Kathryn Kessey Benton

This time of year leads one to remember and reflect upon many things. When I count my blessings, knowing Kathy and Jerome are certainly among those, for they have profoundly changed this world for myself and many others.

Kathy's exceptional knowledge and wisdom is even more impressive with her willingness to share, which can be rare among those that are so gifted.

Seeing Kathy and Jerome together you could feel how they were meant for each other, simply put...magical.

Well anyone who knew Kathy knows she never missed the magic of the moment because she was focused on what was to come.. While I didnt know her as well as most... I feel lucky to have known her at all. Happy Birthday

Vancouver Farmers Market

Kathy and I would occasionally wake up early enough on Saturday mornings to meander around the Vancouver Farmers Market looking for inspiration. One brisk winter morning we saw a sign for fresh Dungeness crab, and decided to make plans for crab dinner. I had never cooked a crab before, but one thing I learned about Kathy, early in our relationship, was that she loved creating and experimenting with tasty dishes. I loved tasting her creations, so I was

Vancouver Farmers Market

Kathy and I would occasionally wake up early enough on Saturday mornings to meander around the Vancouver Farmers Market looking for inspiration. One brisk winter morning we saw a sign for fresh Dungeness crab, and decided to make plans for crab dinner. I had never cooked a crab before, but one thing I learned about Kathy, early in our relationship, was that she loved creating and experimenting with tasty dishes. I loved tasting her creations, so I was eager to get dinner started.

We approached the crabber, and I remember thinking how comfortable he looked in sneakers, khakis, and a denim shirt with a cable knit sweater. With deep blue eyes that defied the age shown by his wispy white hair, he started telling us about the amazing harvest this season, and this morning. Kathy spoke with him in her easy style, and we were soon laughing about making Krabby patties if we could get Kathy to coax the recipe out of Mr. Krabs. The crabber put our Dungeness crab in a portable Styrofoam cooler on ice, and leaned in to say, "You are in for an adventure with that one."

At that moment, I realized it wasn't just me. Everyone she met was immediately taken by her light. They realized how beautiful, gifted, and graceful Kathy was, which showed in the way they perked up when she laughed, or their eyes lit up when she spoke.

We finished our tasty crab dinner, and sat on the porch when the night lit up with stars as we dreamed and plotted our future. I am thankful for the opportunity to walk, and sometimes run, by her side during our adventures.

As I reflect on the past year without new memories of you, I remember the words you wrote on our last wedding anniversary. You thought we had been cheated out of a life of sharing and connecting with each other, and finally bonding with someone who "gets" you. In the moment, I had that same thought. However, I am humbled now at the realization that we truly lived our lives together, no matter how brief. Every minute of every day

As I reflect on the past year without new memories of you, I remember the words you wrote on our last wedding anniversary. You thought we had been cheated out of a life of sharing and connecting with each other, and finally bonding with someone who "gets" you. In the moment, I had that same thought. However, I am humbled now at the realization that we truly lived our lives together, no matter how brief. Every minute of every day we lived to the fullest and shared a lifetime of meaningful , spiritual connection. I miss you, honey, and I am honored and thankful for the brightness you brought into my life.

Today, your family and friends honor your memory. We take comfort in knowing each other, and sharing our connection through you. We remember your smile, your laugh, and your stories. I know that you would not want to see us focus on your loss. I can hear your voice now, saying, "Don't get all creepy with grief, it icks me out," as you make the ick face. But you also realize that saying goodbye is not simple. You asked me to light a candle for you on your birthday, and that is how I will remember you.

I only worked with her recently on a project for our company in NYC, in that short three week period I can account for the expertise and creativity of her work. She was a true professional.

The kindness of her voice and her personality made the calls very relaxing, as if speaking to a close friend and a pleasure to work with. I was asking to work with her again and just found out.

my sincerest condolences

Jerome,
We are very sorry to hear about the loss of Kathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
-Chris and Amanda Mohr

Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. I'm sure Michelle and Todd join with me in sending their condolences, as well. I have such fond memories of Kathy when she was just a child growing up in Tulsa with my children and doing all the Blue Bird activities with her sisters and mother. What a joy Kathy was. Sue, Ed, Kristen and Karen, you are in my thoughts and prayers as is your sweet Kathy. May God comfort you, her family, and husband during this time of sorrow. Johnette

Sue & Ed, Karen, and to all of Kathy's family & friends. My thoughts have been with you and I know that you will find comfort in your memories.

Sue & Ed, Karen & Steve and the rest of Kathy's family (whom we didn't know) - please accept our deepest sympathies - we remember what a sweet girl Kathy was and we were pleased to have made her acquaintance.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this most difficult time.

Betty & Dan

Jerome My thoughts and prayers are with you. Know that she will be missed by people she worked with at New Edge. Lee