a meditational walk where you walk in a spiral that gets smaller and smaller until you reach the middle. Then you spiral back out. As I walked around and around, I fumed about how this had been a disaster on my part... all this planning for fun, and I wasn’t having the time of my life. AS I continued around and around, I realized it wasn’t about me. This was a pretty big trip in that we planned around Kela’s dialysis, which seemed to put a crimp into anything she ever wanted to do. I realized how tethered she was to that procedure. I realized that her routines are what gave her structure with a disease that was unpredictable yet predictable. I realized that she had tried something new outside of her comfort zone. I realized that I was being selfish too! By the time I had unwound out of the spiral, I was feeling much better. I realized that there are things and issues greater than myself. I guess, looking back, I realized a bit of my own humanity. That of course is looking back, at the time I felt that I had just composed myself enough to make it through the ride home with her without strangling her with my bare hands!
Now I tell this story not to point out the annoying things Kela did, but to show you a glimpse of how complex and wonderful she truly was and how blessed I was to have someone in my life who gave me an appreciation for my own life. I miss our First Sundays where she was my cheerleader, telling me what I needed to do or having me try something new whether it be painting ceramics or taking in some artistic display. She is why I now have season tickets to the Seattle Repertory Theater and treat my friends to a night out with me. She is why I joined Washington Dragon Boat Association and have made so many new and wonderful friends. I miss her so much and feel guilty when I haven’t thought of her for a month. Does that mean I’ve lost her? Yet I hear her whispers of encouragement when I doubt myself or am afraid to try something new. I cry now as I write these words because I realize when she died, a part of me died to, and I haven’t figured out how to get it back.
When I started this piece I said maybe that what I wanted was what I needed. I want the old Kelly back who was thoughtful, who could relax every once in awhile, who enjoyed being Kelly. This is why Judy and Kela will be sending me away… maybe to Wellspring or maybe to the beach… a place where I can stop and collect myself and who I am. A place to find more of my humanity that I once had.
Scott Lawton
January 16, 2007
Being the only girl cousin our family had, Kela was very special. I came to understand how special as I got to know her. I first met her while she was recieving a treatment at St. Francis in Waipahu. Not the best of circumstances to get introduced to your cousin, but we talked like we had known each other for years.
Kela always had a plan, and she had a way of making it happen. We don't have a "planner" like her to lead us to where we should be going. I guess we could always try and look at things from her perspective and say; "what would Kela do?" She would ensure that we had fun and we did what should be done.
Just reading all these entries shows how special Kela was to so many people in so many different ways. I'm fortunate that I was a part of her life, because knowing her made my life better. She taught me to focus on the positive even though life may have provided you with some "bumps" here and there. She didn't know she taught me that lesson, but it was a lesson learned from her example.
My family now lives on Kelakela Street, so we'll always have thoughts of her in our hearts and minds. We miss you.
genie liddell
December 30, 2006
For Judy. I continue to feel an ache whenever I go by Tacoma and see the
hospital. Then I remember your courage and our regular visits together picking you up at the hospital (usually urged by Kela to go and shop or something) and taking you to Gig Harbor for your personal
errands/soup;/back to hospital with Kela usually upbeat.
This very cold winter has been a dreary one, but your courage and
positive manner continue to inspire me, Judy. Kela brought much to our
family and we miss her.
Keep up your spirit as you inspire many around you. Love, Geni
Paulette Canque Koontz
December 10, 2006
Thank you for being my (our) angel, Kela. I think of you often and especially when I see a giraffe. Often it's unexpected and it always reminds me of you. I miss you but I know you are here in spirit, watching over us. I know you hear my prayers when I call on you. Thank you for being part of our lives.
with love and affection, auntie len
aunty t canque
December 10, 2006
today,dec 10,kela's anniversay of 2 yrs. seems like so long ago,but then again seems like it never happened,her untimely passing
i think of her often and have many reminders of her in san francisco
she loved visiting and we loved doing the town,shopping, eating out, and being tourists, riding the cable car,etc
her last visit here was the summer of 2004, her road trip here and we
had fun looking and finding many of the heart scuptures that were being exhibited in different parts of the city.
i am glad she loved visiting san francisco and i was happy to share the love of the city with her, as well as when we went to hawaii and visited with mom/grandma
with many fond memories
aloha,aunty t.
Stephanie Kay-Fredrickson
July 17, 2006
It's your birthday today! I remember you had that BBQ at your house and didn't tell anyone it was your birthday and everyone felt so bad for not bringing you a gift! All I had brought was Karah so I gave you her... and from that moment on, you called her your baby-- and she called you her "E-Ma", Auntie Mommy-- you decided that name would be best and least confusing for her!! While you were in the hospital, I told you that you couldn't go away because I can't raise her by myself (You know how Kela ALWAYS came up wtih ideas you'd NEVER think of!)!! You simply stated that you'd always be around and I'd know it....... and it's true. Thank you. I still think about you every day and miss you terribly. Happy 35th Bday!
Cathryn Carini
June 21, 2006
Dear Kela, You were a wonderful person to know. You never complained and always had a smile on your face. I will always remember your special toasted cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. I am sure you were laughing hysterically as staff members tried to make them and inadvertantly burnt both. My fifth graders who had you, miss you terribly. You were one of their favorites.Now every time I see a giraffe or make toasted cheese I think of you. You will forever be in all our hearts. I hope we at Grant will do you proud by being kind, thoughtful, unselfish in this harried world and take a moment to enjoy life the way you did. God bless you always. Love Cathy Carini
aunty t canque
June 21, 2006
i often think of kela and more so, when the memorial was made at grant school, i did visited there once and saw kela's classroom and the little red wagon outside the door and the giraffe flag.
i was unable to attend the memorial, glad to read the thoughts of the day from here friends, i am grateful for the sharing the events.
aloha, aunty t
Analis Adele Rivasplata Newton
June 17, 2006
I always will remember Mrs.carbone as the greatest penmanship teacher you could ever have.Because she was always giving out papers so we could work on our handwriting.
Mrs.carbone loved giraffes.
Every time I saw a giraffe for the longest time after her death I would remember her and start to cry.(My mom bought me a giraffe christmast tree ornament so I could remember her.)After she died we had a new teacher right? Well the new teacher is really nice so, for valentines day we played horseshoes with a blown up (infladible)giraffe as the stick.
Being in Mrs.carbones class was great! Former stuent,
Analis Adele Rivasplata newton
eileen newton
June 17, 2006
School is out for the year, (our first year without you physically here,)and though we made it through, you were sorely missed. Many times I know that you heard us talking about memories of you in the staff room, or watched us in our rooms as we, alone and reflective, discovered something that you had made for us. Many times our thoughts went to you as we thanked you for your time here with us.
Your creative spirit will be honored annually with a second-grade award for an outstanding student. I know you appreciate that idea. Your memory is also the inspiration for a memorial bench that was designed last year and will be made during the summer months. It's beauty and comfort will allow friendly conversations, something that I know you will enjoy seeing!
You touched and continue to touch our hearts. Thank you friend.
Eileen Newton, art teacher
Stephanie Kay-Fredrickson
June 17, 2006
The first annual "Carbone Style" Award was given this year in Kela's honor at Grant. I was fortunate to have Vicky's help in finding just the right plaque and making the certificate. The recipient this year was Luiza Hicker, a very sweet and talented student. The staff members at Grant decided on traits that exemplified Kela and those were the traits that we looked for in an outstanding second grader (since this was the grade she taught): artistic, active in community/school, impeccable behavior and if possible, good penmanship.
Auntie Gene came in and helped present the award and brought lots of wonderful surprises for Luiza from Kela's other aunties. It was amazing and so special! Auntie Gene also made a generous donation to the Memorial Fund to keep the award going! Judy and Curt were still in school so they couldn't come... but there weren't many dry eyes in the assembly! We all still remember, love and miss her greatly.
Kela's Memorial Committee at Grant is also working on a bench over the summer with her "For the Love of Art" logo on it in mosaic. John Grote, husband to staff member Sue, will be making the bench and parents and staff members will be working on the mosaic logo. It should be done in the Fall, we're hoping.
Thank you to all of you for your donations to keep Kela's memory alive at Grant! Many fifth graders put Kela done for the person who influenced them the most in our yearbook. Her spirit will always continue in our hearts.
Bradie Nelson
December 14, 2005
Last weekend Savannah was drawing and started to tear up, she told me that she was really missing Mrs. Carbone. I told her that it had been about a year since she had passed away and I had been thinking of her a lot lately too. Savannah has a stuffed giraffe that she bought last year to help remind her of Kela; she named the giraffe "Dottie Carbone". She sleeps with Dottie every night. I just wanted to say that it is not the same at Grant without her but she has made a lasting impression and we can feel her spirit there. Kela's parents and family continue to be in our prayers.
Bradie, Boots, Savannah, Pearle, and Daniel
Mary "Sunshine" Teague
December 11, 2005
What a long year. I think about Kela a lot.
Sometimes, I sit down and want to call her or email her to tell her something funny, sad, frustrating, annoying that happened that day. She was a good listener. When I complained or whined about something, she could always convince me that I was right to feel upset, sad, angry, etc., and that of course, the other person was at fault. And she always felt my joy as if it were happening to her, too. How unselfish can you get?! I miss those moments.
My husband and I travelled a bit this past summer and ended up in Germany for a few days. Not once in my life did I think I would ever travel to Germany. Every second that I was there, I thought of Kela and wished that she were there with us. She probably could have convinced me to try eating some fries with mayonnaise!
Teaching is not the same without you, Kela. I strive to be better at teaching, especially art. You are my inspiration. I love you and miss you. You are always in my thoughts.
Love,
aunty t
December 10, 2005
dec.10,2005
called her mom judy, in germany
called grandma sally in hawaii who reminded me that it was kela's first anniversary of her untimely death,i am glad she was able to mention it.
many memories of last year
sadness
disbelief
grateful to see much of the family and many friends
mixed emotions during the holiday time
the cold,cold gray winter
but i have many good and fun memories of my niece,kela
and glad to have been part of her life
some included attending her graduation from university of puget sound and again for her master's
also, attending her wedding .
some road trips with her and her mom
to cottage grove, ore. to snoshomish
and other trips including hawaii
and her last visit with me, august 2004, she drove from gig harbor with her mom.
we viewed the many "heart statues" that were around the city that summer,
the one day we walked downtown s.f. to the ferry building after going to the musuem of modern art,
bus up market st to macy's, to chinatown walked there and had dinner there, was a whirlwind of a tourist day. SHOPPED
a fun day
that was my last visit with her
l am glad i have that memory.
rest in peace,kela
aloha, aunty t
aunty t canque
July 21, 2005
in memory of kela,
some of the family traveled to kahuku in remenberance of kela, she was in our thoughts more on july 17,2005 which would have been her 34th birthday.
we met at kela's grandmother sally,s home in hawaii.
mom judy from germany
brother joey and his family april
kela's nephew jack and her niece noelani from snohomish, wa.
kela's aunty len and uncle duffy
cousin kevin and anfon and cute 2 yr old hailey from cottage grove, ore...and eugene,ore.
kela's other cousin scott and his wife lesli and thier children dylan and 6 mo. old mari.who lives in hawaii
curt and jake from gig harbor,wa.
some of my remembrance of kela include.
being my only niece
her love of hawaii
her courage and determination
shopping
her german interests
her love of family reunions and even designed a t-shirt for the family on one of the reunions held at her and curt's home in gig harbor.
GIRAFFEES.
her love of san francisco where she visited me often.
many more fond memories of a dear girl.
alooooooooooooha, aunty t
joe pritchard
July 18, 2005
My Dearest Daughter,
Today is your birthday. You would have been 34, but are now forever 33. I thought about you today, as I do everyday, but with more reflection than I did on birthdays in the past. I thought about all of the hearts you lightened, those same hearts broken by your passing. We will always cherish the joy of life you shared with us and hope that in time those memories will outweigh our grief at you not being here.
I love you, Kela. I miss you so much.
Dad
17 July 2005
July 18, 2005
Translation of Silke's entry:
Dear Kela,
Today is your birthday. How lonely your family must feel without you.
I miss you also.
Your friend Silke
(Silke Körner)
Silke Körner
July 17, 2005
Liebe Kela,
heute wäre Dein Geburtstag. Wie einsam muss sich Deine Familie heute fühlen ohne Dich. Ich vermisse Dich auch.
Deine Freundin Silke
Joy Lugod
March 16, 2005
I was one of the many dialysis technicians who had Kela as a patient before her transplant. She was my favorite patient, and I looked forward to coming to work on Kela's days, because I knew we'd chat and have lots of laughs.
Kela was an amazing person in so many different ways -- she helped a lot of young health professionals get their start in patient care with her encouragement and coaching from the patient point of view. She and I had a common bond in our art background, and invigorated my love for scrapbooking, which we'd get together and do sometimes. We had so much fun scrapping, eating, talking. She even self-appointed herself as my wedding planner, and I know I'm definitely going to be missing her presence when that day comes.
There's times every week when I think of Kela: at work, when I scrapbook, or when I see my dog playing with his little giraffe toy. I still find it hard to believe she's not around and still sometimes think I'm going to get a random e-mail or a telephone call from her. I miss her so much, and will be forever grateful to her for all that she's taught me, in my future career in nursing, but more importantly, in how to enjoy life to the fullest and make time for those you care about most.
I miss you and love you, Kela. You will not be forgotten.
Cheryl Turoczy Hart
January 26, 2005
Kela's Mom and I were dear friends after meeting while chaperoning a kindergarten field trip in Stuttgart for Kela & my son's class. Judy and Kela and Joey and my son, Rick, and I used to participate in volksmarches nearly every week-end during which Judy and I poured out our hearts to each other, talked about teaching, and enjoyed the German culture and landscape as well as the antics of our kids. We also had a memorable Cross-country skiing trip in Austria.
When I look at Kela's picture, I still see so much of the happy, spirited little girl that I remember.
The world will be a little darker without her sunny presence!
Bless all of you who love Kela.
Cheryl
Sheryl Baxter, RN
January 22, 2005
I was one of the nurses who cared for Kela her last weeks here on earth. She touched my heart with her beautiful smile, her sense of humor, and her courageous spirit. She was a very special person and I am deeply saddened by her loss.
January 20, 2005
Translation of Silke's entry:
Dear Mrs. Pritchard,
Exactly a year ago, I finally received a note from Kela. I was so happy to hear from her. Kela and I have known each other since 1977 when you all moved to Kirchberg. Moreover, regardless where she lived, we kept in touch for a long time. Kela loved the "schwaebisch" food. My grandma always insisted on fixing her beloved Sauerbraten when she came. I was so shocked when I found out about Kela's death today. I would have loved to introduce my family to her and meet hers. All I have left are memories of a great friend. Dear Kela, I will never forget you.
Your friend Silke
(Silke Körner)
Silke Körner
January 20, 2005
Liebe Mrs. Pritchard,
vor genau einem Jahr habe ich endlich wieder eine Nachricht von Kela erhalten.Ich hatte mich so gefreut endlich von ihr zu hören.Kela und ich kannten uns seit 1977 als Sie mit ihrer Familie nach Kirchberg gezogen sind.Und ganz egal wohin sie in den Jahren danach auch gezogen sind Kela und ich hatten noch lange Zeit Kontakt.Schließlich liebte Kela das schwäbische Essen. Meine Oma lies es sich nie nehmen Kela ihren geliebten Sauerbraten zu kochen.Umso schockierter war ich dann heute als ich von ihrem Tod erfuhr. So gerne hätte ich ihr meine Familie vorgestellt und ihre Familie kennen gelernt.So aber bleibt mir nur die Erinnerung an eine liebe Freundin. Liebe Kela ich werde Dich nie vergessen
Deine Freundin Silke
Leon Brassard
January 18, 2005
Kela was a dear friend from high school, though the many years and geographic distance saw us talk less and less, I will always remember her sparkling personality and within her the kindred spirit in our shared love of art.
My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Michelle Bahn
January 15, 2005
I remember Kela from when I was little growing up in Stuttgart, Germany. She was a wonderful role model - a young woman with such a sweet spirit. I wish that I had known her as an adult - I am sure that she touched the lives of many.
Over Christmas I was back in Germany and my mom and I went by Stuttgart High School where the painting is still on the wall that Kela painted so many years ago - it is a wonderful memory of the beauty that Kela brougt into this world. My thoughts are with her family.
Wendy Bahn
January 11, 2005
Kela touched the lives of all of us who were lucky enough to know her. She was a role model for Michelle as they were growing up in Germany. We will always remember her beautiful laugh and smile, and her enthusiasm for life. Our thoughts are with her mother, Judy, her brother, Joe, her husband, Curt and the rest of her family.
The Bahn Family, Larry, Wendy, Michelle and Michael
Sarah Kinney
January 8, 2005
Kela was one of my first, and my favorite babysitters. She would read to me and my sister for what seemed like hours. I also had the benefit of receiving Kela's (fabulous) hand me down clothes! No day was quite as exciting as receiving those brown bags of clothes. I am sad not to have known her as an adult. I am sure she was as kind and generous as an adult as she was when she was young.
Julie Pinelli
January 6, 2005
I do not have the words to explain how I feel. Kela was my cousin who I only knew as a child. My grandmother told me what a wonderful person and teacher she was, and by pictures appeared to be a favorite and loved aunt. My husband, Des, and I have both Kela and Curt's families in our prayers.
Sally Edwards
January 4, 2005
Dear Judy and Family and Friends of Kela,
The news of Kela's passing stunned me as I was unaware of her serious illness. I had the pleasure to meet Kela for the first time at the NAEA Art Conference after many years of exchanging stories with Judy about our daughters who were close to the same age and had many similar schooling experiences. I felt like I had known Kela for a long time through our shared stories. My deepest sympathy for all of Kela's family and close friends as they miss her physical presence. Her spiritual presence will remain a part of all she touched as she indeed made a difference in many people's lives.
For Kela, a sweet angel, peace be with you.
Barb Osen
January 4, 2005
Dear Judy and family,
I met Kela several years ago at the National Art Education Association convention. She was so much fun- full of life, humor and talent. What a sad loss for all of us who knew and loved her. My thoughts are with all of you.
ANITA LOANDO-ACOHIDO
January 3, 2005
Dear Judy and the family of Kela,
I was very saddened to hear of the loss of Kela. My memories of her was when she visited us with Judy during one of their summer in Hawaii vacation from Germany. She had a quick visit because she had to go to her dialysis that day. We can only be grateful for the time she spent on this earth and touching so many lives.
I feel your pain as a mother, Judy, for the loss of a child no matter their age is a very painful loss.
I never got to meet Kela's husband, but I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy to you. Cherish the memories of her time in your life.
Ben and I extend our deepest sympathy to all the ohana of Kela.
Aloha pumehana, Anita & Ben
Sue Premo
January 3, 2005
I want to extend my sympathies to all of Kela's family and friends. I did not know Kela personally but heard so much about her that I know the loss is great. Barb Osen told me so much about Kela's beautiful spirit. With such a spirit, I know she is still in the world with us.
Maggie Castillo-Cockrum
January 3, 2005
Dear Carbone, Canque and Pritchard Families,
I was saddened to hear about Kela's passing. I have many fond memories of my days with her, Judy and Joey in Ludwigsburg. Her smile and waves as she rode in her mom's blue VW bug, came back to me as I read your email. Her artistic talents and love of life was always apparent in her Christmas cards. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I believe that Kela is very happy, at peace and watching over us with her lovely smile.
Duerme con los angelitos, Kela. Siempre estarás en nuestros corazones.
Adios,
Maggie
Agnes Gonzales
January 2, 2005
Dear Judy, Words cannot express the sadness I feel for you and your family. I remember Kela as a little girl riding around with you in your VW Bug! I remember watching her grow up and even though she had major medical issues she always maintained a positive attitude and had a pleasant spunk! I miss her!
Puchie Lawler
January 2, 2005
My Dearest Cousin,
I just found out about Kela's passing and I am extremely saddened for you and the family. She's in excellent company as you know and to quote a very famous saying, she's slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God. Our most sincere condolences.
Love Puchie & Mark
Susan Crumpton
January 2, 2005
Dear Family and Friends,
I am so saddened to hear that Kela has died. I lived with Kela in the German House in our sophomore year at UPS and went through the MAT program with Kela. I had the privilege of being a part of Kela's short life. I remember laughing late into the night with our German house crew; I remember Kela's ability to make any phone message or poster look professional; I remember Kela's creativity; I remember being so pleased that she could come to my wedding; I remember she was one of few that could really speak German fluently; I remember chatting with Kela as we drove together to her dialysis. Most of all I remember Kela being so happy with her home, her teaching, her friends, her scrapbooks, her family, and her husband.
My heart goes out to all of you and I will be sure to smile when I think of Kela.
With warmest thoughts,
Susan
Jennifer Western (Shepard)
December 31, 2004
I was a housemate of Kela's during our undergraduate years at the University of Puget Sound; I am so sorry to learn of her death. She told us about her kidney problems when we lived together so I knew how hard she was fighting. My heart and thoughts go out to her family and her students, I hope eventually you will find peace.
Kirstin Cenk
December 31, 2004
I am Kela's cousin. I never really knew her -- my only memories of her are when we were very young, playing at our Grandpa and Grandma Pritchard's house in Iowa. I wish that I could have known her as so many of you did. Kela was obviously very blessed to be surrounded by so many loving friends and family and in turn was a blessing in all of our lives. Our prayers and love go out to everyone who knew and loved Kela. I know that I will always think of Kela in the face of a challenge and remember her smile.
Love, Kirstin, Bob, Cheyenne and Shane Cenk
Jane and Steve Beckman
December 30, 2004
Kela is our neice, her dad Joe is my brother. Although time and distance made it difficult for us to keep in close contact we thought about her and all the trials of her young life. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Joe and Judy, our nephew Joe and his family and to Kela's husband Curt. Kela touched many lives and I know her family and friends will miss her dearly. She had the love of many people because she was a loving, giving person. Her spirit will live on through family and friends. We loved you, Kela. You will forever be in our prayers.
Aunt Jane and Uncle Steve
Lore Peyton
December 28, 2004
I was a teacher at Stuttgart American High School during Kela's time there. Kela was known for her artistic talent and her sunny, joyful spirit, often expressed through her art.
Kela's picture brought back a flood of happy memories.
Doug and I send our condolences to the many, many people whose lives Kela touched. Her courage and her determination to live life to the fullest have been an inspiration.
Kela, you will be remembered - and missed....
Sharon Loando-Monro
December 27, 2004
Dear Carbone, Canque, and Pritchard families,
All my love and thoughts to you. I didn't get the chance to meet Kela, but I have known her Grandma Canque, her mom, and her aunties since I was a little girl and from the sounds of it, Kela had their strong spirit and character too. Let her be an inspiration to us all.
Fondest aloha, Sharon
Marion Pritchard
December 27, 2004
Dear Little Kela, what do I say? You know I love you and how difficult it is to say "goodbye". I know you are in a better place with your grandpa and I know he will take care of you. Grandma Pritchard
Scott Lawton
December 25, 2004
I remember when I first met Kela, I couldn’t wait to meet my new found cousin. She was at St. Francis getting a dialysis treatment, and we talked about all kinds of things. She told me she was glad I wasn’t a “girl cousin” ‘cause she wanted to be the only girl. She’s the only girl and will always be an inspiration to my family and I. She’s been consistently positive and energetic no matter what the circumstances. We can all learn a lot from how she lived her life, I know I will always have her in my heart and mind. We'll miss you Kela.
Love, Scott, Lesli, Dylan & Mari
Sandra Planck
December 24, 2004
Dear Pritchard and Carbone Family,
I'm so sorry that you lost Kela. Kela, I didn't know you, just from the stories of your dad; but still I'm shocked of your death and all my prayers are for you and your family.Your dad and his wife Christa are very good friends of mine and I got to see some of your relatives in the summer of 1999 in the States. Even more I regret now that I wasn't able to see you. Like you from above, I will always take care for your dad. Rest in peace!
Yours, Sandra
Katie Reeves
December 23, 2004
I had the pleasure of going to high school with Kela at Stuttgart. She was a dear friend who always supported and inspired me to be creative. I'm not suprised she touched so many lives and inspired young minds to be creative too. She is missed and loved very much. The class of 89' will always remember you!
Savannah McClellan
December 23, 2004
Mrs.Carbone was my favorite teacher.I know that I am very lucky to have spent so much time with her.It is very sad .I wish the second graders could spend as much time with her. I will always remember her.
aunty t canque
December 20, 2004
my favorite niece, i will miss you.
some memories.
her baptism in cheyenne, wym.
her 2nd birthday in minn.
taking her and suzi riley to hawaii.
suzi age 17, kela age 13
her many visits to san franciso
her love for hawaii
her wedding day in gig harbor
her visit to san francisco in august,2004 to track down the "heart"
and many more memories in her short and meaningful life, including being a teacher.
rest in peace
aloha. aunty t.
Tiana Pinero
December 20, 2004
She was a great teacher. She was the number 1 teacher.She was really fun.I really miss her and I love the beanie baby slippery.I wish she was here with me.I love being in her class.She was a great teacher.I love her.She was great.
Bradie Nelson
December 20, 2004
To The Family of Mrs. Carbone-
I just wanted to let you all know what an impact Kela made on our family. Savannah loved her year with Mrs. Carbone, in fact so much that she was sure to take clay club every year since. Savannah also had the privilage of getting together with her during the summer. It always amazed me how she found the time to make everyone feel special. You would never have known that she was on dialysis that year about to finally get her transplant. What a stronge spirit, a true inspiration to all of the lives she touched. At first finding out that she was sick again the anger came to me. A friend made me realize something very important, Kela is an angel put on this earth to teach everyone she came in contact with, she endured so much while here that now it is time for her to go be with God. I know she was looking down at all the lives she touched this past Saturday at her service, which was such a beautiful tribute to her. I was so touched by the strength in her friends and family that they were able to honor her with such amazing words. I talked to my daughter Savannah after the service and she expressed how much better it made her feel. My family and I will be thinking of you all and send out our prayers to you.
Linda Owen
December 20, 2004
No matter how many medical problems Kela had, as early as a young teenager, she always maintained a positive and giving spirit. As a high school student, she worked in my classroom, and already was a "teacher in the making". Although I never got to see her with her own classroom, I know she was a wonderful teacher! We were all blessed to know her and have her part of our lives; we will miss her very much. My thoughts and prayers go out to her mother, Judy, her brother, Joe, her husband, Curt, and all the rest of her family.
Diana Sailer
December 19, 2004
Kela will always be remembered as a creative and fun loving person. Every day I would pass her room and greet her with a loud, "Kelly Carbone" to which she would respond, "Tie My Shoes". It was an inside joke between the two of us and it never failed to bring a smile to our faces. Kela taught us all the value of life and how to live it with style and grace. Her spirit will continue to live in all of the lives she touched. It was a pleasure to have known her, if only for a brief time.
Joan & Don Maas Devona
December 19, 2004
I was Kela's English teacher at Stuttgart HS in Germany, but I learned more from her than she did from me. Dialysis never diminished her spirit. She was an inspiration, a sparkling jewel who taught us important lessons about life without even knowing it, and I'll always be grateful to her for that. Her beautiful spirit lives on in all of us who were fortunate enough to know her. We were touched by an angel whose goodness and courage will affect our hearts forever. Go in PEACE, Kela!
Laurie Ruiz
December 19, 2004
I am shocked and saddened to learn of Kela's passing. I was in the MAT Program with her at UPS. My dad took a photo of me and Kela together at our graduation. Kela had on a beautiful lei. I never knew Kela had kidney trouble. What a feat that she made it through college, a master's degree and a career in teaching. How very proud I am of her.
My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Laurie Fisher Ruiz MAT'94
Cathy Dickerson O'Dell
December 19, 2004
Dear Judy and Family,
There are not enough words to adequately express my sorrow for you. You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. It is wonderful to read the contents of this guestbook and realize that many people and children were so positively touched by Kela.
Having you as her Mother, Judy, this comes as no surprise to anyone that has had the pleasure to call you a "Friend".
God Bless you all.
(Friends since 1979-Stuttgart, Germany)
Judy Pritchard
December 18, 2004
Dear Friends and Family,
Thank you for your prayers and support. The memorial was held today and the church was filled with family, teachers, parents and students. It was truly a celebration of life of Kela. Her second graders who attended with parents also brought the beanie babies that was given to them as a remembrance of Kela. We will all miss her very much. J. Pritchard (Kela's mom) and family.
elizabeth lawsom
December 18, 2004
i'm very sorry. i had 2 daughters in 1st grade at grant this year, who wanted ms.carbone SO badly as a teacher. I never really got to know ms. carbone too closely, and i'm very sorry now. my prayers go out ot all of the families who were deeply saddened by this event. just remember her for the great woman she was.
Robin Balmer-Logan
December 17, 2004
We are shocked and sad to hear about the passing of Mrs. Carbone. My son MacKenzie was a student of hers five years ago, while at Brown's Point. She was so young to have left this earth. I'm sure God must have had such wonderful things in mind for her that he could no longer wait. After touching many lives on earth, she now rests in truly good hands.
Tanya Jose'
December 17, 2004
Hello there. I was sad to learn that I lost one of my hula sisters on December 10th. Although we didn't dance in the same class, she was still my hula sister. And even though I didn't know her all too well, I know that we had something in common....our love for hula and the people that surround us while we're there. We will miss you, Kela. We love you.
Erika Gilmore
December 17, 2004
My prayers are with your family.
Kela was a highschool classmate of mine in Stuttgart. I last saw her a couple of years ago at the Vegas reunion. She was a creative spirit and we had good times together in art class. I'm grateful to have known her in my journey through this life.
Herta Dullin
December 17, 2004
Dear Judy, The children and I think of you daily, and we wish we could have met Kela.....just looking at her picture, I could feel what a special person she was....positive, cheerful,thoughtful, and from the entries in the guestbook, well loved and cherished by her family and many others. We were glad that you could be there with her,Judy, and that so many family members could be there to add support and a circle of love for Kela. Thinking of you Judy, and sending our sympathy to you, her husband and step-son, and the family and friends that were enriched by Kela's spirit and being. Take Care, Herta
Sheck Shirley
December 17, 2004
Hello, Judy,
I am saddened to hear of your loss. I did not know Kela; I do know her mother. I also know that she must have been a fine and very caring person. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Beth Bales
December 16, 2004
Judy,
I'm holding you in my heart.
Juanita Rivers
December 16, 2004
Judy, You and Family are in My prays.She was your jewel of a daughter,we will miss her.Okinawa,Japan
Crystal Pinero
December 16, 2004
Dear Carbone Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Mrs. Carbone was my daughter's teacher this year and reading teacher last year, so needless to say we our deeply saddened to lose such a wonderful, cheery, positive person.My daughter loved Mrs. Carbone very much. She sends her prayers to you as well. We will never forget her.
Michelle and John Johnson
December 15, 2004
My husband and I had the pleasure of knowing Kela since our days at UPS. I also got the chance to attend the MAT program with her. I will remember her smile and positive attitude. She will be missed greatly. She touched many lives of all ages. We especially know her students will miss her and never forget her. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Nancy
December 15, 2004
She was a fabulous teacher. I loved her a lot, she taught me a lot of stuff and I will miss her a WHOLE lot but i'm glad she is in a better place
Amy Scott
December 15, 2004
I am so lucky to have had Kela as a friend. She was one of the most supportive and generous people I have ever known. She was a positive influence in my life and showed me that no matter how bad things seemed to be, there was always a positive way to see things. It was this advice and her constant concern that helped and will continue to help me through my own personal challenges. Kela and I had a saying, "It is all flowers." Her life, even as filled with pain and illness as it was, was full of flowers and touched so many lives. I will miss you Kela, but I thank God for your final peace and comfort.
JULIE MOSESLY
December 15, 2004
How sad that such a wonderful teacher has been taken away. Her students loved her. When she had her transplant last year, she still took the time to write an occasional note to my grand-daughter Kaelin (her student) at Grant. She will be missed. God Bless her and her family.
Hannah James
December 15, 2004
Dear Mr. Carbone, I'm sorry about your wife's death. She was the best teacher. I miss her very much. I will remember her always. From, Hannah C.C. James
Showing 1 - 83 of 83 results
Make a Donation
in Kela Carbone's name
Memorial Events
for Kela Carbone
How to support Kela's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kela Carbone's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
