Richard, Beverly, Janet and Rick,
Kevin was 4 months old the first time I held him in my arms. How privileged I felt that you trusted me with the care of your children. The first game
Kevin and I played was- how many times could he throw his toys off his walker tray and how many times could I pick them up! He was a happy baby and so easy to love. Over the course of the next few years Kevin, Shannon and I shared lots of laughter and made many memories. I especially like to remember the time my dad and I took Kevin and Shannon skating. They were probably 5 or 6 years old. Kevin was excited and anxious to skate, Daddy had him by the hand and I had Shannon. As soon as Kevin stepped on to the rink his little arms and legs became like propellers, Daddy tried to hold on to him but they both ended up in a pile on the rink and we all four laughed until we cried. We eventually put Kevin between the two of us and managed to get around the rink several times with Kevin smiling all the way. I also remember the day he and Shannon picked me a bouquet of Iris out of Mrs. McMurphy's prize winning Iris garden. There they stood grinning ear to ear with several of her Iris in their little hands, bulbs and all! Then there were the clown costumes, the cowboy, cowgirl outfits and all the times people would ask me if they were twins. We still have the locket he gave Shannon with his little chubby cheeks in one half and hers in the other. Most of all I remember what a kind and gentle spirit Kevin had, he was just happy no matter what we were doing.
Over the last several days Shannon and I have shared other memories of Kevin and we are so grateful that you allowed him to be a part of our lives.
The last time I held Kevin was at his going away party when he joined the service. Although several years have passed my memories of him will always be a happy part of my life and I know Shannon and I will hold him in our hearts forever. Please know that we are always here for all of you and that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Cathy Cole
Kevin..You are one of the most special people I have ever been blessed to know and Dearly LOVE. I will miss that beautiful smile that shined & warmed my heart like the sun! Always the 'peacemaker' and encourager' . The Bible says "Blessed are the peacemakers; God shall call them His sons".
