One year later

Still missing my friend.

Lynne
Spokane

Thinking of Aunt Kay

We hope you had a blessed day of celebration and memories.

Scott and Jean Sailer

My husband and I met Dick and Kay when we first moved to Redmond, OR. When we joined the church Dick said that he forgot our last name but could remember our first names as we are also Dick and Kay. Both of you meant so very much to us. We also found out 10 years ago Dick has the same disease that Kay had. He is still fighting. But like you with Kay you fight the hard fight. God Bless you
Dick & Kay Havig
The Dalles, OR

O.K. knew Dick from way back when he traveled with the Waldorf Quartet. We got reacquainted in California when we both lived there. Then we traveled to Cabo San Lucas,Mexico, together and had such a grand time! Kay was always full of fun and excitement! I will cherish those memories of her forever. Her faith was strong and I know that she is now enjoying her time with Jesus and O.K.

We have known Dick and Kay since 1998 when we met in Florida at an RV park. Since that blessed meeting, we have so many wonderful memories spent with them both in California for many years and a wonderful chance meeting in NB, Canada on our way to the Maritimes. Kay was a wonderful friend. She always put others before herself as witnessed by us over the years. She was a dear, dear friend and will be missed so much by all of us who loved her. Our love to you Dick and family, Al & Carol

Remembering Kay

And wishing we were able to go on one more trip together. I always enjoyed spending time with her and it still seems unreal that I will not be able to call her up for a chat. She was a strong woman, full of life and attitude! And I loved her and miss her. Carl and I enjoyed so much the times we have spent with Kay and Dick. We will both miss her very much.

Lynne and Carl

She was beautiful, from the inside out!

My memories include the fun we had when we talked about clothes and fashion! Barbara Dohn (who also had MDS), Kay, and I would joke and laugh; we had so much fun. I will also always remember her teaching. A few years ago, she taught a class at St. Johns, and I was so impressed with her candid way of getting her message across. As a pastor's wife, she was absolutely perfect in every way, and I was blessed to have known this beautiful woman. Love, Marilyn Brockman

Always Kay

Colleen and I had such good times with you at Outdoor resorts. You were a great neighbor, and friend. Also one of the reasons we kept returning. We will keep a careful eye on Dick for you. What a reunion we will have when we see you again.
Your friends Larry Colleen Kling

My Favorite Mother-in-law

I am honored to have had Kay as my Mother-in-law. What a blessing to marry into the Mathison Family. Physical distance kept as apart more than together, but what great memories of gathering for holidays! My favorite would be those gatherings in California - Tustin, Fresno, Long Beach, and the Desert. I appreciated every moment of spoiling, wisdom instilling and faith guiding that Kay and Dick would give to Kevin and Lauren. There were times that I wanted to pick up the phone and tattle on their youngest son, but mostly I am so very grateful for their love and wisdom that they shared with us all. I love you and miss you very much!! xxoo Lynda

What wonderful memories we have of being with you both and our first meeting in Florida while at an RV park there. We continued to enjoy many hours of fun, good food and conversation for about 14 or 15 years. Kay was always taking care of all of us. We will always remember her beautiful smile and loving ways. She will be so missed by all of us who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dick and your family during this time. Sending love and hugs. Al & Carol

Dick & Pat Tucker

Kay was a true inspiration as an individual as well as a partner with Dick in their beautiful ministry. Many have been blessed from knowing her and of her perseverance and grace in trying times. Dick & Pat

RedHill Days

Dick and I enjoyed Kay so very much. Our dinners out, at your home and ours. To know Kay was to love her. I know how much you will miss her. Gone through missing a loved one. Guess Kay and my Dick up there waiting for you(with your coupons) and me. Love, Donna

The Growing Up Years

Thank you, Kay, for the teenage years we shared; you and your family influenced my life in so many wonderful ways. One night, you said very directly,"Don't you think it's time now that you make a decision to follow Jesus?" So I did...thank you, Kay, for moving me along on my faith journey. Thank you, God, for this dear friend. "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints"

Ted

Dick,
What a wonderful tribute to a great lady. I will always remember the class she led on 1 Corinthians! I still have my notes on that class and it was conducted in 1983! She was a great lady. You and yours are in my prayers!
t

Her smile. She being by your side

From Mike and Donna Coppersmith

Kay was such a godly and beautiful child of the heavenly Father. She and Dick were a marvelous team together and we know that the idfference that they made individually and together in the lives of so many people will live on forever, even as Kay lives on forever with her Lord and Savior! Dick, may the God of all comfort continue to comfort and stengthen you in the days that are ahead. We love you and thank God for Kay and you! Mike and Donna Coppersmith

A beautiful and moving Memorial Service for a beautiful woman whose life was too short.
Diane Phillips
Indio, CA

Kay's memorial service was beautiful today. So many people loved her (and you Pastor Dick) and the emotion was everywhere, from the first song by Laura Stave, as she sang, "Precious Lord Take My Hand", to Samantha Corwin's deep, clear voice singing, "Just a Closer Walk With Thee", to Dick Tucker's fantastic rendition of "Because He lives I Can Face Tomorrow". Such beautiful songs, such wonderful friends. I know many of the songs were her favorites , and it was so touching.
One of the only things I can think of that wasn't mentioned was Kay's sense of style. I know, we talked about how she decorated your home so beautifully. But she also decorated herself beautifully. And we laughed about it.. Our friend Barbara Kay and I used to talk about fashion and Kay always made us laugh.
Kay made everyone feel special and comfortable in talking to her whatever she taught. She was so much to so many and she touched more lives than can be counted.
MARILYN BROCKMAN

Kay was like a sister to me

There is so much I loved about Kay. She was a strong personality, always interested in people and finding ways to connect with them. She loved being able to help those less fortunate and give to those organizations who are doing God's work among them. She challenged everyone she met to be genuine and to be real, because she could not be otherwise. She told me once that she would have liked to have had a sister and I was as close to a sister she had. That warmed my heart, and truth be told, I was closer to Kay in many ways than my own sis. We had great times together. These last few years, she made every effort to not let people know how difficult it was for her and to maintain her activities in ever way. She would not sit still and let her life come to her. She intended to meet it head on, as long as she could. Kay was rich in every ways; a Savior who loved her and whom she loved and worshiped, a wonderful family and so many friends. I miss her very much!
LYNNE LIND

Kay, I shall always remember your amazing smile, grace, warmth, and strength of faith through such trying times. You were so special to so many people that I know you will live in their hearts and in mine.

Dick, I cannot imagine the loss that you suffer. We who remain behind are the ones who struggle, as you so well know.

Doris Brannan

To: The Mathisons From: The Arnetts

Dick, Kay, John and Steve helped us make some very sweet family memories in Central Oregon during the the seventies. We loved the honda rides, the boat outings and just getting together. My love goes out to each one of you. Kay and I shared some sweet girl time and we both were understanding of one another because we were the only female counterpart in our families. It has been a pleasure to stay in contact through the years. My heart aches for your loss, but I do know it is good Kay's suffering is over.

Love and Prayer, Nevelyn Arnett and Family

ALWAYS SMILING

In spite of her physical problems, Cindy and I never saw anything but a smile on Kay's face. I guess the Lord does things like that for believers. Even though Kay suffered earthly woes she saw that she would be made whole again when she left us to join our Savior. In her quiet way we know she is waiting there for us...strong...healthy....and even more beautiful than she was here with us.
CINDY AND NED MILLIS

Beautiful, inside and out

As I think of Kay, I imagine she would be embarrassed if I talked about her attributes. I've thought many of the same things that have already been said in these tributes.

But one thing that stands out in my mind is how much fun we had. She was smart... savvy... caring... all those things, but she also had a sense of humor as we discussed fashion and other nonsensical, "girlie" things.

We'll miss you for so many reasons, Kay.

Marilyn Brockman

REMEMBERING KAY

LOVING GOD. LOVING FAMILY. LOVING LIFE! LOVING HOPE. These are ways I remember Kay. She credited her parents for forming her early faith and LOVE FOR GOD.
Her LOVE FOR FAMILY expanded for her as she met Dick, incorporating the Mathison clan, being sure to get family together in spite of the miles that separated.
LOVING LIFE meant doing the "extras"...the cruises, the motorhome adventures, reading while riding behind Dick on the motorcycle, always planning for the next trip or travel.
LOVING HOPE was apparent in these last years while living with a chronic condition. Hope covered pain, hope covered inconvenience, hope covered her weakening body.
Thank you dear Kay, for what you have modeled for us in a life well lived.
Rose Ann and Paul (*Rose Ann is Dick's youngest sister)

I am honored to have had the privilege to marry into the Mathison family. Physical distance often kept us apart, but I have lots of memories of holidays together and several road trips. My favorites would be those gatherings in California, Long Beach, Fresno and Indio and of course meeting in Tustin.
We have been spoiled over the past 24 years with many resort accomodations too. Thank you! Kay never did anything that wasn't well thought out and planned for months. Always top notch!
I am the most thankful for the love shown and wisdom bestowed upon my children by Dick and Kay. There is now a big part of our lives missing, but I hope to honor Kay by continuing what she shared with us for so many years.
She shared many conversations concerning financial planning, social gatherings and others in need. Our favorite Christmas gifts are goats!
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FAMILY REUNION IN HEAVEN!
With lots of love and gratitude,
Lynda

What wonderful memories Max and I had spending time with you at Outdoor Resorts and Sun River. Know there is a spot in Heaven for RVers. Lovingly, Norma

Caring touch reaching out to us...

Our friendship with and love of Kay began when she reached out to Jim at St. John's with concern as he underwent chemo and surgery. With an understanding which only someone who had also undergone chemo could have, she demonstrated compassion for him which we will always treasure. Even as she struggled with her own illness and treatment side-effects, she always looked with concern to know how Jim was doing and how Ruth was holding up. And how she carried herself! Always beautiful no matter how badly she felt. She is an inspiration to us and a light in our lives. Thank you dear, God, for sharing her with us. Our love to Pastor Dick and all of Kay's family.

Jim and Ruth Allen

THE TEENAGE YEARS

Thanks Kay, for the good influence that you and your family had on me in our growing-up years. I think especially of all our discussions on spiritual matters, and of the night you said, "Don't you think it's time you made a decision to follow Jesus?" And so I did. Thanks Kay for moving me along on my spiritual journey. Thank you God, for this good friend. "Blessed in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.
Dick, do you suppose she will remember she promised to give me organ lessons in heaven. But there probably won't be enough time...I'm a very slow learner! Oh, dear....now I suppose I should worry about that!
Jan and Ray Bielke
Alexandria, Minnesota

I was blessed to know Kay through Dick's interim time as pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran. Kay became part of our church family and my personal family. I will never forget our trip to Sun River to sit on the patio and have Dick barbecue steaks and Kay arranging the rest of the meal. I had my sister, Rosie, and my husband and father with me. The deer wandered around the perimeter of the patio and we enjoyed conversation until dark. Kay's smile and twinkle in her eyes will never be forgotten\. We all send our love and prayers.
Carol Horton

Kay will be remembered for her excitement and interest in everything she encountered. Her's was a life of service for the Lord along with Pastor Dick. They made a perfect couple in serving so many Lutheran churches across America with an inspiration of Love and Caring which warmed the hearts of many. Kay was accomplished in her professional responsibilities and made friends in every endeavor. The impact of the Grace and Perseverence in a difficult illness was an inspiration we will long remember. She was a child of God and her life was fulfilled.
Dick and Pat Tucker

Kay was such a godly and beautiful child of the Heavenly Father. She and Dick were a marvelous team together and we know the difference that they made individually and together in the lives of so many people, will live on forever, even as Kay lives on forever with her Lord and Savior. Dick, may the God of all comfort continue to comfort and strengthen you in the days that are ahead.We love you and thank God for Kay and you.
Pastor Mike and Donna Coppersmith

WE WERE BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN KAY

So many memories of good times together. Kay was always there when you needed her. Our meeting in Florida in 1998 is where it all began because of Kay's outgoing personality. Following that, we continued to enjoy many memorable occasions. We feel that our lives were blessed having Kay as a friend and she will be missed. Love to you, Dick and your family. Al & Carol

Wonderful neighbor & friend

Kay was a ray of shining light in Sunriver--she always brought love and laughter with her wherever she went. I will always have fond memories of exchanging stories and laughs over margaritas with Kay in Sunriver. Sadly, I regret to say that Sunriver will not be the same without Kay's radiant personality. Kay was one of those people who always made a positive impact on other people's lives and had the ability to brighten anyone's day. I'll miss Kay very much!

Love & prayers, Kirsten Shangraw

What a wonderful tribute to a great lady. I will always remember the class she led on I Corinthians. I still have my notes on that class and it was conducted in 1983. She was a great lady. You and yours are in my prayers.
TED TOLL

Kay was one of the lights of my life. My husband Dick and I enjoyed our friendship and missed you when the Mathisons left Orange County. We enjoyed joining the church the same day at Red Hill Lutheran, the many dinners at each others home, and the nights out with "coupons". My love to Kay's beautiful family. We know she and Dick S are sitting up there waiting for us.
DONNA SUTTON

WE WERE BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN KAY

So many memories of good times together. Kay was always there when you needed her. Our meeting in Florida in 1998 is where it all began because of Kay's outgoing personality. Following that, we continued to enjoy many memorable occasions. We feel that our lives were blessed having Kay as a friend and she will be missed. Love to you, Dick and your family. Al & Carol

Pastor Karla Halvorson

Kay, thank you for your encouragement as I entered the ministry. You helped me understand that a pastor and a pastor's spouse can be anyone they want to be, that there are to be no expectations other than the ones we give ourselves. Thank you for the way you demonstrated the freedom to be yourself. And to be beautiful. You are such a beautiful woman.
The entire Halvorson family is deeply saddened.

Thanks for sharing your beautiful life with me, Kay

My dear Kay, There is a big empty spot inside of me, that no one else can ever fill.....But you are still with me in so many ways. You continue to inspire me every day. I am so thankful for the 55 years that God has given us. I will be forever enriched by the beautiful memories we have created together....But it really hurts, that we can not add to those memories anymore....But I believe in the promises of God, and I know we be together again and the way Jesus has described the Kingdom of Heaven....."The best is yet to come!"
Your "soul-mate" Dick

So fun to have been with you at Outdoor Resorts.You. Were one of the reasons we kept going back. We just had a brief quality time of fellowship with you on this earth that will be eclipsed by the fellowship we will have with you and our Lord Jesus when we all get to be with you again.