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Monday,
December 27, 1999 |
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[NewBug]
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Mitch Perry |
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Katherine
Anne Perry (Katie) Born
March 24,1982 Went to heaven December 25, 1999 Age
17, Senior at The Cottage School in Roswell, Georgia In
Lieu of sending flowers,
there is a trust at her school: The Cottage School 700 Grimes
Bridge Road Roswell,
Georgia 30075 770 641 8688 The
funeral will be Weds 1pm at: Elliott
Sons Funeral Home 2524
Lumpkin Road Augusta,
Georgia 706-793-0123 Memorial
Service in Roswell, Georgia at: St.
David’s Episcopal Old
Roswell Road Monday
January 3, 2000 7pm Katie
was always my angel and even though she hits some bumps in the road, I
always loved her. I miss her so much. She was so happy the last few days
of her life, she was excited about going to college, enjoyed being with me
and life in general. She just glowed with love and joy. Katie
was with me for about 10 days over the holidays. We had a great time,
going the Zoo for the light display and McWayne Center & Imax. Then we
left Thursday for my parents in Florida for the few days and then on to
Panama City for two days, before going back home. We had a great trip down
and after midnight on Christmas Eve Katie opened one of her presents, a
Pikachu. Then I got sick and
spent all day Christmas Eve in bed. But Katie spent time with her
grandparents and was so happy. Christmas I was still sick, but got up to
open presents. About noon we headed for Panama City. We went up I-75 to
I-10, I drove until we got to the interstate and then let Katie drive,
since she was not good with a 5 speed. I was nodding off occasionally, but
Katie was talking non-stop about her life. She was so excited her
grandfather showed her how to shoot an air gun. Then we stopped for fuel
and she was so proud of herself that she was able to shift through the
gears without stalling or jerking the car. I was so proud of her too. We
probably had only been back on the road about 50 minutes or so, when I
guess Katie fell asleep at the wheel. I woke up when we ran off the road
and realized we were going to hit a callbox post. It was just a few
seconds before we hit it, Katie never made a sound, never tried to avoid
it, and I never saw her, even though she was sitting next to me. When we
hit the post, the car started to flip, reportedly 5 times, when it
stopped, it was upside-down, I unfastened my seat belt and looked over at
Katie, but could not see her because of the airbags and she never made a
sound. I crawled out of the window and passed out. When I woke up again
the paramedics where putting a board under me. I asked about Katie and was
only told that other people were working on her. Finally in the emergency
room, the doctor told me that she was gone, but died instantly. I
am generally ok, minor cuts and bruises, I just wish that pole had hit the
right front corner rather than the left front corner. I still can't
believe she is gone. I love her so much and I now have a huge whole in my
heart. To
Katie please save me a place with you, I hope to see you in the future
someday again. I hope those wings fit ok. Love, Dad |
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(no
subject) From: Ester Brock <brocks@efn.org> |
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Mitch, I
don't know what to say. Except
that I am soo sorry for you and our thoughts and prayers are with you now. Ester |
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bad
news From: “Howie Lipton" <isetahow@idirect.com> |
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Hi
Mitch. We
are very shocked to hear of the bad news!
It's like losing a member of the family, because Katie was. I
will write you later. I'm
sure you are very busy with other things right now.
This is just a short note to express our wishes and sadness. Howie |
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................ From: "David W. Allen" <davida@airmail.net> |
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My
God, Mitch. I just heard the news about the accident. You have my deepest
sympathies ... I don’t really know what to say - it's such a shock.
Please let me know if there's anything I can do. I'll
send another note when I can figure out what to say - but my heart is with
you. |
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Katie From:
UB45@aol.com |
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Mitch, I
want to offer my sincere condolences of the loss of Katie. What a
beautiful young woman she was!!! She brought joy and pleasure to people
she had never met with her posts to the list and sunshine into the lives
of those who met her. Please
let me know if there is anything I can do for you. My thoughts &
prayers are with you and your family. Debbie
(NewBug list) |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
"Pat Elliott" <pelliott@bcbsal.org> |
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Mitch, This
is beautiful. We know how
much you loved her. We are
hurting with you. |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Dhxon@aol.com |
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Mitch, Thank
you for this beautiful message. I
love you and I wish you to know the message that you sent to all has been
well received. You are a
beautiful person with more missions in life. We know Katie is with us
every minute. We pray that the loneliness ceases and that it is replaced
with a bright light. My
thoughts are with you as I continue to say prayers for all of you. With
love, @nnie |
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(no
subject)
"August Branchesi" <muja@visi.net> |
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Mitch, I
am very sorry for your loss. I
try to believe that our maker has some sort of plan and that there is a
reason why things like this happen. I
know its difficult. Hang
in there Mitch. |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
"Steve Meister" <the.meisters@erols.com> |
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Mitch,
our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies go out to you today. I am so
sorry to hear about this; meeting you and Katie was one of our fondest
memories of this past summer. If there is ANYTHING we can do, please let
us know. All
the best, Steve
& Christiane Meister |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day "Donald
Blair" <dblair@bcbsal.org> |
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Mitch, I
practically don't know you at all except through E-mail.
I don't have a daughter or even a child.
I can't even grasp what you're feeling.
All I can offer is to pray for you periodically while you adjust.
You've clearly got a good perspective, but that isn't going to make
it easier to deal with. I
hurt so much for you even though I can't imagine your despair. Just know that there are people thinking of you . . . Thanks, Donald |
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RE:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: TPearson@MADISONDM.COM |
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oh
mitch, i am so sorry. i'm sitting here reading this and not believing it.
you were just telling us all about your wonderful travels with her this
summer... i cannot believe it. i'm sitting here at my desk at work in
shock, and very choked up about your news. i don't know what to say. i'm
just so sorry. just know i'm thinking of you and your family. i feel that
hole in your heart from here. my
sincerest sympathies, tabby |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day From:
"Laura" <llgrafix@concentric.net> |
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May
God watch over Your Angel, and now our angel, too. Mitch, I'm so sorry to
hear of your terrible loss, I have a daughter of 16, Amanda, and worry
constantly about her, even though she lives with her father, And I know
the grief you are going through. Thank you for sharing her wonderful
personality with us on the list, she will be missed by us all. Much
Love and Sympathy, Laura
and Cricket |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day From:
SunnyLChan@aol.com |
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Oh
my God, what happened to your lovely daughter?
We have no idea! We
don't know what to say any more, we are very sorry to hear the sad news on
the loss of your daughter. I
remembered I met her at your Christmas party two years ago, she was a
beautiful and bright young lady. Why
God is so unfair? She has a
great future ahead of her, why it has to taken away from her at such a
young age. With our deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one,
may God lead her into heaven, she will be an angel in our heart too. Sincere
condolence, Sunny
and Linda. |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Carter" <acarter@techline.com> |
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Mitch,
there are no words to express my profound sadness for you.
As a parent of teenagers myself, I can only imagine how horrible
this must be for you. I will not say that I understand because I don't.
I wish there was something that I could say that would help but I
am at a loss for words. I will pray for you and yours during this time.
My heart is bleeding for you. Take care and let us know how you are
doing. Judy |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Amie Wiggins" <awiggins@bcbsal.org> |
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Mitch,
I know that nothing I say can relieve your sadness or sense of loss, but
please know that you and your family are in my prayers. Please let me know
if there's anything I can do for you. With
love, Amie |
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Good
Morning!! From: Inez E Hendrix <mscricket@juno.com> |
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Hi
honey we both thought that was a sweet message of Katie and we will praise
her for being so brave to try to drive.
She was helping you to get well and don’t worry about that she
was doing her part. She
is sleeping in peace and with the Lord with all the other Angels and I
know she probably did not know what happen and no pain. Had she been save
she might have been an invalid and not telling what other things.
So the Dear Lord know best. Hope you will be over the flu and the
bruises and take care of yourself and we love you and Shirley with all our
heart and hope you all have a happy life to meet her. Write
me did you get your Lap comp ok?? With
prayers Cricket
and Shorty |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day From:
Randy Carlson <bugnbox@earthlink.net> |
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What
do you write when you are in shock? I
had the pleasure of meeting Mitch and Katie on their trip out west and sat
during our lunch and talked with Katie in length about her plans for the
future and her views on life. I must say she was one of the most vibrant
humans I have ever met. Her excitement about life and what lay ahead of
her was like watching fireworks on the 4th of July. I'll
make this short, as I am certain this thread will be a popular one, as
Mitch and Katie are both well known members of the list.... Katie,
thanks for the bright light you shined on me during our brief visit. This
picture of youth and excitement is the way you will be remembered by me,
as I am sure you will be remembered by many. Mitch
and family (insert hug here) I am so very sorry to hear of this crazy turn
of events and your incredible loss. I am not a wildly religious man, but
you have my prayers and love. I am certain you have the love and prayers
of the powers that be as well. Grab on to them and let them give you the
strength to cope and carry on. God
bless you all.. Sincerely Randy
Carlson |
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[NewBug]
Special request From: "David W. Allen" <davida@airmail.net> |
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Let's
interrupt normal mail list traffic and everyone who has a special memory
of Katie Perry please relate your story. I know lots of you have met Mitch
and Katie on their many cross-country treks. Here's mine: I
was friends with Mitch and Katie - met them on their cross-country tour
last spring. We spent two great days caravaning and sightseeing in Dallas,
all across Texas, and into Roswell, NM. Katie and I talked on the radios
between cars almost constantly and we all had lots of fun, and we've kept
in touch since then. Mitch had ordered her a pair of New Beetle
slippers as a present, and I threw in some extra stuff to make it
more special. I've
just been sick since I read the news, and this morning I went to Mitch's
site and looked through all the pictures of he and Katie traveling across
the country. And the pictures of her driving her own NB home really broke
my heart. I had cut her some custom decals for the car and the words
"Lil' Angel" under a NB logo. That was her radio 'handle'. She
was very special and I'll miss her. |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Stan & Donna" <smiwee@enter.net> |
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Mitch,
there's not much to say at this time of your terrible loss, other than we
are so sorry! This is every parent's nightmare and we wish you strength
getting through this
time. Stan
& Donna |
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Bless
you From: "Dennis
& Anna Hooper" <dnaeg@jps.net> |
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I
am so sorry to hear of your loss. All though you don't know me, I am a
member of the nblist. My
name is Anna Hooper, I live in ELk Grove California. My heart breaks for
you and your family today. I have lost my little brother when he was 18
years in a car accident, and my son at 18 months in a accident.
There is no greater pain than losing a child. I am the mother of,
Amber who will be 20 soon. And a step- Daughter Erica, soon
to be 19. The
times spent together with your Katie during the holidays are sure to be a
blessing to you. I just wanted you to know my thoughts are with you now
and in the coming years. I hope your injuries are minor, as i realize the
pain in your heart is greater than any other pain know to mankind. I just
wanted you to know my thoughts are with you. God
bless you and your family during this difficult time. From
the heart, Anna
Hooper |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Thomas Ainlay <tma@cicllc.com> |
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Mitch, There
is nothing I can say really that would fully express my sadness for you
and your loss. I really
enjoyed reading your travels with her. Thomas |
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Re:I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Chris Schmidt
<christopher.schmidt@kodak.com> |
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Mitch, As
a father of three that loves his kids, and a person that lost a good
friend and Uncle 4 days ago, I feel your grief. Daughters
and Fathers have a special bond between each other. Remember the good times and try to cope with your loss. You,
and your daughter will be in my prayers. Chris |
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Your
Angel From: Phil
Teves <philteves@worldnet.att.net> |
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Dear
Mitch, I
am so sorry to hear about your loss. My family sends their deepest regrets
and sympathy to you and your family. --
Regards, Phil
Teves Internet
Sales Consultant ScottVw.Com |
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I
lost my Angel on Christmas Day From: "Coleman, Anne" <Anne.Coleman@USPTO.GOV> |
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Mitch, I
am so very sorry for your loss. Words
cannot describe the sorrow I feel for you, your wife and family.
I enjoyed meeting you and Katie when you came to Washington, D.C.,
this past Summer. Katie was
so full of life and it was so apparent she was the sunshine in your eyes.
I cannot image the pain and grief you are going through at this
time losing a daughter. May
God be with you during this time of sorrow.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Anne
Coleman |
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To
you and your family From:
Angel9025@aol.com |
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Dear
Mr. Perry, I
do not know you or your daughter but I feel your loss deeply.
I too have lost 2 loved ones during the holidays due to a similar
car accident and cancer. I am so sorry that this had to happen to you and your
family. My only advice is to
remember what you loved the most about Katie and forget any sad times.
She will be waiting for you in heaven.
I know that it is very hard to accept the loss of someone so young
but i believe that it is truly because god decided he just couldn’t wait
any longer to have her by his side. God knows an angel when he sees one!
My thoughts are with you, peace to you and your family.
Sincerely
Eliza Mason |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Steve Meister" <the.meisters@erols.com> |
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Christiane
and I met Katie and her pop, Mitch, this past summer when they came
through the DC area. We arranged that month's DCNB gathering to coincide
with their visit. We had a great day, and Katie's enthusiasm and
continuous joy were infectious. She talked about the New Beetle she hoped
to get; about how she and a friend of hers were planning to drive out to
R2K, etc. Katie and Mitch's visit was certainly one of the high points of
the 1999 for us, and Katie will always remain in our hearts and memories.
I'm sure she affected everyone she met in this way. --
Steve & Christiane Meister |
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I
lost my angel on Christmas Day From:
"Judy Kuhnle" <jkuhnle@globaldialog.com> |
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Dear
Mitch, My
heart and prayers go out you and your family. Through my tears I write
this. I remember the trips
you two took and shared with us on the list.
I remember the rainy day in Chicago meeting you and Katie.
I remember the sweet young girl who loved NB's and couldn't wait to
get one of her own. I remembered when we all submitted names for her New Beetle
and how proud we all were of her. I
remember the love you two shared as
you shared with us the adventures of your trip and how she almost ran into
the McDonald's store front. Hold
on to those memories, Mitch. Judy,
Jerry, and LadyBug |
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Re:
Deposits? From:
Jim Brooks <cpainnorcross@mindspring.com> |
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Mitch, I
am so sorry. Jim |
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So
Sorry From: "Leah Kenworthy" <lkenworthy@abm.com> |
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Dear
Mitch, I
was saddened to read your post on the NB list about losing Katie. I've
been a subscriber since the middle of the year and always enjoyed your
stories you sent us and the journals of your adventures on your website.
Katie was always an integral part of those tales and the way you wrote,
her personality always shone through. I send my thoughts and prayers to
you and your family. Sincerely, Leah |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Michael Levine <txmrlevine@excite.com> |
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Mitch, My
thoughts and prayers are with you and your family on this worst of
occasions that came at what is supposed to be a very uplifting time.
I am sitting at my machine sick to my stomach thinking how such a
vibrant an wonderful women could have been taken from all of us. She
is looking over you now Mitch. I
am sure she appreciated seeing the world last year like she did and she is
with God now. He
must have something very meaningful for her to do so he decided to take
her. We
all have and Angel now. We
love and Miss you Katie. Michael On
Mon, 27 Dec 1999 10:08:29 -0600, Mitch Perry wrote: >
Katherine Anne Perry (Katie) >
Born March 24,1982 Went to heaven December 25, 1999 >
Age 17, Senior at The Cottage School in Roswell, Georgia |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day From:
"Kristine Barraco" <kbarraco@hotmail.com> |
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Mitch, My
first reaction is to say I can only imagine what you are going
through...the fact is, as a parent, I cannot.
My mind will not even allow me to imagine the grief in which you
and your family must feel. So
many of us on this list have had the pleasure of meeting your dear Katie,
and for those who had not had the pleasure of meeting her in person on
your great adventures, you shared her with us with those great stories of
traveling the road together in your NBs. It
has been said before that this list is very different than most of the
other "car" lists, as we are often more like a family group.
Well today I must agree. As I
feel as though we have all lost one of our own.
I was just a few months ago you took time out of your trip to come
to visit me, and many others, and Katie was truly an angel. A full
spirited girl. Do what you need to keep your spirits up, as you know in
your heart that is what she would want. I
for one will have bread today. No butter, no jelly, just bread. And Katie,
I promise never to pay for the tour at Fenway Park...I will just stroll in
Like I know what I'm doing. KB |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Steve Meister" <the.meisters@erols.com> |
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For
those of you who haven't seen Mitch's web site, you should check it out: Mitch
& Katie painstakingly chronicled their road trips and NB experiences,
and it's filled with wonderful pictures and accounts from both Mitch &
Katie. For
those of us who were fortunate enough to know Katie, it's a great reminder
of what a wonderful person she was, and how even though the time we spent
with her was brief, she touched our hearts. For
those of you who didn't get a chance to meet her, go to the site and get
to know her. Thanks
Mitch, for sharing these adventures with us. |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From:
Dan LaMee <dan15@home.com> |
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Mitch, I
really don't know what to say. When I read the e-mail I too was in shock.
I hadn't had the chance to meet Katie and can't begin to imagine what you
must be going through. But, my thoughts and prayers are with you and I'm
sure she is watching over you. Dan
LaMee List, I
have added a Herbie story that I'm sure you all will want to check out.
It's called Katie's Gift and may be viewed at http://www.newbug.org/fth/survivors.html
(click on "Katie's Gift") or Directly at http://www.newbug.org/fth/katie.html.
Also, take time to sign the guest book that I've set up, which is linked
to on that page. Thanks very much. Dan |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Jeffrey A. Croft" <jcroft@newbeetle.org> |
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Mitch
and all- I
haven't been on this list nearly as long as some of you, and I've never
had the pleasure of meeting you or Katie. That
said, I do recall this: When
I was looking at new cars a few months back, and considering a NB, I spent
many hours on the web looking at sites of NB owners and drivers. I
stumbled across yours, and saw the pics of Katie with her car. I just
remember thinking..."Now there's the way it should be...she's so
happy with her car." You can tell by the look in her eyes that it was
a big day for her, and that she was a very special, sincere person. It's
extremely obvious to me that she was an amazing girl, and I know from the
pictures that she was beautiful and joyful. I, too, am a parent (albeit a
young one) and the thought of losing my daughter is terrifying. I am not a
particularly spiritual person, but I feel certain that she is in a better
place, looking over us all. And, if these pictures are any indication,
she's smiling. Sincerely, Jeff
Croft |
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Our
sympathies for your loss
From: "Rex and Suzanne Payne" <rexsuzi@flash.net> |
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Dear
Mitch, We
are so very sorry to hear of the loss of Katie. She was such a sweet kid.
We had all grown to know and admire her through the list serve.
Your New Beetle adventures together made us all smile, and envy the
closeness you two shared. I
know you must be devastated with unspeakable grief.
You'll be in our hearts and prayers in the coming weeks and months. Suzanne
and Rex Payne Junebug
and Chigger |
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(no
subject) From: Benoît Fortin <benfor@globetrotter.qc.ca> |
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Hi
Mitch, This
is Benoit from Quebec, I just read your message on the mailing list today, I am so sorry to hire what
happen to you and your daughter. I wish you my sincere sympathy and I hope
that you're going to be o.k. sincerely
yours. Benoit
Fortin |
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[NewBug]
Loss of an angel From: "ElecMoHwk" <elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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I've
just found out about this from a fellow list member who forwarded on to me
the news. I have been going
back and forth in my head about what is up and what is down for a few
hours now. It's always hard to hear of someone's loss, especially one so
great. But having the unfortunate experience of meeting Katie, I now know
a bit more detailed how it feels. I
do say unfortunate, but do not mean it in a bad sense at all.
I have always been pained when I hear of someone's adventures in
this world coming to an end. It's
just that, I feel especially strong in this instance, because Katie was
someone I had the pleasure of spending even a moment with. Mitch
and Katie's trip up north to the DC area, on their way to driverfest, was
my first time out to meet many of you, and was when I had the chance to
meet them as well. Katie and
I had a few moments to speak to each other here and there, and there was
nothing but child like curiosity, wild adventure, and innocent cheer about
her. She was a very special
person. I only had one day to
know her, but that is more than anyone needed, to know how incredible of a
young woman she was. I am
fortunate to have that day, but unfortunate to have only that day. It
is unfortunate, for everyone, to have a loss such as this. Mitch,
my heart goes out to you and your family.
If there is anything I can do to help you through this time or any
other. Please don't hesitate to let me know. Katie.... @}--`--,--------------------------- ::
ElecMoHwk (elecmohwk@dashin.org) |
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Your
daughter From:
Diane Wirth <dianewirth@yahoo.com> |
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Dear
Mitch, I
am so terribly sorry to hear about your loss. I never know what to say to
people when something like this happens. There are no words that sound
right. But I have enjoyed yours and Katie's contributions to the list so
much, that I felt that I should Write
and say how sorry I am. With
kind regards, Diane,
Captain of the USS Emily |
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Beloved
Katie From: Jujubskt@aol.com |
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Mitch,
we heard the news, which Rolland read early this morning before he left
for the office. I was just
about to start getting dressed when he called me in and told me the news.
We were both devastated. I
immediately went and pulled out a photo of Katie which I took when you
were in Oregon in June. She's
sitting in the driver's seat of Blue Eyes, going through the envelope of
list stickers, looking for ones to give those of us who were
"sticker-less". After
I finally pulled myself together enough to get dressed and head out for
the day, I had to get in Paris, and see that sticker on the rear window.
It was all I could do to drive, but then I knew Katie was watching,
and would expect me to still love my car, still love my life, and know
that she was okay. I knew
also that her greatest concern would be her daddy, and how he was doing. I've
kept her photo with me all day. Right
now it's sitting on my desk here in the office. Tonight I'll slip it back into my purse and carry it with
me. I've had the usual hectic Monday, but I keep thinking of Katie, and
you, and holding you both in my heart.
We went through this four years ago when a close friend lost her
son in a single car accident. It
was difficult, then, because he was someone we lived in the same town
with, and saw often. But this
is in its own way this is even more difficult.
Katie was such a bright and shining star.
She was 100% effervescent bubbles all the time, at least it seemed
that way to us. I remember so
well that day in June when you came through Oregon.
I remember giving her the little Margaret Furlong angel, Her
admiring our puppy, having lunch at the Oregon Berry Inn (and her asking
for rolls immediately!), and her punching your arm continuously when we
were seeing
all the bugs on their way to the VW meet.
I remember you were so tremendously tired, and kind of quiet, while
she was the complete opposite! I
called Ester this morning, to make sure she had heard.
We commiserated over how helpless we felt, not knowing what we
could do to support you, and yet knowing we had to feel like we were doing
something. I told her all we
can do right now is email you, and tell you how much we care and how much
we love you. I've
now read your email to the list, and couldn't even finish it, just saved
it as new to read later this evening.
I've got to get through the afternoon at work, and then run an
errand to Eugene this evening. Then
I can come home and fall apart, and grieve some more. Please
know we are sharing your pain, however small ours is compared to how huge
we know yours is. We loved
Katie, as did many. Love,
Judy and Paris |
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your
Angel From: "Meghan Ventresca" <meghanv@nb.net> |
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Mitch..
I don't know what to say and I can't even begin to imagine what you feel.
I just wanted to say I was sorry.
Keep smiling, I know that's what your Katie would want. Meghan
& Ruby (from
nb list) |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: Stephanie Koutek <skoutek@yahoo.com> |
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Mitch
(and family), I'm so sorry. I can't even imagine what you're going
through. It breaks my heart to hear that someone so vibrant and full of
life is gone. I
had the pleasure of meeting Katie and Mitch this summer near the end of
their 18-day trip when they stopped to meet me for a late dinner in
Indiana. I told everyone I knew about
their visit and how excited I was to meet them, and they definitely lived
up to my expectations! Katie
was a great storyteller. During dinner, she talked about her friends back
home and the trip and all the adventures she and Mitch had had so far. She
could talk faster than almost anyone I've ever met, and she barely stopped
talking long enough to eat! Watching Mitch and Katie reminded me of taking
road trips to Maryland with my dad, and hearing Katie's stories about
driving made me remember when my dad taught me to drive a 5-speed. I
looked forward to reading Katie's accounts of her trip on the list.
She always had something special to point out, and she frequently
mentioned how neat it was for her to spend this time with her dad. She was
pretty insightful at 17. Though
they were few, I'll miss her enthusiastic posts to the list. Mitch, you
and your family are in my thoughts. --Stephanie
Koutek |
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[NewBug]
Loss of an angel From: "Stacy Dale" <sdale@roadone.com> |
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Mitch
we are all in shock over your sad news. My heart sank as I read about the
tragedy. It was wonderful meeting you last spring in Chicago, Katie was a
beautiful young woman and was so full of life. We all enjoyed sharing your
many adventures, and we will always remember Katie and her wonderful
outlook on life. She will be deeply missed. Our hearts go out to you and
your family.. Stacy |
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Katie From: Janet Kreischer <janet@nwe.ufl.edu> |
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Hi
Mitch, It
has been half an hour since I read your note. I thought I would be able to sit down and write now, but
find I have to wait for my eyes to clear each time I get started again.
I am so sorry to hear of Katie's death.
Even though you and I have spent only a few (two I think, when you
stopped in Gainesville to see Anthony) visits together, it was quite
evident how much you and Katie enjoyed each other and how much you love
her. I know that you and she
both will be missing the other. Keep
talking to her, she can hear you. Take
care of yourself, Janet |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From:
"Mary Ensley" <mensley@bcbsal.org> |
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My
deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. I can not imagine
anything more horrible. I wish there were words to say or something I
could do, but I know there really isn't. At least she had to know how much
she meant to you, and you spent a lot of quality time with her. Wherever
she is now, she is well and she and I are hoping that you will be also. me |
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[NewBug]
I lost my Angel on Christmas day From: "bingee" <bingee@wmis.net> |
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Mitch, I
never met Katie, but had the pleasure of exchanging emails with her. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and
your family. Heaven
is a little brighter Bruce
and Bumble-Bee |
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May
memories comfort you - from Ben Boyle
From:
pboyle@centurytel.net (Ben Boyle) |
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You
have just received an electronic card from Ben Boyle You can pick up your
personal message by using the following Web location. http://www2.bluemountain.com/cards/box7385f/ikk9jfuyijkdre.htm (Your
card will be available for the next 90 days) |
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[NewBug]
Re: Digest newbug.v002.n163
From: CANDS1275@aol.com |
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I
do not know you but I do know the pain of losing a loved one, my prayers
are with you. Carolyn
and Tumblebug |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Tyler Thompson" <tthompso@edwin.mounet.com> |
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Mitch,
I am so sorry to hear about this. I can't believe that I am actually
reading what you typed. That is so sad. She was such a nice and happy
girl, it was a pleasure to meet her. She seemed to live life to fullest
and had a lot of fun doing it. My thoughts and prayers are with you and
your family. It will be hard I'm sure but she is in a better place, and
you can see her in heaven. Once again, I'm very sorry to hear about this
and my prayers are with you and your family. Tyler
Thompson |
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[NewBug]
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Richard Gue" <RGue@home.com> |
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Mitch,
I just read your message and I feel so sorry that I can't think straight.
I'll write again when my brain settles down a bit and I can think
better. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to everyone in your
family. Katie will be greatly missed. Dick,
and the rest of the Gue family. |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: Alaskan Sheets <vsheets@mtaonline.net> |
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I
never had the chance to meet Mitch or Katie due to being to far north.
However they came very much alive in my household through their trips.
Katie’s personality real shined through in her postings and her photos.
It was with a very heavy heart that I read Mitch's posting tonight. Our
prayers and thoughts are with you. The
Sheets |
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My
sympathies From:
"Eric Anderson" <mbitsko@uswest.net> |
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Dear
Mitch, I
read about your tragic loss on Fred's TDI Forum. You have my deepest sympathy.
I can't imagine anything as wrenching as the loss of a child. Gary
reprinted your New Beetle mailing list post on the Forum.
It sounds like your daughter's last days were happy ones, spent
with the people she loved most. I
hope that as time passes the memory of your loss will fade, while the
memory of the time you had with Katie will grow stronger. I
know that many people in Fred's Forum will wish to make some gesture of
sympathy. Your note indicated
that donations to The Cottage School Foundation should be sent in lieu of
flowers. That sounds like a
great idea! To whom should we
make out the checks? The
mailing address has already been provided in Gary's post. Again,
please accept my deepest sympathies. Sincerely, Eric
Anderson ("mickey") |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: Thomas Bell <tombell@idirect.com> |
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Mitch, Sincere
condolences from Tom & Karla Bell. It will always be good memories of
you & Katie. Tom |
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[NewBug]
Mitch's Angel From: Stephen McNabb <stevemcn@bellsouth.net> |
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Such
a sad tragedy. I'm
totally stunned. Mitch,
my heart goes out to you..... Stephen
McNabb |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: John Hoeppel <J-Hoeppel@neiu.edu> |
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Mitch, I
don't know what to say. I met
you and Katie on that rainy day in Chicago (Bugfest, in the pouring rain,
with Judy, Kirk and a bunch of others) and I was tickled that you and
Katie were travelling cross-country together. Katie
and I talked about the trip, about the places she'd seen and the people
she'd met. My own daughter -
also a "Katie" - is about the same age and the idea of a road
trip together struck me as the perfect way to talk about life, share
little observations, laugh together, get grumpy together. I know she
brought a twinkle to the eyes of many throughout your journeys. I
feel so bad... Know that our
thoughts are with you,
~John |
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RE:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Matthew Kitch" <mattkitch@home.com> |
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Mitch, I
would like to extend to you my deepest, heartfelt sympathy.
I applaud you on your strength through these difficult times.
With a tear in my eye I wish you peace.
I will ask my mother, who left us August 1st 1998, to look after
Katie as if she were the daughter she never had. With
Love and Sincerity, Matthew
Kitch |
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[NewBug]
Katie From:
"Tina Ward" <tward@bscn.com> |
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Mitch, I
am very sorry to hear of your loss. I
never had the opportunity to meet Katie in person but we did exchange a
few e-mails when she had her tonsils removed.
I have carried
around a poem that was given to me when I had the wreck that my mother
died in and it helped me a lot. Maybe
it will ease your pain a little too. The
Rose Still Grows Near
shady wall a rose once grew, Budded
and blossomed in God's free light, Watered
and fed by morning dew, Shedding
its sweetness day and night. As
it grew and blossomed fair and tall, Slowly
rising to loftier height, It
came to a crevice in the wall, Through
which there shone a beam of light. Onward
it crept with added strength, With
never a thought of fear or pride. It
followed the light through the crevice-length And
unfolded itself on the other side. The
light, the dew, the broadening view, Were
found the same as they were before. And
it lost itself in beauties new, Breathing
its fragrance more and more. Shall
claim of death cause us to grieve And
make our courage faint or fall? Nay,
let us faith and hope receive, The
rose still grows beyond the wall. Scattering
fragrance far and wide, Just
as it did in days of yore. Just
as it did on the other side, Just
as it will forevermore. (by
A.L. Frink)
, --'---,
,-/_____\-,
(o\_\X/_/o) Ladybug ; )
'-' ° ° '-' SYIR Tina
Ward Muleskinner
Farm Walnut
Ridge Arkansas |
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Katie From: JOHNJSCHULLER@aol.com |
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Mitch,
I had to read your e-mail twice, I simply could not believe it. I
was lucky enough to meet you and Katie when you made your stop at the
Chicago VW show this summer. As a parent myself I cannot even begin to
imagine how you must feel. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God
be with you and watch over you and give you strength. John
& "Angel" |
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RE:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From:
Wayne Repich <wrepich@vanacc.com> |
|
Mitch, It's
been 12 hours since I read your e-mail, and hardly an hour has gone by
that I've not thought of you and Katie.
Though we've never met, I have read your e-mails, viewed your
website, looked at your pictures, and been aware of the wonderful
cross-country trek that you both took earlier this year.
I've not been able to even think straight to write anything, except
to send a token check to the Trust. She
was an amazing girl -- to have touched so many hearts, and all at the
tender age of 17. I've no
doubt she exemplified youth at it's finest, and this world will miss her
and her special touch. I'm
sure you feel very proud of her, and after having read all of the comments
from those whose heart's she touched, you should feel proud of having
raised such a precious child. My
thoughts are with you, and your family during this horrific time. Wayne
Repich |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From:
Eric Via <ericvia@airmail.net> |
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I
am also very saddened to read of this tragedy.... If
there's any thing or any way I can help I'm here for you my friend.
:-( Eric
& Gumby 2000
Turbonium (Cybergreen) GLS 1.8T 3K Wylie,
TX |