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Tuesday, December 28,
1999 |
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[NewBug]
:-( From: "Ben Boyle" <pboyle@centurytel.net> |
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To
Mitch, I
am sorry to hear about your recent loss. I myself have experienced pain in
my life and I am at a loss to explain how to deal with it. They say that
time heals all wounds, and they are very much correct. May you get through
these difficult times and continue to prosper. |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Jujubskt@aol.com |
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In
a message dated 12/27/1999 8:36:09 AM Pacific Standard Time, nb_mitch@yahoo.com
writes: <<
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. >> Our
hearts are heavy today. Mitch's
description of Katie's last few days is a perfect description of how she
was the day we met her last June when they came through Oregon on the
Mitch and Katie Whirlwind Tour. Rolland
and I, in Paris, together with our sheltie puppy, Maggie, met up at a
nearby freeway exit with Mitch and Katie, in Blue Eyes, and Ester and her
son Ben, in OREO. We traveled
the freeway together about 45 miles to the north, where we met up with
other NB listers for a bite to eat (rolls, of course, for Katie), and then
attended a VW meet. I
searched out my photos this morning, as soon as I heard the news.
There was a great one of Katie sitting in the driver's seat of Blue
Eyes, thumbing through an envelope of NB list stickers, so she could give
each of us one. I've been
carrying that one around with me all day.
Another great one was of Blue Eyes and OREO as they were driving
the freeway ahead of us, with Katie sticking her head out the window so
she could look back and snap a photo of OREO and Paris, following Blue
Eyes. She
was so full of life, so full of energy.
I told Mitch earlier that I felt like she was 100% effervescent
bubbles. He was tired from
the trip, and needing a good long sleep.
But she was like the Energizer bunny, bubbling away about where
they had been, what they had done, what her life back home was like, and
all the while watching for Bugs (and there were a lot of them about,
heading to the VW meet), so she could pummel her father some more on the
arm. We
came away from that day in awe of such a wonderful father/daughter
relationship. They were so
bonded, so happy together. What
an adventure they were sharing, and you couldn't help but be a bit jealous
that you couldn't live it with them.
But then again, it did feel like we lived it with them, didn't it,
as we read every day their postings of the day's adventures, and looked at
Mitch's website for the day's photos. Last
month there was a tragedy here in Oregon, when a well known man from
Portland, Tiger Warren, died in a crash of his private plane, which he was
piloting. His three sons were
with him, and they all died too. Although
we didn't know him, he was well known in the state. From what little we knew of him, and what we learned
following his death, we felt that he lived life 110% full out every day.
He worked hard, and founded a restaurant chain, but he also played
hard, and most of all he loved his family.
He seemed like a shining star that burned out prematurely.
I felt that way today about Katie. Of
the young women her age that I have met, she was definitely a shining
star. She loved life, she
loved her family, and she loved everyone she came in contact with.
She definitely burned out too early.
I'd like to think, though, that she spread more love and happiness
in her 17 years than many of us will ever share in a lengthier lifetime.
Hopefully we'll all remember Katie and what she gave to us, and try
to honor her by loving each other. Live
with joy always. Judy and
Paris, in Oregon |
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[NewBug]
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: tristan@gate.net |
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Mitch....I
am so sorry. All I can say is
hang in there and time will ease the pain a bit and soon you'll remember all the happy times instead of what
happened. I have had the
misfortune of losing several loved ones very suddenly so I can definitely
understand your pain. I hope
you can find some solace in the fact that she did not suffer... Grace "Follow
your dreams, you too can achieve your goals.
I am living proof. BEEFCAKE!
BEEFCAKE!!"---Eric Cartman |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: lisa linn <spacegrrl@earthlink.net> |
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Mitch, i
am also writing this through tears.
though i never met her in person, i did know katie through the
wonderful travelogues you both posted to this list. her sweet nature and energy were apparent in all of those
writings. i have always been in awe of the close relationship between the
two of you. i can't imagine what a terrible loss this is for you, and my
heart goes out to you and your family.
i know that the list will be lessened without her. Love,
lisa & spacepod |
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[NewBug]
Loss Of An Angel From: "stefanopolus" <stefan@opolus.com> |
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I
was online when Mitch posted the sad news. When I read the title of his
E-mail, I first felt anger -- how could someone break into Mitch's Bug and
steal the angel from his bud vase on Christmas day?!?! If
it were only that simple. Mitch,
I've thought about you and Katie all day. Be strong. Through your E-mails,
her E-mails and your Web site, I feel a bond, as I'm sure we all do. Tina,
thanks very much for sharing that beautiful poem. It was touching and I'm
saving it. Please
take care, Stefan STEFANOPOLUS Editor-in-Chief,
Beetle Buzz News
Correspondent, New Beetle Club (NBC) Owner/Driver,
New Beetle 1.8T |
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Katie From: "beetle BUZZ" <stefan@opolus.com> |
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Hi
Mitch, Again,
so very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I
would like to do a little news article, in very good taste, on Katie for
Beetle Buzz, if it's okay with you. Both of you have been prominent in the
online New Beetle community, with your participation on the NewBug
listserver and your vibrant Web site chronicling your travels. I
wanted to run the idea by you. What do you think? I could use the photo of
Katie taking delivery of her New Beetle. Please
take care, Stefan STEFANOPOLUS Editor-in-Chief,
Beetle Buzz News
Correspondent, New Beetle Club (NBC) |
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Heavenly
Angel From: newbug@webtv.net (Herb Marshall) |
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Oh
Mitch, How my heart goes out to you and your family. I just want to join
all those on our list in their prayers. I have always felt close to you,
if only in my own feelings. I have closely followed and enjoyed the
wonderful adventure you have had with your beloved daughter. No words from
anyone can be much comfort now, I know. You have more memories than many
of us do to cherish forever. Try to have the strength and courage that
your Angel would want you to have and feel the peace that is with her.
Your
friend, Herb |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: BROWERJR1@aol.com |
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In
a message dated 12/27/1999 8:36:09 AM Pacific Standard Time, nb_mitch@yahoo.com
writes: <<
She just glowed with love and joy. >> This
is how I will always remember Katie. Katie
really got it....the reason why there is a bud vase in our cars, the
reason there is a reason why some of us have snowflakes when it is 70
degrees, the reason why some of us wave to other people in New Beetles.
Life should be filled with Love and Joy. Judy
and I were fortunate to have met with Katie and Mitch last June when they
were in Oregon. It didn't
take long to notice the special bond this father and daughter had.
Not to many kids would want to spend 18 days in a little car
traveling the US with their father these days, but Katie was different.
When we met Mitch we could tell he was a bit tired from the trip as
they were approaching the halfway point of the journey.
His co-pilot, Katie was full of life.
"Punch Buggy", "Thud" was coming from Katie
with each
Old Beetle she say and Mitch would have this look of "not again"
on his face. We had picked a
restaurant in Woodburn, Oregon to have lunch with some from the list on
our way to a VW meet. This
was also the exit that many other VW's would be taking to go to the meet. Katie had the best seat for viewing cars as they came off
the freeway, Mitch could only winch in pain....."Punch Buggy,
Daddy"....... Katie's
presence has blessed many from this list in many ways whether it be from
meeting on a trip, or sharing thoughts in emails. I for one will always cherish the smile she had. I
know Katie will be watching over her Daddy as well as others she came to
love. Now there is an Angel
up there watching over New Beetle list people and her name is Katie. God
Bless, Rolland
& Paris |
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[NewBug]
Angel... From: "John 'Cetacean' Steele"
<cetacean@iname.com> |
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...I
met Katie and Mitch briefly at Driversfest. Now I really wish I hadn't
gotten lost in CT on the way there... I
also had the opportunity to meet them for dinner a few days later.
Unfortunately, that wound up as little more than a game of phone tag.
Since Mitch was driving, I got to talk to Katie. I
think I ended our last conversation with "See you in Roswell,
then?" I'm pretty sure her reply was affirmative. I'll
be looking for you, Katie. -Cetacean |
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[NewBug]
Katie From:
"Nancy S. Breland" <nbreland@tcnj.edu> |
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I
was stunned, then deeply saddened, when I read of Katie's death.
I never had the pleasure (and all who met her say that it was such
a pleasure) of meeting Mitch and Katie. Like many other list members I
enjoyed getting to know them through their descriptions and pictures of
their trips together. When I studied the snapshots of Mitch and Katie, I
thought that the camera had captured two people who clearly loved each
other very much. And now one
of them is gone. Mitch,
I hope that you can take comfort from the thoughts and prayers of the many
"faceless" members of this list as well as the people you have
met in person. You and Katie have done so much to create this
"family" and we share your grief. Nancy
Breland and Rosebug |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day From:
"Chuck Wildzunas"<chuckw@wrldnet.net> |
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Mitch... I
can't add much to the genuine outpouring of emotion from the other members
of the list... I have read each post (many with tears in my eyes) and am
sad at your loss. I have
tried to imagine, but I can't. My
prayers are with you... Chuck
and Nancy Wildzunas |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Judy Kuhnle" <jkuhnle@globaldialog.com> |
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I
just visited the site that Dan did for Katie and read some of the
messages. I think we should
all put our personal messages to Mitch in the questbook so they will all
be in one place for him to read in the future. (I just copied and pasted
the one that I had submitted to the list earlier.)
A wonderful memorial to Katie, the one he loved. Judy
and Ladybug 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 guestbook that I've set up, which is linked to
on that page. Thanks very much. Dan
dan@newbug.org |
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My
heart goes out to you and your wife From:
Tammy Gibbons <tammy_gibbons@yahoo.com> |
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Dear
Mitch, Words
are so inadequate at a time like this. I haven't been following the list
very closely lately, but I signed on this morning and began to cry upon
reading your note. Please
know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time, as are the
thoughts and prayers of your hundreds of friends you've made through the
list. It is obvious to everyone that you had a very special relationship
with Katie, and she knew at all times how much she was loved, she was
indeed a lucky girl. I've
never been a parent, but I did lose my sister when she was 15, and I have
some idea of what my parents went through. If I were able to be there in
Georgia, I'd give you a hug, but since I can't be, carry our friendship in
your heart to help you get through. I
know that you've already heard this a lot, but if there is anything at all
I can do, please don't hesitate to ask. Thinking
of you, Tammy
Gibbons Hillsboro,
OR |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: Buginon898@aol.com |
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Mitch, Although
I was never fortunate enough to actually meet Katie, I felt as if I knew
her through the list & also by the affectionate way you always spoke
about her...my heart truly goes out to you...there is probably not
anything that anyone can do to ease this loss, but just keep in mind that
we all feel for you & our thoughts (& tears) are with you...God
bless Mary |
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[NewBug]
A Tribute to Katie From: "Steve Meister" <the.meisters@erols.com> |
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Hi
folks, ElecMoHawk
came up with a great idea for a tribute for Katie. Get some silver ribbon
(the color of Katie's NB) and tie it to your NB's antenna. Let's also do
this at R2K, for Katie. --
Steve & Christiane DARTH
VW |
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Re:
[NewBug] A Tribute to Katie From:
"Howie Lipton" <isetahow@idirect.com> |
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Great
idea! I was going to suggest
that the Roswell meet be dedicated in her memory (and had already
suggested it to David); a person that so much wanted to attend Roswell.
Without turning morbid, or letting the hurt go on, if it's okay
with Mitch and David, we could do this. Howie |
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Christmas
Day Angel From: Kim Fryer <redbug2@mindspring.com> |
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Mitch, I
spoke with you in e-mail earlier this year, I was planning on being at the
show in Villa Park with the other NB owners but due to the rain and
flooding never made it to meet you and Katie. I thought certainly there
would be another chance. Well, I guess you should never count on chances. I
am very upset to hear about your Christmas Day, it is without a doubt The
saddest thing I have read all year. But it does make me feel much better
to know that you had such a wonderful time with Katie traveling around in
your New Beetle and taking photos everywhere you went this year. It is
wonderful to see and father and daughter who liked to spend so much time
together. I'm glad you have the photos from this year's trip to remind you
of her, it seems as though you will have nothing but the happiest
memories. I
don't believe you have truly lost your angel, I think she will always be
there with her new wings, watching over her dad. Kim |
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Farewell...
From: "ElecMoHwk" <elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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Katie, Even
though I know you will not read this, I still want to just let you know
how wonderful of a person you were in life, and beyond I'm sure. Ever
since the day that we met, I've had a new interest in life, and I don’t
ever want to go back to anything less than what you gave me. I
hardly knew you, but I feel like I've lost my best friend.
Your father is not the only one who cries for you now.
You will be missed by so many people. Thank
you for the smiles. Thank you
for the wonderful smiles. Farewell
'lil angel. @}--`--,--------------------------- ::
ElecMoHwk (elecmohwk@dashin.org) ::
http://bug.dashin.org ('99 GL DkBl + Silver Ribbon) |
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[NewBug]
Loss of an Angel From: Cbjszoo@aol.com |
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Mitch...
my thoughts and prayers are with you and Katie. As a father with two
teenage children I could not imagine the loss you must feel. Chuck
and Halfmoon. White
98 TDI |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Rusty <rustle@bellsouth.net> |
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Mitch, I'm
so sorry. I wish I could turn back the clock for you and somehow and
prevent this tragedy. I know there is nothing I can do or say to ease your
pain. Katie was a wonderful girl and I was lucky to have known her. You
are both in my thoughts... -Rusty |
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RE:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Ivy.Foley@BassHotels.com |
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Mitch, I
wanted to call you but don't really know where to reach you. I am just
crushed by this news and wish there was something I could do to help you
deal with it. If you feel like talking please call. I'll be at the
memorial service on Monday. I'm so sorry. Ivy |
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RE:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: roninam@worldnet.att.net |
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mitch, i'm
sorry to hear about your loss. i just joined the list in august and have
been pretty much a lurker, but your story about katie saddened me. i also
fell asleep at the wheel once, but i was lucky in that i woke up, then
lost control and spun head-on into the highway median. Somehow, both my
friend and i survived. From yours and everyone else's description, katie
sounds like she was a very special girl who was taken away from you too
soon. You have my condolences. Eric |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Larry Shaber" <larrynbm@bellatlantic.net> |
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Kim
and I met Mitch and Katie at Driverfest this past August. What I remember
the most about Driverfest is when Katie had locked the keys to her NB
inside the car. It took quite some time until the security people could
finally open the door on their NB. If one of my sons had done this, I
would have gone ballistic. Not Mitch. He was sitting at our table with
Katie, very calmly waiting for the security people to arrive. Never once
uttering a negative word her way. His calm restraint just proved how much
he truly loved his daughter. Mitch,
Kim and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Larry
& Kim |
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RE:
[NewBug] A Tribute to Katie From: Wayne Repich <wrepich@vanacc.com> |
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Steve
& ElecMoHawk, I
think that's a great idea, as a tribute to Katie, and as a remembrance of
all that is right with this world. I'll
have mine on before the sun goes down. WSR
& Elmo Wayne
Repich |
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Re:
Good Morning!! From: Inez E Hendrix <mscricket@juno.com> |
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Hello
there honeys, we will be praying for you all and the Lord Bless you all
through this service. If you
take pictures please send me some. It
hurts me from the deepest of my heart that I can’t be by your sides all
the way. May you all take it easy as you possibly can. Let us hear from
you all With
lots of love Shorty
and Cricket |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Gladys Gonzalez" <ggonzalez@bcbsal.org> |
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Mitch...
I found out about the accident yesterday PM when Phillip called me at home
(I have/had the "flu".) I
am grieving for you ...although, I never met Katie, I have met her in my
heart, as I have a daughter that I love the way you love Katie.
Please know that you have support in the form of many prayers in
your behalf. I pray for God's
blessing of comfort and strength for you during this most difficult time.
There are promises in His Word that will help sustain you. For example, Joel 2:25, "I will restore to you the
years that the locust (evil one) has eaten...", and, in Job 42:10-17,
"the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before (Satan had taken
his family by causing various calamities..." , and, Psalms 23. In
Christ's love, Gladys |
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Re:[NewBug]I
lost my Angel on Christmas day
"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 the
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]
RE: Loss of an Angel From: BeccaNando@aol.com |
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Mitch: I
want to pour out my deepest sympathy for you and the family.
Reading about Katie was a shock to me considering the fact that the
last time we saw each other was back in August when you guys came to New
York, and we all drove out to Jones Beach together. I
am so sorry for your loss, Mitch. I
will speak to you soon. Love, Becca |
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[NewBug]
A Tribute to Katie From: "Tyler Thompson"
<tthompso@edwin.mounet.com> |
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We
could get David to make some stickers for our windows, since Katie loved
stickers, saying in memory of Katie in a NB logo. I thought of it last
night, what do you think? Tyler
& Bugger |
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RE:
[NewBug] A Tribute to Katie From:
TPearson@madisondm.com |
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That
is an excellent idea! I’d tie a ribbon on Malcolm even thou we won't be
there. tab
& malcolm >
Great idea! I was going to
suggest that the Roswell meet be dedicated in her memory (and had already
suggested it to David); a person that so much wanted to attend Roswell.
Without turning morbid, or letting the hurt go on, if it's okay
with Mitch and David, we could do this. |
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For
Mitch From: "A. Martin"
<abarrett@Houston.GeoQuest.SLB.COM> |
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Mitch, Our
thoughts and prayers are with you both now and always. "God,
grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.... Courage to
change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference. Living
one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardship as
the pathway to peace. Taking,
as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it. Trusting
that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may
be reasonably happy in this life, and supremely happy with Him forever in
the next." written
by Dr. Reinhold Niebuhr, 1926 Eternal
Father, it isn't often but once in a while I experience a highly refined
sense of serenity. At such times I feel very close to You, happy with my
life, and ready to do anything asked of me. I realize that these are
moments of sensible consolation and such consolation is never
permanent---still it is very nice to experience.
Grant me the grace to remain just as attached to You when I am
deprived of consolation. Let
me learn to concentrate on what is important in my relationship with You,
so that I may bear witness to You in every circumstance of my life. Amen. |
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[NewBug]
Roswell Dedication From: "Larry Shaber"
<larrynbm@bellatlantic.net> |
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How
about "R2Katie" as the theme for a decal/logo/etc. in memory of
Katie? Larry |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Jamison Turner"
<stressing@hotmail.com> |
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Mitch- I
am so sorry to hear of your loss. Words cannot explain the sorrow I feel
for you. Although I never had the chance to meet you or Katie, I feel
through this list that we are somehow family. I cannot imagine a loss as
great as yours. May God give you the strength and courage to make it
through these difficult times. You will be in my prayers. My heart goes
out to you. |
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Condolences From: phope@btinternet.com |
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Mitch, I
didn't know either Katie or yourself but having been on the list for 18
months or so and having visited the website, I feel I must offer my
heartfelt sympathy at your loss. I'm
sure all Scottish list members will join me in saying this. I
lost my cousin this year after a long and painful struggle against kidney
& liver disease. Take
care, Peter |
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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. 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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Loss
of your Angel From: Arthur van Mourik
<AvanMourik@Essilor.NL> |
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Mitch, I've
never been so shocked as yesterday when I read the mail on the NewBug
list, I expected something funny as you lost some Christmas decoration
from Blue Eyes during a ride when I saw the subject of your mail but after
reading some lines I almost couldn't breath, like I was hit by a
sledgehammer on my forehead. First
I couldn't believe it because where could someone find the strength to
write this after such an event but making jokes about such things was
totally unthinkable to me. I
almost couldn't sleep the last night and I had the accident you described
about ten times in my nightmares last night, I cannot understand what a
nightmare it must have been for you to experience this for real. I
never met Katie but I was a daily visitor of your trips at your site and
could see the beautiful bond between you and your daughter, a magnificent
father/daughter bond with a lot of love. I
was always impressed by the amount of happiness and innocence Katie spread
around even at the 2D pictures I looked at every day during your trips. I'm
not religious and I don't know who's deciding which person goes to heaven
but I can guarantee you that it wasn't a democratic decision because I
cannot imagine someone voting for Katie to go to heaven, we need such
stars on earth to learn about what's life. Time
will ease the pain of the lost of your Angel but I'm sure you cannot
imagine that at this moment. Mitch, I'm so sorry for your loss and my
thoughts are with you and your Family. Katie,
when you look down from heaven and focus on the tiny country called the
Netherlands and sees a black Beetle with a silver ribbon on the antenna
you're looking at a person who cannot understand why you're so far away. Arthur
van Mourik. |
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[NewBug]
A gift for Mitch From: UB45@aol.com |
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Mitch
& Katie have constantly been on my mind the last 24 hrs. & I know
that everyone wants to do something to help but we all feel pretty
helpless. My own daughter, Amanda, is only two days younger than Katie
& I can only imagine how Mitch feels. I
have an idea that I hope you will all help with. I'd like to give Mitch a
scrapbook filled with pictures of Katie & list members and her e-mails
to the list. I have the e-mails she wrote to me but I didn't save the ones
to the list. Anyone have copies of the e-mail she sent announcing her car
name, talking about her adventures, etc? How about messages she wrote to
you that you think would be appropriate to include?
Just e-mail them to me & I'll print them on acid free paper to
include in the scrapbook. If
you were one of the fortunate ones who met her & have pictures, would
you have copies to share? Reply to me off list & I'll send you my
address. Thanks
for any help you can give. Debbie
& DejaVW |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: Ester Brock <brocks@efn.org> |
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Mitch, There
are no words to say how we feel. Some
things just don't seem fair. Please do your best to take care of yourself
now and know that that is what Katie would have wanted you to do. A
silver ribbon will soon be on Tin Man.
I think it is great that this list is so supportive and caring
during this very sad time! I
could go on and on but I would just be repeating what every one else has
so graciously stated. Ester |
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Lost
Angel From: FIREBUGMAN@aol.com |
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A
quote from the "BUG TALES" book, edited by Paul Klebahn, about
the human side of the VW experience; "Slowly, steadily, they became
more than just a car to many people, they became a companion.
Often, they even became a family member, the kind you can swear at
but still love." Myself,
like so many of you, are still in shock after reading about Mitch and
Katie's tragic accident. I
see this sort of thing at work on a regular basis, but when something like
this happens to someone you know, it is a totally different story. We
had the pleasure (along with a "huge" contingent of the Chicago
area list Subscribers) to meet Mitch and Katie last summer at a local VW
show. They were on the final
leg of their whirlwind "North American" tour and, as much as I'm
sure they were looking forward to getting home, they took the time to come
to the show and visit with the digest members.
I'm sure that everyone that was there that day will agree with me:
Their warm smiles and bubbling personalities brought a dose of sunshine to
an otherwise gloomy and rainy day. Mitch,
thank you for giving us the opportunity to get to know you and Katie.
She will always be in our memories. Going
back to my first paragraph -- we must not forget that Mitch has also lost
another member of his family. He
and "Blue Eyes" have been list Members Almost from the start.
He (and Katie) spent many hours in that car and he Regularly kept
us posted about his New Beetle's trials, tribulations and Current status.
It was exciting to read the daily postings about their road Trips
and to realize how much of an impact "Blue Eyes" had on Mitch's
life. If it weren’t for that little blue New Beetle TDI, none of us
would have had the wonderful opportunity to have Mitch and Katie become
part of our lives, too. Our
thoughts and prayers are with you, Mitch & Katie & "Blue
Eyes" as we pass along our deepest sympathies. But, again, I must thank you for giving us the chance to
meet the members of your family and to let them be part of our memories as
well. Also, please remember
that we are here for you if you need anything. Kirk
& Pam |
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[NewBug]
R2Katie.com mirrored From: "ElecMoHwk"
<elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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if
for no other reason than to just make sure their travels together are kept
around for people to read and enjoy her thoughts of the world. http://bug.dashin.org/katie/ ::
ElecMoHwk (elecmohwk@dashin.org) |
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[NewBug]
Katie/Y2k From: Elangvw@aol.com |
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Steve, Your
idea about silver ribbons on our antennas as a tribute to Katie is a great
one. Ellen
Lang Autobarn
VW, Mt Prospect, IL |
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[NewBug]
A gift for Mitch From: UB45@aol.com |
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<<
I have an idea that I hope you will all help with. I'd like to give Mitch
a scrapbook filled with pictures of Katie & list members and her
e-mails to the list. >> I
mean for this scrapbook to be a gift from all of us on the list, as a
token of our friendship to Mitch & to show our love for Katie. If
anyone has ideas of other things to include, please let me know. Thanks, Debbie |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Kevin Buchanan" <kevbuch@ticnet.com> |
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Mitch, I
am terribly sorry for your loss. That
it had to happen around the Holidays only worsens it. While I am not a parent, I am familiar with the pain of
losing people you love on Christmas.
It was only one year ago that four of my best friends were killed
by a drunk driver, days before Christmas.
But, of course, I cannot pretend to know what it's like to lose a
child, being 17 myself. The
thoughts, prayers, and love of all of us on the mailing list are with you
this holiday season, Mitch. To
say that I'm in shock would be an understatement. I've never had the pleasure of meeting either of you, yet,
but I've always enjoyed your postings to the list. Even though I had never met you or Katie, I cried when I
first learned of your loss. From
your web site, I could tell that Katie was as big, if not bigger, a Bug
lover as the rest of us, and I would just like to say that she will be
missed by all of us. I
placed a small photo and message on The Spirit of Volkswagen -- it's not
much, but I wanted to do something for her.
I just wish I could do more. Take
Care, Mitch. Yours
very sincerely and respectfully,
Kevin Ross Buchanan |
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Loss From: "Mark Kelly"
<mkelly72@nextek.net> |
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I
so sorry about your loss but I know and feel in my heart that God is now
and always will be with you. I will pray that he will send comfort to you
and your love ones in this time of your greatest need. Remember what Jesus
said in Luke 23:43 Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in
paradise. May god bless and keep you all, you are in my
prayers......Mark...... |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Howie Lipton"
<isetahow@idirect.com> |
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I'm
still in shock and disbelief over the news of our tragic loss of Katie. It
helps to read the excellent writings of other listers, and I hope that
Mitch also receives comfort from it.
You've all expressed yourselves amazingly, and it's great to be
part of this "family". We
met Katie and Mitch on their last whirlwind road trip while they were up
in Niagara Falls and stayed overnight at my place in order to get Blue
Eyes' window fixed. We met
again at Driversfest. I don't
think I've ever met someone with such an energetic and bubbly personality.
She had a unique way of reporting on the day's trip, focusing on
something that most of us would overlook.
(Even my 6-year old son remembers her from Niagara Falls when we
told him of her death.) I was also impressed that a teenager in the 90's would want
to hang around her dad so much. There
was so much love. Not
to get into religion, but I always wonder why, if there is a god, he'd
want to take someone away like this.
Perhaps, it is said, he has reasons, or other uses for the person.
I believe that if this is so, then heaven just became a place
that's more exciting and fun! Our
thoughts and our prayers are with Mitch and his family.
We hope the pain will ease quickly. Sincerely,
Howie P.S.
In the Jewish faith, we often plant a tree in Israel in memory of a
departed person, to remember that with death there can be life.
We will be planting one in memory of Katie.
To do this in your area, you can get in touch with your local
synagogue, Jewish Community Centre, or Jewish National Fund (JNF), or
contact me for info. |
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[NewBug]
Katie's tribute From: "ElecMoHwk"
<elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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Folks. I'm
happy that there are so many of you who want to make some type of tribute
to Katie, and I'm sure Mitch is going to really know how much she meant to
all of us, and how much love and support we have for him and the rest of
her family. Please
tho... let's not go overboard on this.
Mitch has had one of the greatest losses anyone can possibly
imagine. The last thing I
would want to see is the pain in his eyes each time he sees a million
reminders of who he no longer has to hold in his arms. Katie
was a big part of this community, and a big part of anyone's life that she
touched, and became a part of. No
matter what happens, she'll never be forgotten, and never be dismissed as
a simple tragic accident. We've
all lost a friend. Let's
just be respectful of the pain that those who lost a daughter,
grand-daughter, and much much more. Give
them room to heal, without having a million reminders in their way. I
just tried to find one picture of her on her journal pages, and I cant
even get the will power to go to the pages anymore. The ribbon I tied to Bug last night is just so that I can
know she was here, she was real, and she will always be a part of my life
even now. Not to remind
myself and others of the wonderful girl who died, but the wonderful lil'
angel that sits in my heart now, and looks over all of the people she
loved. ::
ElecMoHwk (elecmohwk@dashin.org) ::
http://bug.dashin.org ('99 GL DkBl + Silver Ribbon) |
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Re:
[NewBug] A Tribute to Katie From: BROWERJR1@aol.com |
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In
a message dated 12/28/99 7:52:51 AM Pacific Standard Time,
tthompso@edwin.mounet.com writes: <<
We could get David to make some stickers for our windows, since Katie
loved stickers, saying in memory of Katie in a NB logo. I thought of it
last night, what do you think? >> Tyler,
this is a great idea. Something
special for those of us who were fortunate to know Katie and something
special for those who would have liked to. Rolland,
Paris, Dar & Ghia |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Carrie Hiebert"
<carrie.hiebert@home.com> |
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Dear
Mitch: I'm
new to the list, so I was never lucky enough to meet either you or
Katie...she sounds like such a wonderful person. You seemed to have a bond
that most parents only dream about having. I'm a parent also, and I can't
even begin to imagine the horror you're going through. It's the kind of
thing you have nightmares about...no parent should ever have to mourn a
child's loss. My thoughts, tears, and prayers are with you and your
family...I'm so sorry about Katie. Good luck in the coming months,
sunlight will come back. Take care of yourselves. Carrie
and Booger |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "Robert Easley"
<reasley@goldrush.com> |
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Mitch I
am truly saddened at your loss. Words fail to carry the feelings. Bob
& Terry |
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[NewBug]
Katie sticker From: "David W. Allen"
<davida@airmail.net> |
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I
was working on a special sticker for Katie, but got busy during the
holidays and didn't finish it. It's the Herbie sticker shown on the
sticker page, but with the word "Angel" instead of
"Herbie". I'll make these up in silver for anyone who wants one.
Just e-mail me your address and tell me if you want it regular or in
reverse for inside the window. (Please, silver only so that I can make
them in large numbers quickly) |
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[NewBug]
An Angel From: Rusty Pato <rusty@ostari.com> |
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Mitch: I
want to express the sadness that I feel for the loss of Katie and that
though I never had the privilege of meeting either of you, that I feel
like I've lost a friend. Thank-you
for allowing all of us in this NB community to be a part of your road-trip
adventures and especially for bringing Katie into our lives. God be with
you and your family. Rusty
and "Coaster" |
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request
to attend services From: "ElecMoHwk"
<elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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Mitch, I
would like to, if you and the rest of your family are allowing this,
attend the services for Katie if possible.
I'm checking flight info right now but not making any commitments.
If it is inappropriate, please let me know.
If not, please let me know as well,
also with a recommendation on getting from Atlanta’s airport to Augusta
within a few hours. Thank
you, and god bless. |
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Love
and Prayers From: Jesse Garnier
<garnier@examiner.com> |
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Mitch,
I can only hope you can feel the support and warmth of my tears and
prayers. God bless you and your family -- Jesse
Garnier, San Francisco '99
green/cream GLX 5-spd - CA Plate [HTML BUG] |
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Memories
Keep Those We Love Close to Us Forever
From: richpalm@nac.net (Rich Newbug list) |
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You
have just received an electronic card from Rich Newbug list You can pick
up your personal message by using the following Web location. http://www1.bluemountain.com/cards/box5386u/aew4gsynhkugif.htm (Your
card will be available for the next 90 days) |
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[NewBug]
Katie sticker From:
"David W. Allen" <davida@airmail.net> |
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*****
Repost ****** I
was working on a special sticker for Katie, but got busy during the
holidays and didn't finish it. It's the Herbie sticker shown on the
sticker page, but with the word "Angel" instead of
"Herbie". I'll make these up in silver for anyone who wants one.
Just e-mail me your address and tell me if you want it regular or in
reverse for inside the window. (Please, silver only so that I can make
them in large numbers quickly) ********* I
am making these free of charge to honor the memory of Katie. I think she
would think this is cool - so please don't send money, just an address. If
you feel that you must send money, please honor Mitch's request of a
donation to her school: >
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 |
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Katie From:
"James Phaon Caldwell" <jpcaldwell@earthlink.net> |
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Mitch---I'm
heartsick about the loss of your daughter, Katie. There's not much anyone can say or do to ease the pain of
the loss of a child---but hold onto your memories of her---and your
priceless times spent together, father and daughter. God
bless you and your family. With
sincere best wishes, Jim
Caldwell Coralville,
Iowa |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: "R&R Johnson"
<r_rjohns@bellsouth.net> |
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Mitch, Just
returned form a long weekend and heard about your terrible loss. Just
would like to express my sorrow and will keep Katie, you and in our
prayers. R
Johnson Rj
and SNOBALL |
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Re:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: Laslavicjk@aol.com |
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Dear
Mitch, It
is so hard to express the sorrow that we feel for you and Shirley. My
words can't even broach the tip of our despair. I could not talk to you
about it after, so please forgive me for not calling. I have great
difficulty dealing with such happenings. It's not from a lack of faith,
but probably the loss of what could have been. I can't even fathom this
happening, or how you must feel. Please be strong, and maintain your
faith. All
I can figure is that Katie had fulfilled her mission here on earth. She
obviously made a lasting difference somewhere, with someone. We're all
here to accomplish something that betters mankind, and some achieve that
objective sooner then others, and then move on to a better place. There is
no doubt in my mind that her loving, considerate, outgoing personality
touched many, and left lasting impressions that will be carried on through
other lives, throughout the ages. She made a difference!! She is truly an
Angel!! Our
memories of her have always been special to us. The years and Distance
have never diminished our fondness for her, and the bond we felt existed
since her birth, and colicky days in Albany. Your most recent visit in
August confirmed in our minds that the two of you have raised a very
special child, one who could relate to anyone. Our girls loved being with
her. I will always know her to be a vibrant, personable, loving,
considerate child, always fun to be around. What more can a parent want in
a child. You guys
did good! We're
there for you guys. Our prayers, and those of our family and Friends are
with you in your time of grief. If there is anything that we can ever do,
please don't hesitate to call. We truly wish that we could have come down,
but hopefully in the near future. Not
to sound corny, but try to remember our Marine Corps motto of "Semper
Fidelis". Always faithful. You can interpret it in any number of
ways, but at a time like this, I read it as maintaining your faith in God
and family. I know the times are difficult for the both of you. We hope
things work out in the long run. Do what is right. We
love you guys. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always. Kevin. |
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[NewBug]
"lost an Angel on Christmas Day"
From: Richard Swaim <swaimrw@cinci.infi.net> |
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Mitch, Like
some have written here, I have to also say that, unfortunately, I never
knew you or Katie, except the NB list.
I am so very sorry about your loss of Katie.
I have gone to your web site and looked at all the tour pics and I
must say....what a lovely person she was.
When I scanned down the digest today and began to read your post, I
began to say to myself...."Oh no....." and then the rest of the
news came. My heart truly goes out to you, as do my prayers.
The outpouring of your digest friends and those who met the two of
you in various places around the country is incredible. You and Katie
were, and are, Loved. All
my sympathies, Richard
and "Max" |
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RE:
I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Franck Saltre" <salt0022@tc.umn.edu> |
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Although
we have never met face to face, only through the chat room on NB.org (BK),
know that all of us at the NB Club of MN are with you, and the hard times
ahead. I remember when you were planning on going around the US. Making a
little detour around Minneapolis to go see the Mall of America. Waiting
there was rosemary stroble(yellow bug), a good friend of mine, i now
regret not having been able to receive you and finally meet you and
Katie....from what i heard an amazing person. Coming
up is our annual new beetle meet, and i wanted to let you know that we
will all wear silver ribbons in memory of a fellow friend and bug owner.
Although hard times maybe to come, know that Katie will never be really
gone, she lives through you, friends and fellow bug owners...
A friend...
Frank. |
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Re:
request to attend services From: "ElecMoHwk"
<elecmohwk@dashin.org> |
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I'm
getting on a greyhound in a few hours.
I'll be there at about 10am tomorrow.
I've secured a room at the EconoLodge at 444 broad street and will
head there first then onto the services. My bus will go directly from DC
to Augusta. I'll
be staying there overnight tomorrow, so if there is anything you need let
me know and i'm there for you. Everyone
is. I don’t know if you've
noticed the flood of list mails, but you are not the only one who feels
this loss Mitch, not by far. We're
all here for you and your family, don’t hesitate to take anyone up on
that support. >
You are more than welcome, it is about an 8 hour drive from DC (non-stop) >
and it is about 2 hours drive from Atlanta. > >
Mitch |
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[NewBug]
Katie From: VWBEETLVR@aol.com |
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This
saddens my heart. I believe I
met Katie for a short moment on the DriversFest '99 caravan.
When we stopped I just sat around and said hi to everyone.
I believe Katie was one of them.
This truly is sad and I offer my deepest condolences to Mitch and
his family. |
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Katie From:
fkern@us.ibm.com |
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Mitch, I
am stunned and deeply saddened to read about Katie. Although I never met you or Katie, her posts during your
travels were a constant source of enjoyment and showed her to be as a
bright and articulate young lady.
We all shared in her joy and enthusiasm when she became the proud
owner of Angel. My
thoughts are with you. Fred
Kern |
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Re:
[NewBug] I lost my Angel on Christmas day
From: "Paul McNab" <pmcnab@ibm.net> |
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Mitch
my thoughts and prayers are with you. I just checked my mail less than an
hour ago and my heart fell when I read your post, and its still just
sinking in. Although I only got to spend a few hours with you on your
detour to PEI, I thoroughly enjoyed the time we had and have vivid
memories of the afternoon with the two of you. It was obvious that the two
of you were more than the average daughter and her dad, but rather more
like best friends. Katie had by far the most energy of the three of us
that day and among the things I remember of that day were: her hanging out
the car window taking pictures while driving down the highway, shopping at
the giftshop after our meal and convincing you to buy her some souvenirs,
and her amazement over the funny pop bottles we have here on the Island.
It saddens me greatly to think of someone so happy and full of life,
should have that life cut short. Paul
McNab |
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(no
subject) From: BeccaNando@aol.com |
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Mitch: I
am deeply sorry about Katie. She
was a wonderful person and Rob and I really enjoyed her company, as well
as yours when you were both up here in New York. If
you need anything--absolutely anything--you can email me or call me.
Rob and I are both here for you and your family and our prayers are
with you and your family and Katie right now and always. Love, Becca
and Rob |
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Hopes
and Prayers From: RayCara@aol.com |
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Hello
there... I
don't know if you remember me, but we met at the Jones Beach VW thing and
you gave me a lil Herbie in the parking lot... I was with Peter Schmidt
and the gang. I heard that you recently had a horrible tragedy happen to
you and I wanted to convey my most sincere hopes of peace for you and your
family. Bad things happen to good people. I'm sorry to hear such bad news.
God bless. -Ray
and April Caramanna, Glen Rock, NJ. Very
proud owner of "Mango"
http://www.mangoland.com/bugs/bugs.html my
1998 Yellow Volkswagen New Beetle _________________________________________________
(o\_vw_/o) --MEEP! MetroNuKaferKlub
member, "mango_1544"
clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/greaternewyorknewbugclub |
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Sympathy
from Rosemary &Pat (Chubbies last summer)
From: "Roesmary Strobel" <yellowbugg@hotmail.com> |
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Bob
& Frank just forwarded the news about your accident. I am sorry for
you. Your Katie was really
happy on that trip. She
really made me want to just drop everything & drive to Vegas just to
see if the excitement she had wasn't contagious. I
can still see you both in that 50s joint showing off the camera & her
talking about Vegas, her hat, a silver ring, wanting a hatbox at Michael's
and how groovy it would be to have an SUV to go away to school in. It's
really sad. I
hope you can live through the grief. Even 10 years later, I still think of
my cousin John's rollover accident & wonder why it had to happen.
I blamed GM, the mountain Pass, Montana's D.O.T. and Missoula for
allowing a highway to be that dangerous and not well marked. The
trip you took this summer was a great thing.
I'm glad you were able to. John
found us after 25 years' time and we took a drive from here to Winnipeg to
see a zoo exhibit. Those
hours in the car & at the zoo and in a Winnipeg bar are all we got. Your
angel & ours are probably drag racing. --Love Rosemary
Strobel & Pat Tisdell |
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Your
Angel From: Regina Stelling
<regina@ga.prestige.net> |
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Mitch, I
am deeply saddened by the news of your accident and the loss of Katie. I
am still in shock as I'm sure you are too. Please know that all of your
friends are thinking about you and praying for you and Shirley. I really
would like to talk to you in person, but for now, email is probably best. I
can't even begin to imagine the loss you must be feeling now. I am truly
praying that God will give you the strength you need to survive. Please
call me anytime if you ever want to talk. I am not going to be able to
make it to Augusta tomorrow, but I am definitely coming to the memorial
service next Monday. Please
take care of yourself. Shirley and your family and Katie are still
depending on you to be strong. Regina |