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Christy Quinlan Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Christy Quinlan
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Debi
July 6, 2024
Remembering you and thinking of your family...
Mom
July 8, 2023
My beautiful daughter Christy, Another year has passed since you were taken to heaven. So many changes, but the part of my heart that went with you has never healed in the 16 years you have been gone. You would be so excited by all the new little ones that we have been blessed with, and how grown up all the ones you left! Dad is not doing very well and has said a few times, he wants to go to heaven. When I told him about your dad passing, his comment was, now he is in heaven. We haven't been to the cabin much since dad has had his fall. We didn't get to your site this year, but visited your place of rest a couple times. Have ordered the inscription on our stone below you! Dad never wanted our name on there when we came to visit you. We miss going to the cabin and all the interaction with the grandkids and great grandkids. Well honey, i could go on for hours. But that is for my sake, not for yours, as with your spirit around us, you know all what is going on more than I! Just know, I love you and miss you every day! Yesterday I saw 2 butterflies flitting around together and immediately thought, there is Christy and Justin coming to visit together! Give Justin a hug! He is missed so much too!
Enjoy Eternity together and one day we will join you in that beautiful place called heaven! Love you to heaven and back! MOM
Debi
July 6, 2023
Remembering you and thinking of your family
Krista
November 8, 2022
I know Justin is at peace....now that he is with you again. I will never forget either of you. Your son played such an important part of my life. I will always have a special place in my heart and a special love for Justin. R.I.P.
Jenny
July 6, 2021
I am continuously in disbelief when this day comes around on how much time has passed. I recently heard an old Rascal Flatts song when driving which then immediately pops my memory to you. You are definitely not forgotten and still thought of anytime a butterfly appears. Thinking of you and the entire family today. Sending love.
Jacqueline Johnson-Bettenhausen
July 6, 2021
Cousin Christy, Now, that I stopped crying again as I do every year on this day I can write on here. I can even hear you telling me not to be a crybaby. I often think of this day July 6th, 2007 when I got the news you were taken from us. So much as changed in 14 years. You would be 60 this year. Happy Heavenly 60th Birthday Cousin Christy! I sure wish you were here to celebrate. I miss you so much! I love you! Cousin Jacqueline
Debi
July 5, 2021
Thinking of you and your family
Debi Luebstorf
July 5, 2021
thinking of you and your family
Debra LUebstorf
July 6, 2020
still remembering you-always
Scott Haasl
July 3, 2019
Still hard to believe at times. You are so missed by your ACA Fridley family and your name comes up often. You definitely made an impression on all who knew you.
The Dance
Brandon Tinkle
June 7, 2018
July 6, 2017
Mama, Ma, Mother-When you were tired of us yelling that, we had to say Christy.
10 years ago sounds like so long ago when it's spoken, but sometimes it doesn't feel that long.
10 years ago today-our lives were shattered and we were left to figure out how to keep going and try to put the pieces back together. We were all so young with so much yet to learn. How were we supposed to do that? It wasn't fair. It still isn't fair. It wasn't right. It still isn't right. How did we do it? Some have done better than others, but everyone's pieces are still scattered.
Life has changed so much; the world has changed so much- in just this little time.
The cabin was quiet this year, but we had a couple butterflies hanging around. They would go from one person to the next. Jen and Layla surprised everyone with a visit from Colorado. She is getting so tall and is a Farm girl, which you would be digging. The Golden Child (gag, haha) made a surprise visit up north too. The chub butt dived off the back of the pontoon like we were kids again. Brought me back to the good 'ol days; miss those so much. I wish we could go back.
All your nieces and nephews are "growed" up. Golden Justin as the oldest grandchild is 40 (hahahaha) and Ashley is 18 (hahahaha-joined adult hood oldy) with everyone else in between. Most have started families-you know we do stuff backwards, but overall doing well.
All your grand kids have grown up so much too. Austin J and Mer are adults now. Houstin and Dustin are teenagers. While the rest (Layla, McKayla, Madelyn, Bryley, Gavin, Matthew, Sophia, Taylor, and Kallie) are on their way. It's still hard to imagine you never got to meet some of them and they missed the chance with you.
Your brothers are great; all doing well. You would be so proud of Mark. Greg is excited about his new bike; he hasn't stopped wrenching for weeks. Dave Rich and I had a blast road tripping together up north. Terry,you know Terry; mine as well look for a lake, golf course, or set of woods if you want to find him. It was like having to go to Starbucks or Walmart to track you down. Oh wait that was impossible too; only person who couldn't be found in a store. Let's be real; they miss you and partly because they can't plan a thing or figure out a group gift if they tried. Hahahha! You had to keep them a bit grounded; well you tried anyway. :)
Your parents are wonderful, but miss you. They put on a happy face, even though they have a piece of their heart missing.
Us kids are all doing alright in our own way. However, could use a little extra support; send a little down. We will stay optimistic. Of course, I am still an angel and the best behaved...now that's funny :)
Today was a hot, but beautiful day. It was so nice to have everyone together to honor you and your life. Some tears & Some Laughs.
Gram spoke as usual and played Alan Jackson's Sissy's Song. Its a beautiful song and has an amazing story behind it; truly hits home. It's like he wrote it for you; for us.
No one has forgotten 10 years Later and No one ever will!
Love and Missing You Every Day! XOXO
Punk
May 14, 2017
Happy Mother's Day in heaven to my wonderful and beautiful Mother! Miss you so much!
It was a great weekend and day; majority of it was spent at the ball field. Weather was beautiful and D played great. Took a few balls for the team-back, wrist, and face! His team played so hard and only lost by 1 point for 1st place in the tournament. Then we squeezed in some practices for Kal. I know you would've been sitting by my side for at least some of it if you were here.
Then your son made an in town surprise visit out of the blue. He liked to do that to you every so often. Brought back some memories. It was great to see him.
I am so grateful for Dustin and Kallie and the other great people in my life. Your Brother Greg and Dad take great care of us; couldn't do a lot without them.However, we still miss you and wish you were here too!
I could only imagine the fun we'd be having. I wonder all the time where we would all be and what things would be different than they are today if anything.
Loving you always!
XoXo
Punk
Mom
April 1, 2017
Remembering you with so much love and affection and missing you more than you know as I remember the joy I felt on the day you were born! My beautiful little girl, who had a smile on her face before she opened her eyes from sleep. The years go by so quickly and ours are really slipping by. The reality of the fact that we have so many fewer years ahead of us, than we have left behind. Watch over us honey! You know who needs the guidance and care better than I do! You were such a wonderful source of inspiration and love while you were here. Now you have the opportunity to be in so many more places to help than before! Stay close! It is comforting to know you are near!! Love you always, Mom & Dad
March 30, 2017
Happy Birthday to the Wonderful Woman that gave Birth to me; gave me life!
I am tired of having to come here and write; that's mean I am tired of not having you. It seems so unfair! Why you? Why that day? I'll never understand. We still needed you. So many ugly things and people in this world, but you were taken.
Gram and I were chatting and she said, "it doesn't seem like 10 years does it?" Truthfully it doesn't seem or feel like it could be that long in terms of years, but sometimes it feels like forever.
The kids are getting so big and grown. Dustin (Noodle) is going to be 13 years old in a week. A teenager! Seriously? It feels surreal! He is one of the nicest, sweetest kids you will meet, but just a little flaky :). Hockey and Ball have become the sports of choice. I can picture you yelling like crazy! He would be so embarrassed.
Kallie is a spit fire and sarcastic one. I have no idea where she get's it from ;). Hockey and Ball have also become her niche. I would only love to know what you would think. Your granddaughter more into sports than me. I know you would be digging it. She would be more embarrassed of your yelling.
It makes me so sad and cry most times when I think about how much everyone is missing out. The kids of the family won't get to know you like we did and some won't ever know or remember because they weren't born yet or too little. You didn't and don't get to watch them all grow up. I will never let them forget or not know you, but it's not the same.
I really miss our talks. I would love to know what you would be thinking and feeling about so much right now. I would love your advice on other things. There isn't anything that can compare to some of the Mother/Daughter talks and time we spent together. I truly lost one of my side kicks/best friends. Dad does pretty good and tries, but he doesn't know how to handle some stuff and says, "I wish your Mom was here for this."
You would have thought the International Friendship Hockey Tournament Dustin participated in and hosting the children from Australia would have been awesome! And it sure was! One of the best experiences we've ever had. It was very hard to see them leave; their parents too. I think we have friends/relationships across the world forever.
Weather is getting nice, which we are all looking forward to. Not that we can complain much about this winter.
Please watch over all of us (a few could use some extra looking out)...until next time....
Love and Miss you Everyday Forever!
Missy, Punk, Kristin Rae
October 22, 2016
I am really really missing you today...
♡♡♡ Punk
Kristin
July 6, 2016
Another year has passed since you were taken from us and it now adds up to 9 years. Still can't believe it. Where did the time go? What a great and beautiful weekend at the cabin. A lot of the family was up there and soaked up the sun and water. We still find random floaties of yours. You were the Queen of them. Gram and Gramps were sharing stories of Bone Lake with me this morning out on the deck. They were laughing so hard about all the crazy times had by all they were belly laughing and crying. Your floaties attached to the Blue Goose were brought up, along with trying everything possible to sooth your non-stop crying breast fed nephew when he was a baby. Oh brother! Lol It was so much fun to have a speed boat up there, thanks to Uncle Greg. That Bun Buster, busted my butt alright. Haven't tubed in so long, it was a blast. Dad was so surprised its still around and working. I got my Uncle on it, he was nervous. Haha. I wish you were here to try it out again. However, I think you and Greg would be figuring out who was gonna try skiing first. Since I did so well learning as a kid, not! Haha That lesson on Cross Lake was a nightmare and a fail. I think you were all ready to kick me. :) We couldn't let Dustin's mishap stop us because what's 16 stitches, ahh no big deal. Just kidding. He was so scared, yet so brave and handled it like a champ. He said he was never gonna tube again, but now he's already talking about trying it again. He's tough like the rest of us. I truly believe you were with us on Monday when that happened. Here Gram and I are headed with Dustin to Sandstone Hospital on the same weekend of your accident 9 years later and have never stepped foot in the place since. Gram walks back with D while I am getting him registered and he told Gram, "I wish my Nana Chris was here with me too." In comes the next nurse and her name was Christy, spelled the same way. She and another Nurse were wonderful to him. Gram told them our situation when it was time to go and Christy said she got goose bumps. We finished our long weekend with Fireworks in Finlayson and more fun until it was time to go home today. I know it's what you would've wanted us to do. We stopped by the site on our way home and we all signed the cross. It means so much that no one has messed with it or taken it down. Kal wrote a message about being almost 10 now and was doing the math and days between this day and her birthday. It makes her sad she doesn't remember and it was only 11 days away from her 1st birthday. She is so sassy like us, yet so caring and sensitive. We Love and Miss you Everyday. That will never change. Goodnight Mama. XoXo ♡♡♡ Punk
Writing His Best with a Bad Hand
July 7, 2016
July 7, 2016
Beautiful Day with the Kids by the St. Croix
May 10, 2016
Bowling on Mother's Day, Rockin' your shoes and canonly use your ball for so long; too heavy for me!
May 10, 2016
May 8, 2016
Happy Mother's Day!
Another year, another birthday, and another Mother's Day has come. Still miss you just as much, if not more everyday you're not here.
Today was beautiful! Dustin, Kal, and I went to lunch in Stillwater, hung by the river, got ice cream, watched Kal play hockey, and ended with bowling. We had a great day and a lot of fun. Their gifts and cards were priceless. They are sweet kids, with a sassy side; cant imagine where they get that from :).
You would have turned 55 this year and I think you would have dreaded that number. You were freaking out about approaching 50. The spaghetti dinner we had in honor of your birthday was nice and went off without a hitch; of course it did your daughter took charge. Haha. Brian and Kal's cake turned out pretty good too. Gram and Brian kept asking me if I was gonna go to the cemetery and I said, "heck no cause it's pouring rain outside and I'm not standing in that and she wouldn't expect or want me to." I planned the party instead.
I continue to look more and more like you every morning I wake up. I've been asked multiple times in the last two weeks if my tattoo is a self portrait, which is more than it's happened in the 7 years I've had it. It cracks me up every time!
Love and Miss You so Much! I couldn't have asked for a better Mom. Goodnight! XOXO
Punk
March 31, 2016
Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter on your 55th Birthday, and 9th Birthday in heaven. We had a birthday gathering tonight celebrating you, your life, and the many memories everyone had. You would have had a ball! We laughed so much at all the many memories, many of us had forgotten, and some your mother did not know about!! You are missed so much, and loved even more! On Easter, the butterfly hanging above the counter fell into the ham I was slicing, and I told everyone, Christy has just let us know she has arrived for Easter! Your presence is felt so much! I woke up at 7:06am and you were born at 7:05am on this day, March 30th. It was Holy Thursday, so it was no surprise that you were here for Easter. Well my beautiful daughter, Happy Birthday! Love and miss you every day! Your Mama
July 7, 2015
My Beautiful Daughter, Another year has gone by and I miss you every day, even tho I know you are with me. You came to us at the cabin over the weekend, as your spirit fluttered around all of us in a beautiful butterfly. As you landed on everyone and went on anyone's finger that was held out to you, we felt your presence. The memories of this week 8 years ago are so vivid, and yet so vague. Sounds kind of crazy, but that week I felt like I was going crazy. Now I know that was not the case, as reality set in and I prayed for help. My prayers were answered, and it is easier knowing you are in the arms of God. So until that day when we meet again, keep sending your spirit our way with the butterflies. It is comforting to everyone who loves you! Especially me, Your MOM! Love you to heaven and back!!
Jacqueline Bettenhausen
July 7, 2015
Missin you cousin!
Kristin
July 6, 2015
Hey Mama-
Just want to say I miss you so much. Thinking of you today, like every other day. Still trying to figure out where these last 8 years went. For some reason it seems so impossible its been that long, even though most days it feels so long for how much we miss you.
It was a beautiful weekend at the cabin. We all had so much fun. Brad stopped by the site and all is still good there, so amazing no one has messed with the memorial. Jeff brought up when the snake was swimming toward you in the lake while you were floating on one of your 50 floaties. Haha! I saw a little of you in your Brother Greg because we couldn't leave shore without piling the pontoon with floaties. Then Kal was trapped on the dock yesterday because a snake was at the end and wouldn't move. She was freaking out like you. I wouldn't go down there; thank goodness for Jenny and Dustin :)
Our little extended weekend getaway up north was great. We had a great time in Duluth for the day. Wish you could've been with us.
I tried to write on your birthday and its always my luck something messes up when I post on here. Then I have to contact them and attempt at getting it fixed; let's hope it works today. Maybe I'll try to put that message up again, fashionably late is your style anyway.
Love and Miss You! XOXO
Punk, Kal & Dustin
Mom
March 31, 2015
Happy Birthday my beautiful daughter. I relived the moment you came into this world at 7:05am, 3/30/61. You were the most beautiful little girl I had ever seen and lived up to that until the day you were taken from me. Dad and I sang Happy Birthday to you early in the morning, as I do with all the family every year. I know you heard it! We went out to your resting place and sang again, and remembered the beautiful person you were, and spirit you have left with us. You are loved and missed so much by your brothers, kids, grandkids, all the family, and by so many others! Your presence is with us and the butterflies remind us of that presence. I want to say rest in peace, my beautiful daughter, but I know you will not rest as long as you are needed here. Looking forward to Easter and the resurrection of our God who secured heaven for you, and all of us. I know you are in the arms of God and He is Blessing You Honey, on your Birthday, Easter, and always! He gives me strength every day to accept you are in a better place and I will be with you one day! You are forever in my heart, and missed every day!
Love & Hugs, Mom
I look like my Mom and She looks like hers!
Kristin
March 30, 2015
Kristin
March 30, 2015
We Miss You SOO Very Much...
Kristin
March 30, 2015
Grandma with her speeches...for sure to make you cry!
Kristin
March 30, 2015
Kristin
March 30, 2015
Kristin
March 30, 2015
Memory Garden...so Beautiful!
Kristin
March 30, 2015
We were with you today; Love from your Family :)
Kristin
March 30, 2015
July 9, 2014
Loving and missing our beautiful daughter for seven years! A beautiful butterfly made it's appearance at the cabin and landed on Greg's finger, then made the rounds of the deck, so we know your spirit was with us this anniversary weekend of your joining the angels in heaven. Terry said a butterfly landed on him while he was fishing on Leech Lake, the same place he was when he got the news of your accident, seven years ago. His comment was, "She is still with me!" It makes us all happy to know your spirit remains with us and looks over us! I would tell you to rest in peace honey, but that is asking way too much for you!! You have too many here to visit! You would be so excited to hold all the new little family members we have. Your little grandbaby, Bryley, great-nieces & nephew, McKenzie, Kashton, Kennedy, Leena, & Jazzie. The others are growing up so fast. Mersadie brought your picture and put it on the back of a seat watching Austin graduate this year. I can just see how proud you would be. I am sad that all of them have missed out on having you as part of their life as they grow up. For myself, I long for our talks and shopping trips. We had a blast! Your daughter is kind of a clone of you! Looks and talks like you, and does not mince words about what she is thinking! Sometime I have to take a quick second look, thinking I am seeing you! We have a good time shopping for bargains too! Your memory never fades, and never will. You will be with me always! On our special days, I bring out the appropriate card for the day, that you gave us! The cards are beautiful and such a reminder of the gratitude we feel for the wonderful relationship we had. Well Crissy, until next time, you will be in my thoughts and prayers, and keep those butterflies fluttering around us all. We Love You and Miss You! XO XO
Mom & Dad
July 7, 2014
Remembering you
Jacqueline Bettenhausen
March 31, 2014
Gone to soon cousin Christy!
Mom & Dad
March 30, 2014
Christy, this candle is for your Birthday today. On March 30th, 1961 was born my beautiful daughter Christy. It was one of the most joyous days of my life, but little did I know, one day that joy would turn into the most sorrowful day of my life, but in between those two days, I am so blessed to have so many wonderful memories,some challenges, many blessings, and most of all, my best friend. I miss you more than you can imagine, but your spirit remains in our midst. Seems strange to say Happy Birthday with you being gone, but the appropriate word for your birthday is Happy!! So Happy to have had you for 46 years. So on this special day, know how blessed and grateful and proud I feel! My baby girl who grew up to be such a wonderful, beautiful, caring, loving, compassionate, spiritual, and special daughter and human being is being celebrated today! They say God only takes the best, and in my book, you were one of the best! You will be remembered by many on this special day, as you left a mark on the heart of all you touched. Today we will celebrate a "Happy Birthday" to Christy and I just sang Happy Birthday, as I do for all who celebrate a birthday in my family! I know she hears me, but I sure wish I had the voice on the other end of the phone saying, Thanks Mom! Tears are flowing now! Love and miss you every day honey! Hugs, Mom & Dad
Yup it definitely runs in the family...Crazy Fun!
July 6, 2012
The shirt proves to be true!
July 6, 2012
It's the three of us
July 6, 2012
Bonds Tie Us Together
July 6, 2012
It's the TRIPLETS, We're all Crazy thanks to our mothers...
July 6, 2012
I think my Mom's goin crazy!
July 6, 2012
Kallie's Kindergarten Graduation Makeover of Nana
July 6, 2012
We Love You!
July 6, 2012
Mama-
As I sit here on this 4th of July, the last day I ever got to talk to you 5 years later reflecting on my 28 years of life I couldn't ask for 2 better parents. You always teased me, “It's all about Dad.” You're right I am a Daddy's girl, but I'm also a Mama's girl, which I know you know. It still shows frequently as I've needed you too many times to count the last 5 years. You both always trusted me and my decisions. You always said, “I will trust you guys until you prove me wrong.” All the ups/downs, laughs/cries, smiles/frowns, good times, and bad, no matter what we all had each other's back.
Living on James St, and moving to Osceola, where we had a lot of fun and many of my memories begin. Parties and me singing on the chairs and tables learning Lost In Your Eyes, which they wouldn't let me sing in the talent show in Kindergarten because I had to sing Raffi with the class. Even though he's a family favorite, I was so disappointed. Swimming at the neighbors, and having Art a grandpa from another family. He would say thru the fence, “Hi ya Punky” and pass me Pillsbury Cinnamon rolls often times after we dug in the garden for worms, so he could go fishing at the cabin. On a mad moment someone decided to help themselves into our home and use my New Kids duffle bag to steal my stuff. UGH. We first made Pizza sandwiches, Yum! Or who could forget The New Year's Eve Kids Party and bang Pots and Pans, really were you two nuts? A few things while you were gone, ordering pizza to the neighbors or played on the spinning round table, yikes, can we say “staples for heads!” The trip to California was great, but I'm sure there are things I don't remember, and wish I did, but modeling, I was so friendly that it worked out really well for me. I made us millionaires. LOL! Sorry, I was scared of that boy and didn't want to take a picture with him. I met Jeff Conway though and made it to the magazine. I'm still cool!
Off to Forbes St, what a dump! LOL. We're lucky we never died climbing those stairs. Sorry for getting talked into believing he had a DL and was old enough to drive and take your keys, but wow was that a crazy joy ride until we got caught. HAHA! Then I got grounded and had to miss Sister Act in the theater with Molly, come on now Mom!
West 7th apartments here we come. Talk about cramming in, us kids all shared that one room on/off. A bed started on fire and got warnings for vacuuming too late. They didn't know who they were letting move in. HAHA. I became a lady, Justin groomed daily like he was going to the prom while we waited on him, and Brandon and Brian complaining you were making them late for hockey. Hot tub, party room gatherings, my Easter basket in the dirty laundry, middle of the night wake ups to watch Fame with Dad, upstairs fun with Maureen and Tara, short walk to Mickey's for a hair omelet, and Cybil across the hall. I got my first CDs ever through Columbia House and our first computer, I think one of the first ever…Wow how far technology has come.
The ultimate move and journey, Sandstone. Where do I begin? We called ourselves Cityiots, and boy were we! Horses-Paco was nuts, Misty was a brat, Buck me and him didn't get along too well, and poor Garth, Dogs-Nightmare was cool, Toby-gave us the liner Darker than Toby's ***, and Baisha-that poor dog, I know you got rid of her somehow, like maybe in town, Cats that had 13 babies, Ducks-Henry and Matilda, Lois and Louie the Iguanas, and a stray pig from Concord. What were we doing, we darn near killed every single one of them. I turned out to be such a great horseback rider too, or not. Getting kicked 5 feet, bashing my head and falling off between poop piles was enough for me to give up and call it quits. Justin jumping the fence cause the horse looked at him and David getting him electrocuted. Me beating Brian with a hanger and Brandon holding me down for you to cut my bangs, I was not going for that. As a family, we accomplished one of my best school projects ever. You found out you were going to be a grandma for the first time. All I have to say is Garth Brooks, parties, and fires. Now we know why we only last 1 year. It's a good thing I agreed to move if I got a trampoline.
Back to the Cities, a separated, but still close family. A couple more moves. Girl Power on View in between them boys moving in and out. These were some of my best couple of years as a teenager, so many memories, I will forever cherish. A few of us will never forget my pouring rain walk, boy was I mad. You and I had our first and only little squabble, I laugh about that now every time I think about it.
The house on Goodrich, that was a great time too. Lots of partying for me when you would go up north. We had a lot of fun with your parrots, before one flew away while you painted your kitchen door. I started driving and rolled that ugly grand marquis. My first love came into my life. Playing in the snow with Jenny, Brent, and Kim on New Year's. All I can say is soco chocolate malts with Pepsi chasers are gross. The snakes were horrible, but we spent a lot of time laughing on the yard swing together. Late nights swimming in the pool and hockey game traveling. Roseville, was an experience. The crazy conversations us kids would have with you. There wasn't too much we all didn't know about each other, but I can remember you saying from time to time, I don't wanna know. We also had a lot of girl time here too, whether it was in bed, on the swing, or snuggled on the couch. My first baby was born, your Noodle. You used to pick him up and slow dance to Wonderful Tonight. He loved doing that so much he would go to the stereo, tap on it, and wait for you to pick him up. You were never much of a cook, but I wish I knew how to make those cheesy hash browns you concocted while living here.
I finally moved out on my own. You helped me put together my first apartment, which was difficult to take everything down from and move out, since I knew you weren't going to be at the next place helping me.
All the shopping trips, even though at times our taste was completely opposite-you liked that frilly girl stuff and I didn't for the longest time, working together, or going out-even when you were sober are a few of the fun things we did consistently together. You used to say I had 4 boys and not 3 boys and a girl, it's getting better-well I try, sometimes anyway. You were always so good about helping with Dustin and eventually Kallie for a short time while we went to school. It was your biggest demand that we not quit. I will forever be grateful for that, I hope I made you proud with the outcome and it worthwhile.
I will never forget the last time I spoke to you. It was Wednesday July 4th, 2007. The conversation was rushed, which is something that sticks with me because that was rare between you and I, and it makes me crazy. I was with new co-workers and you were trying to catch Brent so you could head to the cabin with your friends and eventually meet up with Dad. Had we only known?
I tried to call you later that day and the next to tell you Dustin finally went “potty on the toilet,” but I was never able to catch you. I asked Grandma to make sure she let you know. Then I received that dreadful call things weren't good, and eventually you were gone. The worst day of my life so far. The first thing I asked Grandma was if she told you, and she said yes. I was so happy for that, we had been working with him for so long.
Reflecting on the last 5 years is good and bad, can't believe we're already at this milestone, even though at times it feels like longer. I never thought I would have made it 1 day without you, but I have your strength and did, not that it's been easy. A lot of good things have happened, it's just sad you're not here with us to see them occur. There has also been some bad and I wonder if it wouldn't have happened or been done differently had you been here. After these several years I have realized more than ever, you were a huge piece of holding this family together and losing you has changed so many things. I don't think you realized this or never knew it, but it's obvious now! Your Brother Greg told us a couple weeks ago his life changed and fell apart when you died. Brad still fights with your patch on his shorts and a tattoo for you on his side. He needs to finish that darn thing soon. He's going to turn pro soon, please keep a good watch over him so he stays safe. Give him the drive and strength to kick some butt! Jenny and I took the kids to the parade today in Finlayson and took a couple looks around. I looked at her and said I wonder how I would've turned out or how much different my life would've been if we had stayed living up here. I couldn't imagine, as much as I love to get away, I think I'm a city girl thru and thru. She started singing, “just a small town girl livin' in a lonely world.” Thinking very true!
All the kids are getting so big, it's crazy Austin J. is 16 and Taylor is 3. Dustin is getting so big. You would be so proud; he's getting so good at baseball and hockey. He played first base last week and did awesome. His hockey coach told him he was one of the best skaters on the team this year. He ended up with quite a few goals this year. I could only imagine the yelling you would be doing. He misses you so much. Kallie is growing up fast too. She's gonna be 6 in a couple weeks, I can't believe it. She has developed her own personality and is dramatic just like us. You would get the biggest kick out of her, she is so funny. I could only imagine the 2 of you together. She started T-ball this year and is doing well. She is my musical queen, I hope to get her learning an instrument soon, like we both wanted to do. She asks a lot of questions about you and what happened. I will make sure she knows and never forgets. They are both getting so good at speaking Spanish. They also like to decorate my tattoo and kiss it frequently. Me and the kids went to the MN Zoo last week and walked through the butterfly garden. It's so cute how much they are interested in butterflies and want to learn about them.
Brian is doing so well, you would be extremely proud. We get along better now than ever, amazing I know! HaHa. Brandon let a little of his macho guard down finally, I think it helped a lot. I keep pushing him to move home. I think Justin is struggling a lot, but keeps it in. We're still working on him, maybe you could give us some help. Me, we know I'm perfect. LOL! I have my ups and downs, but I surround myself with support and make the best of my rough times. I struggle more when something gets difficult because you would be the person I would turn to in times like that. I also have many songs that remind me of you I listen to, whether it's a good day or bad. Sometimes they create tears and others they put a smile on my face. Dad misses you just as much. Sometimes I think we're more than he can handle and he wishes you were here to call. No matter the circumstances you were still the best of friends and continued to have great times together. Dad tries so hard and does a great job doing this alone with all of us. We have gotten much closer than we ever were before, some people probably think we're weird, but that has never stopped us from anything. Ask us the last time we cared? We're a team you can't break, even though we would like to choke each other from time to time.
I asked the kids if they wanted to write something and they both said yes! Dustin said “Nana I really miss you and I love you!” Kallie said, “I love you, you are the greatest Grandma ever, and you did fun things with us!”
I'm still working on this riding thing, so stay close. I can imagine how cool we would look together! Everyone misses you every day and the impact you left and continue to have on all of us is amazing. I will continue to keep my memories and songs close. I will never forget and will continue to keep your legacy alive.
Continue watching over us and we'll keep watching for Butterflies, like the one that ended up in my back window and we have no clue how.
I hope you like our outfit today because the shirt fits. I'm trying to celebrate you with a smile today, can't promise it will work all day!
As I am writing this, a butterfly landed on the screen, just outside the window, where I am writing this at the cabin. Thank you for making your presence known!
Love,
Kristin Rae
Punk and Your Missy
You Mama, Daughter, and Granddaughter remembering you today!
July 6, 2012
Friday, July 06, 2012 12:30PM
My Beautiful Daughter Christy,
It has been 5 years, about this time, we got the call, there had been an accident, and we should go to Sandstone Hospital. You had just left the cabin, and I can still see the big smile on your face as you road down the road for your journey up north. Little did we know, our life would change forever, when we got to the hospital. From the moment they told me, “Christy did not make it” I could not believe you had left us. For some time after that, my life is a blur. I miss your physical presence so much, but feel your spiritual presence all the time. You live on in my heart, and always will, until we meet again. I am happy in my heart for the gift of eternal life you are receiving, but my heart aches, and the tears fall when I think of losing you. You are present to all of us when we see a butterfly. I know you know how much you are missed by Dad, your Brothers, your Kids, Grandkids, and all of your family and friends. You left a lasting mark on so many, and many memories for us to share. I love you so much Chris, and one day I will see you again. Keep watching over us! I know, you know, who needs you the most!
As we left the cabin yesterday to show Dee and Sheryl your memorial cross on the highway where you left us, a deer ran across the road in front of the truck. Dad barely missed him. Just one more reminder of that fateful day. How significant to the remembrance of this weekend. Were you reminding us of the fate of your destiny??
You must be smiling at the T-shirts Kristin and Kallie are wearing as a tribute to this day. “Crazy Like My Mama”, with big red kiss lips! They are soooooo cute, definitely a Christy type t-shirt. Also, truer words were never spoken!! I see you in her, in so many ways. I know you are beaming with pride for your kids and grandkids. They all miss you so much!
Well Christy, we will make it through this day, as we do every other day, smile on our face, and grateful for the years we had you in our life! Til the day…
With Love and Memories,
Mom
March 30, 2012
Happy Birthday to my Beautiful Daughter!!
The memories are overwhelming and I miss you so much! I know your spirit is with us, and one day we will be together again, when we have a rebirth together in heaven! Dad and I talk of you often, especially when you turn the lights off and on when we are watching TV. We will be watching for the butterflies! Again, Happy 5th Birthday in Heaven! Love and miss you so much, Mom & Dad XO
March 30, 2012
Happy Birthday Mama!!
I told Gram I think you would be crying about being 51 today, even though you would still be told your 25 :)
I miss you so much. I thought this was supposed to get easier with time, but sometimes I think it gets worse.
Gram and I are trying to hang pictures and I told her you would be laughing at us for all the measuring. You would have eyed it and it would be right on.
Bring us good weather for Dustin's Birthday Party, as we celebrate for the both of you!!
XOXOXO-One from each of us.
Love and Miss You Always!!
Punk
October 3, 2011
Mom-
You may have been right....Maybe I should've listened...I just don't know. Missing you a lot lately.
July 7, 2011
To our beautiful daughter, Christy,
We can hardly believe it has been 4 years since that fateful day when we got the call to go to Sandstone Hospital, there had been an accident, because I still get that awful pit in my stomach when I think of the moment the doctor said, "Christy didn't make it". It was the most horrible moment of my life, and it could have been today, as well as 4 years ago. Dad and I were sitting on the deck at the cabin this morning remembering how happy, laughing, drinking coffee we all were that morning before you left on your journey. We had no idea what that day had in store, or where that journey would take you. I can still hear you telling me, "Don't worry mom, my guardian angel is riding with me."(I've had a few talks with him too) We are so grateful we had those few days with you at the cabin before, and over the 4th of July weekend. Sunday night as I was gathering the bathing suits, towels, etc. off the deck because it was thundering, there was this huge butterfly just swooping around my head and pestering me. Christy, with all the butterfly experiences we have all had, I just know you were letting me know, you were there spending the holiday weekend with us. When it landed, I went in and got the camera to take a picture, and when I aimed, it opened it's wings as if to pose for the picture. I know your spirit is with us. I miss you so much! You were my best friend, and every holiday I bring out some of the cards you gave us, and it renews our memories of the wonderful relationships we had. All of your kids and grandkids were at the cabin this weekend. You would be so proud of them. They all remember their "Nana"! The ride Brian has organized this Saturday is very special to him. He wants so much to memoralize his Mom! Ride with them and help them to be safe. The ride will start at your resting place, with a stop at the spot God took you home. I can't imagine you not joining them on that ride. (Now your daughter has a motorcycle, hop on and ride with her!!) Sunday, Father Clay will be saying a Mass for you, and all who love you! As Dad and I were coming down Hwy.61 today, on our way home from the cabin, a deer ran right across the road in front of the truck. That has never happened in the 14 years we have been up there. How ironic it would happen today. Just one more reminder of that fateful day. We know you are happy in heaven, and one day we will be together again, but that doesn't take away the sadness we feel in not being able to hug you and laugh with you, knowing you will never sing Meatloaf again, with a bottle as your mike. That came up at the fire on 4th of July night. This was a pretty emotional day for your all of your brothers. They were all in tears when I talked to each of them. We all miss you Chris, and life will never be the same without you. You were one of a kind, and if it is 4 years or 40, that will not change. (Except by 40, I will be with you!!) Til then, we love you, we miss you, and we know one day, we will be together!! You stick with us in the butterfly experiences for awhile, because we are not quite ready yet!!
I haven't written in a long time, as this is pretty emotional, but you know, I think of you all the time, and you travel with me on all of my journeys. I hope they don't haul me to the boobie hatch if they see me talking to, what seems to be myself!!
Hope your enjoyed our memorial "50 is Nifty" birthday party we had in your honor. I am starting to think I am getting old!! :)
Love to our beautiful daughter, and my Best Friend!! Mom XO & Dad XO
July 6, 2011
4 years today. Wow!! Sometimes it still seems like yesterday and other times, it feels like forever. I got some nice text messages today, but Uncle Greg did it, he's the one who made me cry. The others added to the breakdown. Then when I left work I had to listen to "I'm Alright" and put a smile on my face. I really miss you and all the things we used to do. Talk about anything and everything-sometimes for hours, laugh, joke, wrestle, shop, jam to the tunes-"crank it," dance- cause you really thought you were the "stuff," so "step back, you're dancin' kinda close," check out boys-even though you stole them all cause they thought you were my "hot" sister, or you being a trooper as my sober cab, partying like it was 1999. Conversations with people about certain things just aren't the same without you. No offense to anyone who may read this. There are so many times I encounter something and want to pick up the phone to call you. I didn't only lose my Mom, but I truly lost my Best Friend!! The one who was always there when I needed her.....
I'm digging riding my own motorcycle and I hope you would be excited too!! I think you would and if you were here, we would be doing it together. I get a lot of looks and I laugh every time. Together we would really be getting stares. HAHA!! Ride along with us on Saturday for the Motorcycle Ride Brian planned in honor of you and your last ride. All of us kids were at the cabin this weekend together and didn't have any major wrestling matches. Amazing, huh? HAHA!! You would be so proud of Brian, he is holding it together and being so strong, something you had been waiting for, for so long.
I asked the kids if there was anything they would want me to write to you today and they both told me and what I write came directly from both of them in their own words. Kallie said, "I Love you. I Miss You. I'm Sad." Dustin said, "Nana, I miss you, and I'm sorry that you died." We talk about you often. On our way home from the cabin, me and the kids had a conversation and before you know it Kallie was bawling her eyes out and Dustin's head was hanging low with a sad look on his face. You would be amazed at how big they are already. I missed you as a sidekick for all of Dustin's hockey this year. He doesn't get the screams he would be getting if you were there. I found a balloon Dustin gave you for something one time in some of your "Treasures" :) and you wrote Noodle on it. Jena and Molly insisted I needed to keep it for him, so I did. Kallie is going to be a big Kindergartener and Dustin 2nd grade, both learning Spanish. Pretty soon they will be talking smack about me and I won't even know it.
We will continue to look for butterflies and miss you as always.......
Love,
Kristin, Dustin, and Kallie
May 8, 2011
Happy Mother's Day Mom!!
XOXOXO!!!
Love Always,
Kristin, Dustin, & Kallie
April 26, 2011
I continue to read everything that's posted on here. It's always a nice reminder of the love that still holds true from family and friends. I got Dustin's birthday present with you in mind. A grow your own butterfly garden...couldn't be more perfect. I can't wait to see what comes of it (fingers crossed that it actually works!) Cabin time is right around the corner..bring on the sunshine and butterfly season!
With Love,
Jenny
April 24, 2011
Happy Easter Mom and to all of you who still visit this guest book and continue to read what has been written. It was a beautiful day!! Let's keep it coming, I need a break from the rain.
Love,
Kristin
March 31, 2011
March 30, 2011
Happy Birthday Mom!! I can’t believe it’s your 50th Birthday…I have been wondering all day what you would think of that. Brandon and I discussed it a few times, laughing at what your thoughts would be about it and how funny it is, you would actually be 50. So many things have passed and happened since the last time I wrote. That summer has passed and another is on its way. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas came again which were all fine, but just no longer the same. I don’t think they ever will be!
Dustin is continuing to get better at hockey. It’s been fun to watch him play the real deal this year. They put his name on his jersey for spring league and its so cute. I really wish you were here to see it and watch with me. I know you would be loving it, yelling your famous line, “skate, skate, skate!!!” It’s his Golden Birthday next week, can you believe it? I think it’s crazy you would be 50, it’s even crazier he’s going to be 7 already. He’s getting so big I can’t keep up, and he loves to snack like you, the nibble king. I almost cried a week ago when he carried a full conversation with his dentist in Spanish. It was my first time hearing him do it to that extent, it was awesome and they were so impressed too.
The Kallie Girl is growing up so fast and has definitely developed her own personality…she has too many mixes going on from all of us and I’m thinking she’s going to be trouble. So many times I want to pick up the phone and call to tell you some outrageous thing that came out of her mouth or a full of attitude look and pose she gave me. I swear I need 24 hour surveillance because she is going to be the wild child, but also because she is soo funny I feel like it should all be recorded to play back to her some day. She’s a Little Drama Queen Diva, Hence why her Papa calls her Drama, not that I have any idea where that came from…LOL….I’m not taking all the blame which is why I say she has too many mixes. I can’t get this girl to do anything, don’t know where she got that either…I mean I became such a rich model for You and Dad, that’s why we‘re rich now…HaHa. She does dig her music though, she might be a genius in that area. I sure hope you can hear her jamming and see her dancing to “I’m Alright,” because she loves it and knows it’s one of your favorites. Anytime I need a smile or am feeling down, especially about you I crank that song and jam!! It’s awesome driving in the car on a beautiful sunny day blasting that song with the windows down. Kallie’s on her way to Kindergarten in the fall, but going on 15 haha, and I hope she likes Spanish as much as Dustin has or we’ll be in trouble. She still kisses you on my arm all the time. I can’t believe she is going to be 5 this summer, times goes so fast.
They both really miss you and talk about you all the time. They keep their close eye out for Butterflies and anything else that connects you to them!!
For me, I have to agree this riding stuff sure is awesome. I hope you are and would be as excited about it as I am. Of course, I’m giving everyone else a heart attack, but hey that was your style too. It was fun to start at the end of last year, but was way cooler to begin this year on your Birthday!! After how many years of not having a bike Dad got it back and started his in 2010 and we did it together in 2011. It was pretty awesome to look over and be riding next to Dad gliding down the road smiling at each other. I only wish you were here doing it with us. I get what you mean when I heard one of the last things you told Grandma and Grandpa is, “it’s awesome, your cruising down the road, hair blowing, flying through fresh air without a care in the world.” It’s fun when people look at you and you know they think your cool…HaHa. A lady I passed told me it was pretty cool and brave I was starting so early in the season. My Uncle asked me what I think you would be thinking…My response was I think she would be digging it!! Don’t you? He gave me the Greggy grin and said yea probably. Dad agreed too. So, I sure hope so…I’m also hoping your saddled on the back or front with me every time I get on. Dad and I talked and told you and Grandpa to saddle on together and enjoy the ride. I’ll be keeping my eye out or waiting for a signal. He also told me he won’t ride with me anymore after today because everyone comments on how nice my bike is…your daughter is sooo cool! LOL
Grandma had a nice birthday party for you tonight and the whole family came. We decided it was necessary knowing you would have made sure one heck of a bash was thrown, now that as Grandma says you’ve reach Nifty Fifty!! She read some beautiful things once again, I know big shocker, right? Or not….A few of us shared some stories, from butterflies, to Uncle Terry expressing he has felt your presence and knows you’ve been there to help him and his family through a recent difficult time, or Dad sharing that you received “your loin m’am!!” He also reminded us how much the casinos, Starbucks, and Walmart are missing you. He says they had to lower their wages cause they lost so much revenue. However, I assured them your are somehow up there working your Little Bro and wages are back on the increase cause he’s at Walmart just as much as you were. I swear every time I call him he’s in that store or just pulling out, it’s like déjà vu. I’ve been joking with him on how much he’s starting to like the casino too…so I guess if you have some influence on this, at least help him with big, so he’ll share with me.
Continue watching over our whole family and keep us safe!! Pull some strings up there so I can get my house and Dad can win the lottery, you know it’s a big dream of his!! Between you and Grandpa you outta have it covered. Wait your Bro needs some luck too…haha
Overall, things are pretty good, sometimes this feels like it gets easier and other times it feels like it gets worse. Sometimes it feels like forever and sometimes it feels like yesterday…no matter what you are always in thoughts!!! I will forever be missing you, but with a smile for how grateful I am that you are MY MOM!!
I Celebrate Your Life
I Love you, XOXOXOXO
Kristin Rae
Jacqueline Johnson-Bettenhausen
March 30, 2011
HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY CHRISTY! I SURE MISS YOU! LOVE,JACKIE
Mom
July 7, 2010
My Beautiful Christy,
Well it has been awhile since I have written to you, but then you know that! With the communication we have, a day does not go by that I don't think of you and have a few words. Our weekend at the cabin was so much fun, and you are ever present. All of your kids and grandkids were there remembering their Mom & Nana. We celebrated little Maddie's 4th birthday with cake and presents, and the next morning I was sitting on the swing with her and she looked up at me and said, "I have a Nana Chris, but she died, and she is an Angel now." I just had to hug her as a tear rolled down my cheek. Those little ones are missing so much by not having you in their life. You would be so proud of all of the little ones. To watch all your little grandkids playing together, Kallie, Layla, McKayla, Maddie, Dustin and Houstin brings back so many memories of my little grandkids. The balance was so different though. We had so many more boys. Everytime we head for the pontoon, Christy and her floatees comes up. You were the floatee queen. Your presence is reflected in every butterfly we see. Justin had a big Monarch land on his hand when he was visiting the site where you left us. He said it just stayed and stayed. Your memory is so much alive. Brandon and Kerry stayed at the cabin with the two girls for the week. He has such a bond with those little ones. I know you see how they love him, and he tends to them like a mother hen! He is hoping to be able to have them come to Arizona and spend some time with them, if they can work it out. I know Kristin misses you so much! There is no greater bond than a daughter and her mom. I look at cards I had gotten from you, and you have no idea how I treasure the relationship we had. Three years has gone by, and to this day, I can be in that very moment, when the doctor told us, you didn't make it. Greg told me he went out to Resurrection yesterday morning and had a little visit with you. It was really hot and he needed to go cut grass. He said he really didn't want to go, but you said to him, "Greggie Boy, you can do this," so here I am sweating my ---
off cutting grass and thinking of what you and dad are going through today. You are in everyone's thoughts and prayers. Father Clay called me at the cabin, to tell me he is thinking of us, and we are in his prayers on this third anniversary. De called too! She has a picture of you in her bedroom, and she says everyday she looks at that picture and tells you, she is going to be up there before any of us, and give you hell for riding that damn motorcycle. Ray and Joyce rode up to the cabin on his motorcycle to visit the site and stop at the cabin. As they left, and that motorcycle went down that road, my heart just sank. I could see you on that bike, as clear as a bell. That was my emotional downer for the weekend. I was so glad to hear his voice on the other end of the phone when he got home saying they were safe and the bike is in the garage. If only.....but it was not to be. Well Crissy, another anniversary has come and gone, and there will be more I know, but for now, I just want to say, I love you and miss you, and am trying to fill your "MOM" and "Grandma" shoes as best I can. They are just some BIG shoes to fill and I will never fool myself into thinking I can ever take your place. You are one in many million!! Continue to watch over all of us! I keep waiting for you to put a little luck in those slots for me!! Next trip, OK???
Love you so much!! Love from Dad too!!
Stay close!
Love from your MaMa!!
Linda Ayde
July 7, 2010
Christy,
Thinking of you and missing you! I want you to know I am going to be an Usher for Joyce Meyers the next 3 days and Christy you are my guest in spirit. I will be praying for your family and thinking of your grandchildren too! I know they all miss you so much! Until we meet again.....I love you sister!
Linda
Hi Nana!! We are watching the fireworks shoot up into the sky headed towards you in Heaven!!
July 6, 2010
It's been 3 years today since you took this journey. I wasn't ready for this and neither were you or the rest of the family. I miss you so much, yet know your presence is so strong. We missed you at the cabin on this weekend we will never forget. All of your kids were there having a great time, with no fights. Can you believe it? HAHA! I can't!! All the kids are getting so big and had so much fun playing together. We did a lot of swimming and exchanging of your floaties, it was like you were there controlling it.
The Diesel Run is this coming weekend and I know you would be there. This annual event started with a memorial run for you, so send us a butterfly to show us your there, since that’s your way to send us a sign all the time. Please watch over everyone and keep us all safe!!
Dustin played ball tonight and hit a couple good balls. I wish you would've been there to see.
Dad, Molly, and I hung out tonight after Dustin's ball, thinking of you. He told us his butterfly story while at the site of the accident on Sunday. It kind of freaked him out, yet he thought it was pretty cool. He misses you as much as anyone, I'm sure it's because he has to deal with me alone now and has no one to call and complain about me when he needs too like you guys used to do. HAHA!!
It was 5 years since Grandpa died and 2 years for Josh, both in June. Could you give them both a hug for me? I miss them too!
Love you Always and Forever. XOXOXOXOXOXO.
Your Baby Brat and Daughter
Debi
July 6, 2010
always remembering you!
Jenny Gruber
June 21, 2010
Was at the cabin this weekend with Keeks and the kids. Memories of you are always around whenever we are at the cabin. We took the kids out to the trampoline and a small butterfly was flying around and around and around and finally landed on my head...then moved it's way to Dustin where it just wouldn't get off. He got this biggest kick out of it! Before it even landed I was thinkin' it was you payin' us a visit, then when the butterfly stuck around I knew it must be your way of showin' us you were there. Kristin and I decided that it may have been a moth and then got a quick little chuckle but either way it was a good sign.
Thanks for watchin' over and payin' a visit. Everyone sure misses you!
Maybe we'll get another visit over the 4th...until then, thinking of you.
-Jenny
Look at me, I'm a Drama Queen!
June 15, 2010
Hi Mama! I have been thinking about you so much lately. I really miss you.
It's Dustin's first night of ball, so give us so good weather. He is getting so big and graduated from Kindergarten. I can’t believe it. You would have enjoyed the graduation ceremony they had and his dancing performance.
I missed writing Mother's Day, but I was thinking about you (the best mom in the whole world). I think about you every day. We happen to find one of your crazy hair piece claws and Kallie was loving it. She was flinging her hair around and stomping around the house like she was something. So, she decided to pose for pictures. HAHA!! Then she looked at me and said, "Do you think Nana can see me wearing this?" I told her yes, and she smiled. Later that we went to the store and she lost the hair, she was so crushed and started crying, saying you would be mad at her for losing it. I told her that you wouldn't be, but we had to retract ourselves 3 times before she allowed me to give up. Needless to say we never found it. I hope Kallie never sees the other little girl wearing it because she might attack her. LOL! I’m hoping we find another one in some random box of yours still out there. She talks and asks questions about you all the time.
Your Boo (Ryan) graduated on Saturday from High school, that’s scarier yet. Talk about making me feel old when I’m not. I changed that kids diapers. He’s still a peanut though. Brad turned 19 last week, talk about making me feel old again. I changed his diapers too!! Of course, you were missed at Gramps birthday party, but it went well…a little rain never stops us!!
Thinking of you always!!
Love, Punk
April 2, 2010
To My Beautiful Daughter,
I haven't written for a long time, because everytime I think about sitting down to write, my emotions start and I just can't do it. As I thought of you on your birthday, my memories were just overwhelming, and yesterday on Holy Thursday, the day you were born, I remembered vividly how that day was, and how ironic, you were born during Holy Week, the most spiritual week of the year. I don't know of anyone more spiritual than you, and I sure miss all those wonderful conversations we had about so many deep subjects. I still talk to you, and I know you hear because I feel a peace. We share so many laughs during our celebrations. I remember your always running late, and Kristin is a chip off the old block. Christmas Eve she was running late, and I said, "She will be running in here shortly asking for some wrapping or a bag and some scotch tape, and sure enough, it wasn't only a few minutes later, here she came, Gram, have you got some wrapping paper and some tape." We all laughed. I hope you liked the visit at Christmas when we all came to visit on the Christmas bus light tour. When I shined my flashlight up on your picture, the kids all yelled, Nana Chris and of course we sang Jingle Bells for you. The other day I came across a picture of you and dad by the skating rink he made for you when you were about 8, and you got ice skates for Christmas. You loved that skating rink! He got a little emotional looking at that picture and remembering. We had your name on the March Birthday Cake. Ryan and I, and our Angel Christy. I have a little memorial for you set up on the buffet for Easter. The flowers will be taken out to be put in the vase on the front of your resting place next week. Dad & David put your trellis and bench out in the yard yesterday. I will be putting the flowers on, and they are the same flowers you had when you were here. I just love it, and I can sure see you when I look at it. I know you enjoy all the shopping trips we go on. I take you with me everywhere I go. Your little grandkids are all so precious. You would love dressing all these little girls, Kallie, Layla, McKayla, Maddie, and Taylor. Remember when all we had were little boys?? Dustin amazes me with his Spanish and Houstin is getting so big. Dustin sang Happy Birthday to me in Spanish. Austin and Mersadie are growing up. Austin will be going to high school next year. (Wow, I must be getting old.) Kallie and I have many conversations about Nana Chris. McKayla and Maddie loved putting on your big pink hat when they were here at Christmas time. Taylor is so cute. She has those big cheeks like Kristin had. We will always keep memories of you alive! Watch over your kids. I will be there if they ever need me, but guess what, there is no one like mom, and I know they miss you so much! Brad is fighting at Northern Lights Casino this month. He has your patch on his boxing shorts. I can hear you at ring side cheering him on. Well Chrissy, I could write all day, but today is Good Friday, and at noon we will be doing our Walk with the Cross down 7th Street. If you were here, I know you would be by my side, but as it is, you will be with me in spirit. I will be reading the Obituary of your Keeper, on our stop at St. Stans. Today is a sad, but joyous day, because if not for today, we would not be celebrating His rising on Easter Sunday, so you, and all of us, can be with Him in heaven. I know you are happy, along with all of our other family members there with you, and one day we will be together. Until then honey, I will keep you in my heart for all time. You will always be a part of every day of my life, and every celebration we have. Watch over your brothers, they miss you a lot.
I love you!
With this message comes lots of love, many hugs and Merry Christmas,
Happy Birthday, Happy Valentines Day
and Happy Easter
From Your MaMa and Dad
My Beautiful Mother-You are with me everywhere I go of everyday!!
Kristin
April 1, 2010
March 30th, 2010
Mom-
Happy Birthday to my Mama!!
So many things have happened and so much time has passed already, I still can’t believe it. It’s been so long since I’ve written, but I think about it every day. When I feel like I get the opportunity to do this, I feel I don’t want to sometimes because it makes me so emotional. We got through the rest of the summer and Dustin started hockey in the fall. That first week, all I could think of was you and wondering what you would be thinking or how excited you would have been. I can picture the smile right now. However, it was quite funny, because as I stood there watching the game that was being played explaining to the kids what was going on, I found myself yelling, “skate, skate.” Some of your most famous words. Dustin did so well and loves it so much. He was chosen to be one of the 25 out of 50 kids chosen to play in the real game at the end of the season. I could only imagine how loud you would’ve been. Kallie is getting so big and growing up so fast. She is 3 going on 15, and every time she spends time with Grandma Pat, she comes home talking about you for hours. It breaks my heart when they talk and ask about you, because I know how much they miss you. Dustin is also learning so much in Kindergarten and speaking Spanish like crazy, I’m starting to think it’s one of his new favorite things to do. Kallie likes daycare/preschool too, but by Wednesday she is glad she is done for the week asking who she gets to stay home with and where are they going to take her. She likes to shop…hmm where would she have gotten that? I have no idea at all…
I gave myself a present of you over the summer and think today is the day to debut it here…I really love it and think it turned out beautiful, but duh why wouldn’t it right? It’s you on me…haha
Christmas came again and it’s just not the same. I told grandma it sucks and isn’t exciting. I used to look forward to all the presents you would personally pick out as you thought of each one of us and put under the tree, and there were so many you could barely get in the door. I know I’m still a big baby and like presents like all the other kids. I also still find myself seeing things I would be getting for you.
The family is doing well, but there are so many changes, and sometimes I truly believe it has to do with losing you. All the kids are getting so big and developing their own personalities, I could only imagine what you would think of it. No matter what no one ever lets them forget you, nor will anyone else themselves. The pain has eased a bit and dealing has gotten easier, but it doesn’t change how much I think of you every day or miss you. JoJo and I spent Sunday going through your stuff, yes you are still haunting us with it, but we had some laughs. We also had some brief moments where we would look at each other and knew it was something special that could turn us to mush buckets. We also tried to fly kites with Dad and the kids, but I stunk at it and will never live it down. The little times like these that might not be anything major, but crushes me we don’t have you here for. I hope you are having one heck of a celebration up there in your last year in the 40s. I’m going to quit now because I’m starting to cry! Until Next time…
I Love you and Miss you so much!!! We all do!!
P.S. I hope you are watching over Dad he is having a special day today…
Love,
Punk
Jacqueline Bettenhausen
March 30, 2010
Happy Birthday cousin Christy! Love and miss you! Jackie
Chris Brown
March 30, 2010
Happy Birthday Girlfriend. I know you are happy and watching over all of us, but I'm afraid I am still angry and confused as to why, why someone who had so much more good to do here on earth was taken away from us so soon. I know you wouldn't want us to be sad and I try but it's really hard. I have my memories and I can still hear your laugh and giggle loud and clear. Keep giving us strength, let us know your around. Love and Miss you.
Paula
March 29, 2010
I will be thinking of you and your family. Happy Birthday.
July 8, 2009
Hi Kristy! So much going on, I am now in dis belief that Michael Jackson died. Who would of ever thought you guys would die within exactly 12 days before you almost 2 years later. I guess God has a plan for the both of you, will you tell Michael Hi for me, I know you two will be dancing up a storm......Love you! Linda Ayde
Kristin
July 6, 2009
Hi Mom-
It has been two years today since you left us. It has been the longest two years of my life. I know you are watching over us. Please stay close!
We love and miss you lots! XOXOXO
punk, Dustin and Kallie
May 10, 2009
Hey Mom-
Happy Mother's Day Mom!! It was a pretty nice bright day, but Grandpa said it was a little cold. I missed you today, as I do everyday, but it's these kinds of occasions that make it worse.
I wish you would have been here the other day. The neighbors had a party and a lady who rides a motorcycle got the biggest kick out of Kallie riding the Harley around and said the only thing she needed was a skirt and boots. Only did she realize when Kallie got closer she had a skirt on, the lady really yelled and cheered, along with the rest of the people who were standing there with her. She thought it was so cute, that she took a picture of her and told her to always keep riding. I could bet you would have said the same thing.
Love you and miss you lots.....XOXO
Love Always and Forever,
Punk, Noodle, and The Kallie Girl
Linda Mills/Ayde
March 31, 2009
Hey Sweetie! Once again it is a day to remember you! Happy Happy Birthday! I miss celebrating with you, we always found something to celebrate, it was just in our nature, we loved to party just about life in general......I still have the plant you gave me for my birthday 5 years ago along with the magnet you gave me when I celebrated 20 years in the program .....it hangs on my frig with many warm thoughts and memories of you! Love and miss you BIG!
Linda Mills Ayde
Jacqueline Johnson-Bettenhausen
March 30, 2009
Happy Birthday Christy! Wish you were here so I could tell you on the phone. I miss you so much. I just want to know sometimes what your doing in heaven so soon? Not a day goes by I don't think about you. I look at your picture everyday. Well, I'm done crying now. Yep! The BIG crybaby that I am. You were always there when anyone needed you. I thank you for that. I hope your having a wonderful birthday up in heaven. May God watch over you and keep you close. Love always, your cousin Jackie
Robyn Bennett
March 30, 2009
Happy Birthday Christy! I didn't know you personally but I worked on creating a video of your life and what I saw was a woman who was genuinely loved by her family and loved them right back. I felt your presence when I created the video on more then one occasion. I've had the wonderful opportunity of getting to know both your mother and daughter and I now consider them friends.
I'm sure you are having a great birthday up in heaven!
Kristin
March 30, 2009
Hey Mom-
Happy Birthday!!
It's another birthday already without you here, and I still can't believe it. Sometimes it seems like yesterday and other times it seems like forever.
Dustin and Kallie both say Happy Birthday too, and Dustin has been telling me a lot lately he misses you sooo much. They sent you balloons yesterday, but your granddaughter told me this morning she wants her's back with a very sad face!! HAHA!! While we were waiting for everyone at the cemetery yesterday, I pointed to your spot and said the letters of your name (since he is so into saying and reading letters and words now) to show Dustin where you are, and then asked him if there was anything he wanted to tell you and he said, "I'm Sorry". I asked him why, and he said "because she fell of her bike." I asked him what else he wanted to tell you, and he said "I miss her!!" He also told me that you had a red motorcycle and that he wants his motorcycle to be red too and not orange because he doesn't like orange and it's ugly. However, I don't think his Papa will be going for spray painting his motorcycle, so I think he will be out of luck until he gets a new one.
I have so much more to say, so I'll write again soon when I have more time. I just wanted to makesure I sent you a birthday message today!!
Love you and Miss you tons!!
Punk, Dustin, and Kallie
Love, Your MaMa
March 30, 2009
Happy Birthday Chris,
It has been a long time since I have written in your book, but as you know that doesn't mean we haven't communicated. I feel your presence so much, and I know you are helping me through my sad times. I hope you enjoyed the family chorus singing Happy Birthday to you yesterday! After our little reflection at the cemetery, and a few sad moments, the memories and mood changed to happy, just like you would want it to be. It was so fun to watch your little grandkids let the balloons go up to heaven to you. They ran and watched until we could see them no more.
I remember the day you were born like it was yesterday. I had no idea how fast 46 years could go, and what a short time I would have you. I have so many wonderful memories that seem to over shadow the challenges we faced together. On this your birthday, I can only say, one day we will have another wonderful reunion, happy, like the day you were born, and we will never be separated again. Until then honey, I know your spirit is always with me. I am comforted knowing you are happy in the arms of God! As I sing Happy Birthday to you, as I did every year this morning of your birthday, the greatest happiness is mine, that I was blessed to have you for my daughter. Forty eight years ago, right now, you made your grand entrance into this world! 7:05AM A magical moment that brought many joys into my life! Now after a few tears, I will celebrate the wonderful memories I have of my beautiful daughter!
Love and Miss you every day!
I can hear you as clear as a bell, saying, "Thanks MaMa, I will see ya later"!
Dad says "Happy Birthday, and he misses you too Crissy!
Jenny Gruber
March 29, 2009
I know everyone is thinking of you around this time. I was just with Kristin and the kids yesterday as they picked out balloons for your birthday. Dustin and Kallie were so sweet about it. As we walked into the store they were point up at the sky and saying "heaven is up there Jenny." They known you are watching down on them every day...as do the rest of us. You are missed but not forgotten.
Thinking of you
Cherrie Jackson
March 26, 2009
Christy,
Hey there! It has definitely been a while!!! Just wanted to tell you, "We miss you tons!!!" Not a day goes by where we don't think of you. It is still very hard to believe you aren't here to see, talk to, and to receive the best advice(counseling) in the whole wide world!!! I need to come visit you soon.
Love you and missing you always!!!
Linda Mills-Ayde
November 2, 2008
Hi Christy!
Been thinking of you lately! Every time I look in that mirror that hangs in my entry way that you gave me, and of course just the small little trinkets that hang on my fridge. I want you to know I light a candle when the girls and I meet so your spirit is always here.......MISS YOU BIG!
Love you, Linda
October 31, 2008
Hey Mama-
It's been a while since I've been here, but just thinking about you a lot lately (well everyday).
Happy Halloween!!!
We will miss you today, the kids especially not being here to see them in their costumes. Dustin is gonna be Batman, in which he truly thinks he turns into Batman and that you don't know it's him with the costume on. It's pretty funny!! Kallie is gonna be a skeleton, she looks really cute and picked out her own costume with Papa.
Brad made a project at school for today in memory of you, as they had a "the day of the dead" celebration.
The Family and Donor rememberance celebration we attended last weekend in honor of you for the Minnesota Lions Eye Bank was beautiful. You were the last photo of the slideshow and shined at everyone for quite a while as it ended and faded away. They sure saved the best for last.
I'll be off soon to do trick or treating, so I will talk to you later.
Love you,
Punk
Pat Heroff
August 20, 2008
Hi Crissy, I have to add a little something to the previous message. I can't tell you how beautiful that butterfly was. Terry and I had no doubt your spirit was so alive visiting us that Sunday morning. We both felt it was such a moving experience, and such a peaceful reassuring presence, letting us know you are OK, and with us. We miss you so much, your beautiful smile, and light hearted personality, like the beautiful butterfly that brings your spirit to us. I keep you close and with me always. I will certainly miss you so much in the next couple of weeks as the Fall Festival draws near. Shopping for prizes, stapling tickets, and all the running around we did. I will probably be doing a lot of talking to you, as I scurry around trying to get everything done. I treasure every moment we spent together in the hustle and bustle. I will close for now, and watch for the beautiful butterfly to reappear. In the meantime, I will hold you in my heart, and carry you with me always!
Love and miss you!
Mom
August 14, 2008
Chris came and visited us Sunday morning in Terry's back yard. This beautiful butterfly stayed with us for over an hour, as we took pictures. It even moved around the flower so we could get better shots. When it first came, it flew way up in the trees, and Terry asked it to come back, and a short time later there it was. Her spirit is around us all the time. Have a great day!
Punk
August 14, 2008
It's Pretty Amazing!!! Last night Gram stopped by with some mail for me, in which she was quite anxious for me to open since she knew what it was. It was a note from LifeSource, along with a letter from one of YOUR recipients. This person needed to have surgery on their ankle, however in order to have that done another surgery was going to be needed first; to take a bone from their hip to put in their ankle, but because of your choice to donate that wasn’t necessary. They used one of the bones from your body that you donated and gave it to this person, and therefore, saved them a surgery and more pain. This person was very grateful and appreciative, for their gift on behalf of our loss of a loved one. It’s pretty crazy to imagine, but awesome to know that somewhere your bone is still out there walking this world, along with your eyes, yet we still bear the pain of not having you. One day I hope to have contact with each one of the recipients that will receive whatever is used because of you, and then tell them what gift they truly received, and how proud we are to be your loved ones. You gave some people true gifts, and for that is one of the several I am proud and grateful to be your daughter. I love you mom, and even though your not here, you are still making a difference. Amazing!!!
Mother
In her eyes
The look of loving,
In her smile
The warmth of caring.
In her hands
The touch of comfort,
In her heart
The gift of sharing.
- Author Unknown
Love You...XOXOXO
August 5, 2008
MOM-
I MISS YOU MORE AND MORE EVERYDAY!!!
MORE THEN ANYONE WILL EVER KNOW OR UNDERSTAND.
NOTHING IS THE SAME ANYMORE.
MISSING YOU ALWAYS AND FOREVER,
KRISTIN RAE
Kristin
August 4, 2008
I wrote this message one day, but when I got interrupted writing it and it sat, it was hard to get started again, it felt like the right words or flow wasn’t coming to me that I wanted. My plan was to have it on here before the anniversary day, but I just couldn’t get the right words to complete it and have it finished how I wanted, so I am going to leave it right where I left off, and to me leaving it unfinished…
As I sit here to write this, I can only try to imagine all the things I would want to say or write. I can’t believe it’s going to be one year in 3 ½ days, as were halfway through July 2nd (today). I still have such a hard time comprehending all of this, not being able to help “wondering why”. I know I shouldn’t do that because you’ve always taught me that when it’s your time, it’s your time and what’s meant to be will be, but to me it wasn’t your time. I still NEED you way too much, ha-ha, selfish huh? I know, but that’s okay, because it’s true.
Mom,
You are not only my mother, caregiver, teacher, and mentor, but my BEST FRIEND (the best I would and could ever find and no one can replace that or you), and I still can’t get over not having you here. I’m Sorry. I guess this is supposed to get easier, as I’m told it’s supposed to because a lot of times that is hard to believe. Some days everything seems like it’s going to be okay, and others seem so hard to bear. There is too many times where I have thought, “Is she really gone forever,” and it’s too hard to imagine, comprehend, or believe. No one could ever replace the void I have or establish the bond or closeness that we had. When I lost you, I lost a whole lot. I can’t tell you how many times, I have accidently went to dial your number, called someone mom, just wanted to call you to chat with you for no reason at all, or when I’m having a hard time about something, and it’s just not the same with someone else. Sometimes you just want to talk to mom and no one else. Instead, I have to talk to you and hope you can hear me, and think about the situation and what I know about you and decide how you would do it and take that as an answer or hope sometimes some signals I get are you somehow answering me.
I have such a hard time dealing with knowing you’re not here to see all accomplishments that the kids and I have already achieved or will continue to achieve as we go through life, or all the changes and growing that will happen as we continue this journey through life, like me finally getting a good full-time job doing something I want or you would’ve wanted to do after all my hard work in college, Dustin playing T-Ball for the first time and starting preschool in the fall, Kallie turning 2 in a couple of weeks and starting to talk to like crazy, always smiling like a little cheeser for every picture you take of her.
Watching strange people walk away with your stuff at the garage sale, was a little difficult. It continues to make the situation more final, and knowing how much your STUFF meant to you and watching it walk away, but there was just too much there to keep, Sorry ?, don’t be mad. However, the positive I saw in all of it was, knowing that you loved it all so much, and now it’s making someone else happy, which is what you would want, if only they knew how special whatever they bought was and what it truly meant to the person who owned. They were truly getting a good deal, just like the car dealer with that old beat up Cadillac with a CD player stereo in it, right? (Ha-Ha).
I had one of my clients tell me I need to bring some life into my new office, so I am going to use a few of your pictures to decorate, and the picture of me and you from my senior pictures as part of the life. It’s funny the lady also wants to help decorate and started picturing how things should go in her head; it reminded me exactly of you. It was like you were sitting here telling me. So, we are going to set up a time to do it and she’s going to help me put it all together, as you would be doing. Then another client saw a picture of you, and asked who you were. I told him you were my mom and he asked for your digits, but I told him you no longer have contactable digits, so he apologized to me, looked up and apologized, and figured his mother was telling you, “I’m sorry and please excuse my son, yep that’s really my son.” Then he held your picture by his heart and said, “Oh my god, she is so beautiful,” and kept the picture. Trust me; he was not giving it back. It was really funny and you would get the biggest kick out of this guy.
When I write these messages, sometimes it’s really hard and usually I get sad and cry on and off, but on the other hand, it makes me feel better to get it out. Also, it feels good to know that others out there might read this and learn more about you, how much you’re missed, and the kind of special person you are. However, this guest book will shut down at the end of the day on July 6, as that is the one year mark for this incredible nightmare. It sometimes feels like it’s been forever, and other times it feels like yesterday, but I still can’t believe it’s already going to be 1 year or 365 days, we’ve all lived without, never thought it would be possible, but I know I have to stay strong and keep going, it’s what you would want.
I could go on and on about all the great memories and bad memories or the crazy things we’ve done, but there wouldn’t be enough time or space, because we have so many. I am very grateful for all them because the good and crazy memories are what give me the happy thoughts and chuckles, and the bad have and will continue to help me grow.
Love,
Punk
Love always, Your MaMa
July 9, 2008
To My Beautiful Daughter, Oh Chrissy, this is so hard, as I miss you so much. One long, sad year, and yet it is as fresh in my mind as the day you road off and we got the call. Those words still haunt my memory, "she didn't make it". Well I know you did make it to a better place, but even knowing that doesn't take away the pain of never being able to hug you, or get another one of the beautiful cards you always gave me. I have searched them all out, and as you know I don't throw any away. Reading them makes me so grateful for our wonderful, close relationship. I know you are always with me, and the Serenity Prayer you always said, is my salvation every day. I know I need to accept the things I cannot change, but God knows I need help, and with Him and You helping me, I am making it, until we meet again. Everybody was at the cabin over the weekend, sharing memories, laughing at the fire remembering things you said or did. I just know you were there too! On Sunday, the anniversary of that fateful day, we all went over to the site, where God took your spirit to be with Him, and had a little memorial service. I did pretty good until we looked down and saw the spot where you ended up, and that was way more than we could handle. That was the pierce in the heart, that took Dad and I out. He goes over and visits you every time he goes to the cabin. Your kids and grandkids, and your brothers miss you so much!! This weekend they are having a bike run and music bash at O'Gara's in your memory. I just know you will be there dancing and singing, and having a great time. I can see you singing "Meatloaf" with a bottle as your mike. I have had so many messages, cards, and calls from so many family and friends thinking and praying for us as we pass the one year milestone of loosing you. On the 20th, Father Clay will be saying a Mass for you, but I think he knows we need it more than you do. We are comforted by where you are resting. We go out and visit you, and know you are safe and happy. God has a beautiful angel in you, and I think He took you, so you could help all of us through our trial and tribulations. That was your mission on this earth, and you did it well. Now you can help so many more with your wonderful spirit. I keep you close, and we travel many paths together. I know in this life, I can handle anything. I have survived for one year after loosing you, my beautiful daughter, and after that, anything is a piece of cake. I am going to say so long for now, but we are never far apart. I know as I walk along, you are only a half a step behind. As we went on our shopping trips, and we would separate, dad always said, "She has given us the slip". Well honey, no more slips, you are with us forever!!
July 7, 2008
Thought it would be appropriate to post Information on the One Year Memorial in case anyone out there would like to attend:
Christy Quinlan
One Year Memorial Rock n’ Ride
Sunday, July 13, 2008
O’Gara’s Garage
164 Snelling Avenue North
St. Paul, MN
The Urban Myth Band
and
Brian Leighton
Music starts at 3:00pm * $7 cover * Beer specials * Raffle
All Motorcyclists welcome for a Bike Run!
Meet: 10:30am at Lake Phalen
End: 2:00pm at O’Gara’s
For more information call Justin 651-283-5762 or Ray 651-343-4820
Chris Brown
July 7, 2008
Chris, Chris, Chris, an entire year has gone by and I am going back to MN to visit and my heart is sad knowing I will not see you and hear your laugh. I have your picture hanging at my desk and talk to you everyday, I hope you can hear me. I have to admit I am stuggling with this whole "have faith" thing. I'm sorry but it's hard to not be angry and wonder "what the heck God" when we lose the people we love so much and who really did make the world a better place, and they were taken from us so early, you, Mike, Josh, Don just to name a few. I try and picture you and Mike up there riding your motorcycles together, maybe Orville too and I can hear you both laugh, you know that laugh Mike had when he thought he was just so dang funny even when the rest of us were rolling our eyes. I regret not going to your service. As you know I had just started a new job and was in training but if I had to do it all over again I would go, no job is that important. I know your family all had each other to lean on but you did trust me as Kristin's God mother and I feel like I let her down and should have been there. It's hard living so far away, but it has been the best for Nicole and now that she is moving to North Carolina without her mom I ask you to watch over her too and keep her safe. The world is just such a different place then it was back when it seemed we would all grow old together and always have each other. It's been a year and they say only time heals but I'm afraid it's going to be long long dang time before the empty feeling goes away, and truly I don't think it will. But I do try and think "what would Chris do" how would she expect one of her friends to handle things when they don't go our way, I try and draw from the remarkable strength you always had, that unending optimism that you were so known for. Please visit me in my dreams often and let me know your spirit is close and with me. I miss you so much girlfriend...but as the song goes..." I could have missed the pain, but then I would have had to miss the dance". Chris
Jenny Gruber
July 6, 2008
It is still so hard for all of us to believe that a year has already come and gone. We were all up at the cabin this weekend and had a wonderful time while thinking of you and all of the memories shared up there together. Although today was hard, I think it brought comfort to know that once again the family and close friends were all together leaning on and comforting each other. I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels your presence up there at the cabin. Just today there was a beautiful black and white butterfly flying around so close to everyone. Linda and I stopped to admire it and I thought to myself "she's here with us...always watching over everyone". Grandma Pat read a beautiful letter when we all went to the site today. Many tears were shed as we all looked back on the year past and how much you are missed. We all know you were there with us, watching over us and blessing us once again. Here is to a wonderful daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. A woman gone but not forgotten, missed but always there, in thought, in spirit, and in prayer.
Love, Jenny and all of your family
Judy Krensing
July 5, 2008
Christy I think about you everyday,and when the day is done you are always in my prayers.It's so very hard to believe that you've been gone for a year.Everyone misses you so much.Give Grandpa and Granma a hug for me.Love you Forever.Aunt Jude
Gwen Jackson
June 19, 2008
Hi Chris,
I'm just sitting here at a Temp. job today. Not much to do. Iwas thinking about you like I do everyday. I always say hi to you every morning when I look at your beautiful piture your Mom and Dad gave me. Give grandma and grandpa a big hug for me.
Love,
Aunt Gwen
Pat Heroff
May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day Crissy from your MaMa,
Well we have had our first Mother's Day without you. It is so hard to see everyone so sad, and missing you so much on this special day. I just want you to know, how proud I am to be your mother, and I sure missed your visit today, and the great talks we always had. Mother's Day is such a special day, and we sure made the most of them. I got out some of the cards you have given me, and I am so grateful for our relationship, and how much you loved me, and so glad that I saved those cards. You always brought me those great yard ornaments, and I can hear Dad saying, where the heck are you going to put that now, and you would just wink, and we would laugh. He would give anything to have you here to bring a lawn ornament now. He went to the cabin last week, and stopped over where God took your spirit. He took the plastic off of your cross and stabilized it a little. Your presence is felt there, and it still seems so unbelievable. Today we went out to visit you in your resting place. Hope you enjoy the flowers and the cards, and the balloon we sent up, wishing you a Happy Mother's Day in Heaven. It really took off, as if it knew the destination it was heading for. We went and visited our moms too. Maybe you could wish them a Happy Mother's Day for us. Well, honey, once more, Happy Mother's Day! We love and miss you very, very much!! Hugs from Your MaMa & Dad
Kristin Quinlan
May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day Mom,
Just a note to tell you we miss you so much. Mother's Day just isn't the same with you not here. We went out to visit you and brought you flowers, and a balloon. Uncle Greg thought we should cut the balloon and let it go up to you. It went up and up until we couldn't see it any more. I love you Mom and miss you more that you know! I know you are with me, and I need you to help me through the hard times! It is hard to say Happy Mother's Day, because it isn't as happy as it would be if you were here, but I know you are happy in heaven!
Love and miss you! Kristin Rae(Punk)
Patricia Heroff
April 6, 2008
Dear Chris,
Just a note to tell you we went up to the cabin this weekend to stay, and go to Brad's Golden Glove fight in Hinkley. It is hard to go to the cabin, as I can still see you riding away on your bike that fateful day. Big smile, and telling me not to worry, because your guardian angel is riding with you. Dad and I stopped over today at the place where your spirit left you, and went to heaven. It is still unbelievable to me that I will never be able to hug you and see your smiling face again. We left your cross covered, as they said there was going to be more snow today. The deer path goes right through where you were riding. I console myself, thinking she must have been protecting her young, as I wish I could have been there protecting you. I was straightening out drawers in the cabin, and I came across some of your flannel pjs, and one of those humongous sun tops you made for yourself. You were ingenious at sewing and creating some unique outfits for yourself! :)
Stick with me honey, help me through the tough times! Cabin time will never be the same. I know you will be with us, as you loved it up there. Your little trailer will stay, with all the flowers, as you left it, and the cross Mark made stands beside it. Your kids and little grandkids will bring it alive this summer! You live on, in all of them!!
Dad and I Love and Miss you so much!
Love, Mom
Linda Ayde
April 6, 2008
Christy!
DARN IT, I MISS YOU! And there is not a darn thing anybody can do about it! Christy I keep thinking about my up coming Wedding this Friday April 11th, and the reception on Saturday the 12th.........You don't know how hard it was to not send out an invite to you, well your invited anyways, I know you will be there in spirit! A lot has happened since you have been visiting God. I am so happy and doing well. I know you would of loved Tommy my new husband and he would of loved you too! Man where does the time go.........I read what your daughter punky wrote and balled my eyes out. You sure have a wonderful daughter and I know all your children, grandchildren, parents, friends, aunts, uncles.......ect.......MISS THE HECK OUT OF YOU! I will make sure I sing a song at my reception just for you! Love you big! Linda Ayde (New Name) Don't think of the general anymore (Mills my old name) lol
Cherrie Jackson
April 4, 2008
Christy,
I don't know where to start! I guess I could start with how much I miss you! There are certain times when I wake up from sleeping, and cannot believe you aren't here with us. It breaks my heart to think I won't see you here on earth anymore. The memories are fun to think of, but it still isn't right, there won't be anymore memories made with you!!! It hurts so much. I haven't went to a red hat thing either, since the last time we were both there. It just doesn't seem like it would be right. I might go to something soon, and try it out. I know I will miss you so much if I do though. Or, how bout that church you dragged me to in Minneapolis?! I couldn't get you out of there!!! It was so funny. I wonder sometimes if you ever told anyone about that night. Something very good happened to you that night. Who ever would have thought this would happen after that?! Pretty crazy. Well, I hope you had a wild Birthday up there. I'm quite sure you did. I can't wait to see you again Christy!!! Also, watch over them children of yours - They definitely need you! I think I need to come talk to you too, so I will be there soon. Talk at ya later!
With lots of love and tears, Cherrie
P.S. Your buddy Tony misses you too!!! And I wish you could have seen Kira. Well, I guess you do see her.
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