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Easter Joy And Blessings To All!

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

Karen has been remembered in Easter Eucharist.

I hope you are having a good day. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

God bless you always, and God bless all of Karen's friends and loved ones.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette

Today's Collect:

Almighty God, who through your only-begotten Son Jesus Christ overcame death and opened to us the gate of everlasting life: Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the day of the Lord's resurrection, may be raised from the death of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

+++

Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!
our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!
suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!
unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia!
who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!
sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia!
our salvation have procured, Alleluia!
now above the sky he's King, Alleluia!
where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!
praise eternal as his love, Alleluia!
praise him, all ye heavenly host, Alleluia!
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia!

Words: Compleat Psalmodist, 1749
Stanza 4, Charles Wesley (1707-1788)

Music: Easter Hymn, from Lyra Davidica, 11708; adapt. The Compleat Psalmodist, 1749

Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/j/j038.html

+++

Gratefully. Faithfully. Peacefully.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, April 12, 2009 1:22 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am thinking of you, and remembering sweet Karen, on this day of holy resting. I have thought of her often during the special services of this holy week.

God bless you always.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette

+++++++

O Sorrow Deep!

O sorrow deep! Who would not weep
with heartfelt pain and sighing!
God the Father's only Son
in the tomb is lying.

The Paschal Lamb, like Isaac's ram,
in blood was offered for us,
pouring out the life that he
might to life restore us.

Blest shall they be eternally
who ponder in their weeping
that the glorious Prince of Life
should in death be sleeping.

O Jesus blest, my help and rest,
who tears I pray thee, hear me:
now, and even unto death,
dearest Lord, be near me.

Words: St. 1, Friedrich von Spee (1591-1635); tr. Charles Winfred Douglas (1867-1944). Sts. 2-3, James Waring McCrady (b. 1938). St. 4, Johann Rist (1607-1667); tr. Charles Winfred Douglas (1867-1944)

Music: O Traurigkeit

The Hymnal 1982, #173

Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/o/o594.html
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A, - Saturday, April 11, 2009 12:42 AM CDT

Thinking of Karen today and of her family, especially Samantha and Sabrina, Wishing I could see her beautiful smile and hear her happy laughter. Three years today.

Julie Mason
Julie Mason <julie-bugg@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN 37075 - Sunday, March 22, 2009 3:37 PM CDT

Happy St. Patrick's Day To All!

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

It is hard to believe that almost three years have passed since Karen departed for heaven. I am sure that you miss her each day. God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

~Colette

Today's Collect:

Almighty God, in your providence you chose your servant Patrick to be the apostle of the Irish people, to bring those who were wandering in darkness and error to the true light and knowledge of you: Grant us so to walk in that light that we may come at last to the light of everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, March 17, 2009 10:42 AM CDT

Thinking of Karen as the anniversary rolls around. still very raw... Missing you sweetheart!!!
Lynda Barton <TIEDYELYNDAB@COMCAST.NET>
DENVER, CO - Thursday, March 5, 2009 9:55 PM CST

I miss you and Toni more than I can say. I so badly want to see you both again. Take care of each other. I love you!!!
Lisa <lisarobfont@bellsouth.net>
- Wednesday, December 31, 2008 8:19 AM CST

So sorroy to hear of Toni's passing. She was your sidekick, Kar!!! She was always there with us! Take good care of each other, girls! See you in the future!!! Much love, and many memories
Lynda Barton <TIEDYELYNDAB@COMCAST.NET>
AURORA, CO US OF A - Tuesday, December 30, 2008 10:24 PM CST

Happy Thanksgiving, Rossi and Caruso Family!

I was thinking of Karen this past weekend and again this morning, but I did not have an opportunity to write in her guest book. I hope you are enjoying warm memories of an awesome wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend.

God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

~Colette

Now thank we all our God,
with heart and hands and voices,
who wondrous things hath done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mother's arms
hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.

O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever-joyful hearts
and blessèd peace to cheer us;
and keep us in his grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills
in this world and the next.

All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given,
the Son, and Holy Ghost,
supreme in highest heaven,
the one eternal God,
whom earth and heaven adore;
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.

Words: Martin Rinkart (1586-1649), 1636
trans. Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878), 1858

Music: Nun danket alle Gott (later form of melody by Johann Crüger, 1598-1662)

Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/n/n139.html

Gratefully. Thankfully. Peacefully.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Friday, November 28, 2008 0:23 AM CST

Dear Sabrina,

Reading your message to your mother completely changed what I was going to say, here, in her guest book. I certainly hope you and your family "got your Aunt Toni" back.

I lost both of my parents, when I was about your age. About five years later, something really shook my faith concerning their existence. I was greatly helped by the writings of Madeleine L'Engle, whose fiction and autobiographical thoughts should be available at your local library. Perhaps they will help you as well.

God bless you, and God bless all those that you love.

Grace and peace,

~Colette
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A, - Saturday, August 30, 2008 1:23 PM CDT

hey mom its bean. as u already know, i'm sure, aunt toni had a heart attack last night and is now in a coma, and we're waiting for her to wake up and come back to us. we don't know much about any brain damage but hopefully we will get good news in the morning. but i have a feeling shes up there talking to u in heaven, and i would like u to please tell her that we need her down here. we already lost u and we cant go through that again. i came home this morning and grandma flew here too and when me sam and grandma went in the room to talk to aunt toni, we wer saying "mom must be yelling at aunt toni about her hair and telling her to stop following u everywhere u go!"
mom i miss u so much and think of u everyday, and i pray to YOU that u please bless aunt toni and talk to God and have him do whatever he can to get her back to us and healthy. i love u mom, and as much as aunt toni wants to be with u, we're gonna need a little more time with her first! so don't be selfish!...just have a little chat and send her back. i hope shes telling u i love and miss u so much and telling u about alex and taylor who wish they could have know the best mother in the world.

GIVE US A MIRACLE, MOM.
i love u
sabrina <srossi@utk.edu>
hville, tn usa - Wednesday, July 16, 2008 7:40 PM CDT

want to view eddie austins entrys and pictures
Michelle Jerome <mandmjerome@gmail.com>
bossier city , la usa - Friday, July 4, 2008 3:19 PM CDT

I am thinking of Karen tonight, and I remembered her in Eucharist this past weekend.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, June 5, 2008 9:55 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am thinking of Karen on this weekend of remembering both our military dead and our departed loved ones. May God bless her sweet spirit, and may God bless all of you.

Grace and peace,

~Colette

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, May 25, 2008 1:49 AM CDT

I am thinking of Karen today. She was a good mother.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, May 11, 2008 8:49 AM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I certainly got some new insight into Karen reading the long note just ahead of this. May God bless Karen's sweet spirit always.

Karen was remembered in Holy Eucharist yesterday.

God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

~Colette

Today's Collect:

Almighty and everlasting God, who in the Paschal mystery established the new covenant of reconciliation: Grant that all who have been reborn into the fellowship of Christ's Body may show forth in their lives what they profess by their faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, March 31, 2008 0:01 AM CDT

I am so saddened to hear of Karen's death. She was my realtor 4 years ago when I bought my first house and I had so much fun looking at houses with her that I was looking her up again to buy my next house... only to find out that the world has lost such a bright and shining star. :(

SO... in an effort to let her light shine on, I've got to share this story from our house-hunting adventures:

We were driving through Lake Forest subdivision (if you don't live in LaVergne, TN, you might not understand the significance of that -- there are 3500 homes in this subdivision). We had been doing this for 3 days and had reached a point of desperation. :) So we were stopping at EVERY house that had a "For Sale" sign in the yard, calling the number and begging to look at the house. Karen was HYSTERICAL! We would walk in the front door of the house and she would immediately say "No, dear, you are NOT living here" and we would turn around and walk back out. In the end there were only 2 that we had come across that she would "allow" me to consider because as she said, "These 2 are suitable for you because I'd let my daughters live there." :) I've lived in one of those two for the past 4 years.

So we go in this house that the listing realtor says has been vacant for months and Karen says, "Hmmmm" and is looking at something in the living room. The house is completely empty. I walk past her and start opening doors in the hallway. The second door that I open has a mattress on the floor and there is a man wearing only underwear laying sprawled across the mattress. I scream and slam the door. Karen turns and says "What?" I reply, "There's a man in there!" She yells "Get out!" So we race out the door tripping over each other and Karen fumbles to get the key back in and the door locked. She's screaming "Get in the car!" the whole time. She gets the key back in the box and comes flying to the car and we peeled away from the house. We stopped about 1/2 a mile down the road to laugh hysterically to the point of tears. Then she called the listing realtor and explained that the house was indeed NOT empty and that for all we knew the guy in the house could be dead but that we didn't stick around to find out. I still fall out laughing every time I think of that adventure!!

Karen made buying my first house so easy and so much fun! I enjoyed every minute I spent with her!! May her memories live on! I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jessica <jessmorgan56@yahoo.com>
LaVergne, TN USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 11:00 AM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am thinking of you today, knowing that your connection with this day is strong, because of the suffering you have known with Karen's illness. May God bless you always.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette

The Collect For Good Friday:

Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family (the assembled church), for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Friday, March 21, 2008 11:59 AM CDT

I went out to get my mail just now and remembered the many times you would be outside and call out to me and we would laugh and talk in the street together with little Ozzie running around. Almost two years. If I can still be brought to tears coming here and seeing that cute picture of you on the lawn posing with your Hanning Realtors sign I cannot even begin to know the empty place left in your family's hearts and especially Sabrina and Samantha. So many times I think of you and something you said and I smile and then for a while I feel so sad. I treasure the time I spent with you and I will never forget you sweet friend. Love Julie
Julie Mason
Hendersonville, TN 37075 - Wednesday, March 19, 2008 7:02 PM CDT

Happy Valentine's Day, Rossi and Caruso Family!

I am thinking of you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette

Today's Collect:

Almighty and everlasting God, who kindled the flame of your love in the heart of your holy martyr Valentine: Grant to us, your humble servants, a like faith and power of love, that we who rejoice in his triumph may profit by his example; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, February 14, 2008 11:24 AM CST

hey mom, i just found out from stina that danielle got diagnosed with thyroid cancer. shes gettin it taken out this week and then goin through radiation so im praying everything goes great and she gets better ASAP! please watch over her and protect her and keep her strong and happy and gettin healthy!! i love and miss u everyday mom. its so hard without u but im just trying to be as much like u as possible to remember u and be the best person i know how to be!
I LOOOOVE YOU FOREVER!
bean
sabrina <srossi@utk.edu>
knoxville, tn usa - Sunday, February 10, 2008 5:56 PM CST

Dearest Karen, Thanks for coming in my dream this past Easter, and letting me know that you are Happy in Beautiful Heaven! Can't wait to see you again! I was so Blessed to have you as my sister here on earth. Your enthusiasm for life was spread just as God wanted it to be. He had a plan for you, and you went above and beyond what he had in mind. I remain close to Sam and Bean; I love them so much! Wish they were living closer to me and Erica. You're voice and laughter ring in my ears every day; but I miss you like no other! Love, Love You So Much!
Ride with the Angels, Karen! It's not the same here without you!
Always with Me!
Chrissy
Chrissy <angellface58@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT USA - Tuesday, January 15, 2008 11:22 AM CST

gotta bunch of pictures from a party at the lake house, shorly before i moved to Colorado. I believe it was Sabeina's b'day, and allll the retty boys were there. dave mathews, mike cyrtall dave someboooooooody, and the band played in the rain,. under the porch. If outsiders only knew the closeness we had, WE WERE THE '80'S. CAN'T FORGET A DAY IN MY LIFE WITH YOU IN IT. iTS TOO SOON FOR YOU...SLEEP WELL MY FAIRY PRINCESS...
LYNDA {FALIS }BARTON <TIEDYELYNDAB@COMCAST.NET>
AURORA, CO USA - Thursday, December 27, 2007 11:20 PM CST

mom, i miss u so much. i dont really know what to say, i just wish u were here with us for christmas. u were the center of our whole family, rossi, caruso and all, and its just not the same without u. i feel like i just went to college last august and havent seen u since then and when i reaalize thats not true its so hard to think about. its not fair to have lost u so young. i know i was always moody when u were around but i know its just because i was a bitchy teenager and i KNOW u know i loved u more than anything. as much as i hated u horribly singing every wrong word to songs, id give anything to hear it again! i dream about u everynight, and i think about u every single day. i know ur watching over me and u hear me all them time, but i want u to know, no one is the same without u. u were such a big part of everyones life that u met, and i hope i can be even half the person u were.
i love and miss u forever, mom.
bean <anirbasr@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 23, 2007 2:55 AM CST

mom, i miss u so much. i dont really know what to say, i just wish u were here with us for christmas. u were the center of our whole family, rossi, caruso and all, and its just not the same without u. i feel like i just went to college last august and havent seen u since then and when i reaalize thats not true its so hard to think about. its not fair to have lost u so young. i know i was always moody when u were around but i know its just because i was a bitchy teenager and i KNOW u know i loved u more than anything. as much as i hated u horribly singing every wrong word to songs, id give anything to hear it again! i dream about u everynight, and i think about u every single day. i know ur watching over me and u hear me all them time, but i want u to know, no one is the same without u. u were such a big part of everyones life that u met, and i hope i can be even half the person u were.
i love and miss u forever, mom.

bean <anirbasr@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 23, 2007 2:54 AM CST

i didnt even know people still wrote on this...wow, you touched so many people's lives mom...its still so hard to live everyday without you...you were the best person in my life and i think about you every SINGLE day...im so sad that you are gone...i know you would be so proud of me for the things i have done the past year...i just wish you were here to see it all...i hope you are watching...thank you so much for the good things you have helped bring into my life mom...its just not the same without you...i love you so much
samanTHA Rossi <SAMANTHROSS@YAHOO.COM>
GOODLETSVILLE, TN - Wednesday, December 12, 2007 10:46 PM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I just want you to know that I thought of Karen, at Eucharist, tonight. She has made a lasting impression on this guest book signer.

Grace and peace,

~Colette
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, October 11, 2007 9:13 PM CDT

Karen....I miss you, my friend. I saw Julie had written recently and it made me smile. I feel like I have no outlet for my sorrow, for how much I miss you and your amazing enthusiasm for life. I hope you know how much you are missed and what a great friend you were to so many of us....we love you still.
Sherry Olson <sherryolson1@hotmail.com>
Franklin, TN USA - Monday, October 8, 2007 10:34 AM CDT

Karen I miss you and think about you often - mostly that it is so unfair that someone with so much life and love and vibrancy has been taken when all you wanted to do was live live live! Along with the sadness I always end up laughing too, since you always made me laugh and filled any room with sunshine. I saw Sabrina's profile on myspace and what a wonderful wonderful young lady she is! I wasn't able to view Samantha's profile since it has a block on it so that only her close friends can view her info, but from what I could see I know how proud you are of them! It is beautiful how close they are to each other. I am grateful to have known you and to have experienced having such a GREAT friend and neighbor. I love you very much.

Julie
Julie Mason <julie-bugg@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 0:03 AM CDT

happy birthday, my dear karen. still thinking about you, and missing you on this special day.
Lynda Barton <tiedyelyndab@comcast.net>
Aurora, CO 80017 - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:06 AM CDT

Happy Birthday to my forever friend. I love and miss you so......
Love to all of you who are thinking of her today also.
Always,
Beth
Beth Kohler (Booty) <bkohler22@aol.com>
Mokena, IL - Monday, July 23, 2007 4:01 PM CDT

Happy birthday to my forever friend! I love and miss you so......

Beth Kohler (Booty) <bkohler22@aol.com>
Mokena, IL - Monday, July 23, 2007 3:49 PM CDT

Happy Fourth Of July Rossi and Caruso Family!

I continue to think of Karen and to remember her at Eucharist.

God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

Colette

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Wednesday, July 4, 2007 4:50 PM CDT

Blessings On The Feast Of Pentecost Rossi and Caruso Family!

I have thought of Karen during this festive day.

God bless her sweet spirit, and God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

Colette

Almighty God, on this day you opened the way of eternal life to every race and nation by the promised gift of your Holy Spirit: Shed abroad this gift throughout the world by the preaching of the Gospel, that it may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

~The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 227
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, May 27, 2007 10:20 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family and Friends of Karen,

I thought of Karen, in church, Sunday morning, and although I do not visit this guest book a lot now, I do think of her regularly, when I am beneath the Jesus and the Children window.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette

The Collect For Ascension Sunday:

O God, the King of glory, you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven: Do not leave us comfortless, but send us your Holy Spirit to strengthen us, and exalt us to that place where our Savior Christ has gone before; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 226
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, May 21, 2007 0:08 AM CDT

Love you Karen! and miss you more each day
Casey
hendersonville, TN - Tuesday, April 10, 2007 9:11 AM CDT

THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FROM MY INNER SELF, MISSING YOU SO M.UCH.THIS IS TH E MOST HURTFUL LIFE LOSS THAT I HAVE YET FACED. I CAN;T HELP BUT MISS YOUR HAPPY FACE, AND YOUR AWESOME LIFES ATTITUDE, I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU MY KAREN...BUT I THINK TO MYSELF, WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD...
LYNDA BARTON <TIEDYELYNDAB@COMCAST.NET>
AURORA, CO USA - Sunday, April 8, 2007 11:55 PM CDT

Blessings On Easter Morning!

"Welcome, happy morning!"
age to age shall say:
hell today is vanquished,
heaven is won today!
Lo! the dead is living,
God for evermore!
Him their true Creator,
all his works adore!

Refrain:
"Welcome, happy morning!" age to age shall say.

Earth her joy confesses,
clothing her for spring,
all fresh gifts return
with her returning King:
bloom in every meadow,
leaves on every bough,
speak his sorrow ended,
hail his triumph now.

Months in due succession,
days of lengthening light,
hours and passing moments
praise thee in their flight.
Brightness of the morning,
sky and fields and sea,
Vanquisher of darkness,
bring their praise to thee.

Maker and Redeemer,
life and health of all,
thou from heaven beholding
human nature's fall,
of the Father's Godhead
true and only Son,
mankind to deliver,
manhood didst put on.

Thou, of life the Author,
death didst undergo,
tread the path of darkness,
saving strength to show;
come then, true and faithful,
now fulfill thy word,
'tis thine own third morning!
rise, O buried Lord!

Loose the souls long prisoned,
bound with Satan's chain;
all that now is fallen
raise to life again;
show thy face in brightness,
bid the nations see;
bring again our daylight:
day returns with thee!

Words: Fortunatus, (ca. 535-600);
trans. John Ellerton (1826-1893), 1868

Music: Fortunatus (Arthur Seymour Sullivan, 1872)
Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/w/w189.html
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, April 8, 2007 1:47 AM CDT

Blessings On Palm Sunday And During Holy Week!

Thank you for updating Karen's website. This stranger was touched by Karen and continues to remember her in holy places, especially beneath the Jesus and the Children window, in our church, here in Clifton Park.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, April 1, 2007 5:45 PM CDT

Thinking of you on this day Karen, loving you and missing you...
Lynda Barton <TIEDYELYNDAB@ATT.NET>
Aurora, CO - Saturday, March 24, 2007 11:23 AM CDT

It seems impossible that a year has gone by, yet I remember every last minute I spent with her. I continuously feel her presence in my life everyday. These emotions & feelings are so powerful. I carry many beautiful pictures in my heart & mind. Memories that can never be erased. I feel so lucky to have had her in my life, & this continues thru my relationships with Samantha, Sabrina and the family & friends we have shared.. Know I am thinking of you on this day and everyday. Karen continues to shine as bright as the light in a star. I feel so blessed to have been given the gift of sharing her light with so many.
My love to all who are missing her presence on this earth today.
Beth

Beth(Booty)Kohler <bkohler22@aol.com>
Danbury, CT 06811 - Thursday, March 22, 2007 8:10 AM CDT

steve, sam, sabrina, toni, debbie, lisa, frank, and my other girlfriend---- lorraine:
i want to let you all know that i am thinking of our girl. i am also thinking of you all, as i am sure that no matter how i feel, you all are that x 1,000. more maybe, but you catch my drift. karen.... oh, boy.... karen i hope you are peacefull and at peace. seems lame to say that but that's what i hope for you, dear.
all my fondest wishes.
russell
Russell Gambino <Russg13@aol.com>
Clayton, NC USA - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 8:14 PM CDT

Thinking of you Karen
Eric, Steph and the girls
Stephanie Rossi <cuomorossi@aol.com>
Brookfield, CT - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 7:28 PM CDT

Happy St. Patrick's Day Rossi and Caruso Family!

I continue to think of Karen. God bless her sweet spirit, and God bless all of you.

Grace and peace,

~Colette
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, March 15, 2007 1:44 AM CDT

hello to all...this is Lynda in Colorado, thinking of you all... how Steve and the girls are doing...? You are in my thoughts daily...The pain of a missing friend does not get much easier, that is what keeps the memory alive.
Lynda Barton <tiedyelyndab@att.net>
Denver, CO - Monday, February 5, 2007 6:26 PM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family and Friends of Karen,

This morning, while at Eucharist, and while driving home from church, I was thinking about Karen. I was also thinking of the power and beauty of story. I am still hoping to read some more stories about Karen. But, even if you do not share Karen stories, here in her guest book, please keep stories of Karen going among yourselves. In that way, she is honored, and in that way, she remains alive on this earth, as she is truly alive in the nearer presence of God.

God bless you all, and God bless Karen.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Collect For The Feast Of The Presentation (February 2):

Almighty and everliving God, we humbly pray that, as your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple, so we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts by Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

~The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 239

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Friday, February 2, 2007 12:42 AM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family and Friends of Karen,

Yesterday afternoon, at Holy Eucharist, I remembered Karen. I hope it comforts you to know that a stranger has been touched by Karen's life and by her passing, and that this stranger is remembering her, during this holy time of the year.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Here is the collect, and a hymn, for today, the fourth Sunday in Advent.

Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

~The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 212

Hark! the glad sound! the Savior comes,
the Savior promised long:
let every heart prepare a throne,
and every voice a song.

He comes the prisoners to release
in Satan's bondage held;
the gates of brass before him burst,
the iron fetters yield.

He comes, the broken heart to bind,
the bleeding soul to cure;
and with the treasures of his grace
to enrich the humble poor.

Our glad hosannas, Prince of Peace,
thy welcome shall proclaim;
and heaven's eternal arches ring
with thy beloved Name.

Words: Philip Doddridge (1702-1751), 1735

Music: Richmond (Thomas Haweis, 1734-1820)

Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/h/h077b.html
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, December 24, 2006 7:02 AM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family and Friends of Karen,

As we light the first of four Advent candles this weekend, the HOPE candle, let us remember Karen, who hoped in the Lord. I hope some of you, who knew Karen personally will share some stories of Karen with the rest of us, during this period of preparation and expectancy, before Christmas.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Saturday, December 2, 2006 11:15 PM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family and Close Friends of Karen,

I just want you all to know that I have been thinking of Karen during this time of the year when we give thanks. From this website and other CaringBridge sites, I know that there are many people out there, who thanked God, at church, and at turkey dinner, for Karen's amazing life.

God bless you all.

Grace and peace,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, November 27, 2006 11:16 AM CST

The universe is made of stories, not of atoms.

~Muriel Ruckeyser

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

Recently, Karen's friend, Lynda Barton, of Colorado, wrote that there are millions of Karen stories out there. Truly, as the quote above declares, the stories of our lives are the parts that endures, after the experience we call death. I hope you, and all of Karen's friends, will reflect on Karen's life and then post some of those Karen stories, here, for all to enjoy.

It is good to read that Karen's amazing daughters, Sam and Bean, are strong women, learning and living independently. But, from what this stranger has read, here, over the past months, how could they be anything but, as they had a strong and loving mother.

I apologize for not writing in over a month, but I have had a few busy weeks. Karen and her amazing legacy is in my heart, even when I do not write.

God bless all of you, Karen's family and friends, and God bless Lynda Barton, who should be among the first to write up some of those Karen stories.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, November 13, 2006 9:58 AM CST

Rossi Family:

Just wanted to stop by and let you know your Karen is not forgotten. Although we never met, I have followed the story since learning of her and her sweet spirit and remarkable life.

You remain in my prayers; Karen remains in my heart.

Love to you all,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Tuesday, October 31, 2006 9:48 PM CST

ANOTHER AWESOME FALL DAY, AND KAREN JUST BREEZED THROUGH MY MIND...I KEEP SEEING A STRANGERS NAME SIGNED TO THE GUESTBOOK, AND I WANT ALL HER FRIEND WHO KNEW KAREN TO KEEP HER MEMORY ALIVE, WITH KAREN STORIES, COZ THERE A MILLION OF THEM!!!! THANK YOU COLETTE, FOR KEEPING HER SITE GOING... LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU SO SO MUCH, KAREN LYNDAB.
LYNDA BARTON (FALIS) <TIEDYELYNDAB@ATT.NET>
AURORA, CO USA - Friday, October 6, 2006 0:11 AM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

It is a beautiful autumn day, here in southern Saratoga County, NY. I have been humming a hymn, based on the writings of St. Francis of Assisi, so I will leave the lyrics and a link to the tune for you below. Maybe you know it, as it is in many books. Perhaps Karen knew it.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

All creatures of our God and King,
lift up your voices, let us sing:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beams,
thou silver moon that gently gleams,
Refrain:
O praise him, O praise him,
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong,
ye clouds that sail in heaven along,
O praise him, Alleluia!
Thou rising morn, in praise rejoice,
ye lights of evening, find a voice, (R)

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
make music for thy Lord to hear,
Alleluia, alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
that givest man both warmth and light, (R)

Dear mother earth, who day by day
unfoldest blessings on our way,
O praise him, Alleluia!
The flowers and fruits that in thee grow,
let them his glory also show: (R)

And all ye men of tender heart,
forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
praise God and on him cast your care: (R)

And thou, most kind and gentle death,
waiting to hush our latest breath,
O praise him, Alleluia!
Thou leadest home the child of God,
and Christ our Lord the way hath trod: (R)

Let all things their Creator bless,
and worship him in humbleness,
O praise him, Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son,
and praise the Spirit, Three in One: (R)

Words: after Francis of Assisi (1182-1226);
paraphrase of "Canticle of the Sun" by Francis of Assisi.

Music: Lasst uns erfreuen
Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/a/a100.html

St. Francis's feast day was yesterday.

Gratefully. Faithfully. Peacefully.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, October 5, 2006 12:22 AM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am thinking of you and remembering Karen.

Grace and peace,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, September 28, 2006 6:29 PM CDT

thinking of you
Jesse <corporatecloud@gmail.com>
FL - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 7:43 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am stopping by today, to remind you that even a stranger, who has been touched by Karen, and by you all, thinks of you, and prays for you.

Today marks the ninth anniversary of the passing of Mother Teresa. She is surely a saint that Karen knew. Perhaps this week would be a good time to reflect on that wonderful woman and on how she and Karen were similar, and to also think of all of the saints, with capital letters, and the personal saints (Karen's parents, teachers, mentors, and friends) who helped Karen along her journey of life.

Beneath my signature, I will add a word of encouragement from Mother Teresa.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Communion with Christ gives us our strength, our joy, and our love.

~Mother Teresa Of Calcutta, Born Agnese Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, In Albania August 27, 1910, Died In India September 5, 1997

Gratefully. Faithfully. Peacefully.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 9:56 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I just want you to know that this stranger continues to think of Karen, from time to time. I remembered her and several others from your area, at Holy Eucharist, last night, on the Feast of St. Bartholomew.

God bless you all.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Saturday, August 26, 2006 1:04 AM CDT

I am thinking of Karen and of all of her loved ones.

May God bless you all!

Grace and peace,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, August 8, 2006 8:26 PM CDT

Love,
Jesse A. <abcwtf@gmail.com>
Coral Springs, FL - Monday, July 24, 2006 2:36 PM CDT

Dear Friends and Family,

I'm Steve's sister, Caryn (Rossi) Louie. Like many of you, I think about Karen every day and still can't believe she's gone. I take comfort knowing that Karen was surrounded by loved ones in her own home as she passed on. Still, there is a hole ...

Since Karen's death, I've been thinking a lot about all the blessings in my own life and feeling like I want to honor Karen's memory in a way that would benefit others. So ... I have decided to raise funds for cancer research by participating in the Walt Disneyworld Triathlon on September 24, 2006.

I am running in memory of Karen Rossi and in honor of everyone who has or is battling cancer.

The sponsoring organization is the Society for Leukemia and Lymphoma and the event is an Olympic distance triathlon (1 mile swim, 25 miles bike, 10K run). Although the distance is daunting, when that feeling hits, I remember the motto:

"If you think training for an endurance event is hard, try chemotherapy!"

I have committed to raising $3900 to help fund cancer research and I would like to ask the amazing folks on Karen's Caring Bridge website to consider making a donation in Karen's memory and to help those who continue to battle cancer. Contributions of any size help.

If you would like to make a donation, please e-mail me your mailing address and I will send you donation information.

Thank you for your support! Together, we can help save lives!

Caryn Rossi
Sister to Steve, Aunt to Samantha and Sabrina
Thankful for the 21 years I had Karen in my life
Grateful for the opportunity to help cure cancer

Caryn (Rossi) Louie <clrossi.louie@earthlink.net>
Carrboro, NC - Tuesday, June 27, 2006 11:31 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I hope it will be of some comfort to you this week to know that a stranger, that was touched by Karen's life, at the time of her passing, is remembering her, and is also thinking of all of you.

God bless each and every one of you!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

While grief at the loss of a loved one is great, the joy in receiving them back in the resurrection will be greater.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, June 26, 2006 8:18 PM CDT

well, i just got back from a looong week in Danburt, CT. i have been in Colorado for the past 13 years, and semi lost contact with Karen and the gang... All i could think about were the good old days in the 80's. Samantha and Sabrina were little girls!!! They probably don't even remember me, but I will never forget them!! Nor will i forget the good times we all had back in the day!! Venus Beach East, Sushi Yoshi, fashion shows... the list goes on and on!!! You were all in my heart and my head. Steve, since the Delta days!!! I love you all, as I have loved your mom. I know she took good care of all of you. I can't relate to how you all must feel right now. Know that you are thought of in Colorado often!!...And the deja vu I had while in CT. last week...
Lynda Aberisk Falis Barton <tiedyelyndab@att.net>
Aurora, CO - Wednesday, June 7, 2006 2:49 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I have thought of you often during this holiday weekend, dedicated to remembering. I hope you have enjoyed some good memories of Karen, and I hope you have also shed some healthy tears of bereavement.

For the rest of the week, I hope you can enjoy some of the good simple things of life, such as a cool glass of water, the sound of birds singing, and the sight and smell of flowers.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life, which are the real ones after all.

~Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of The Little House on the Prairie Books

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, May 29, 2006 9:37 PM CDT

Dear Webmaster (Steve? Eric? Lisa?)
Any chance of photos from Beanie's graduation and/or an update on a video of the Memorial Service?
It was great seeing everyone at graduation.
Qiuhu sends a big hug and a million questions.
Love you all
Aunt Caryn, Uncle Greg and Qiuhu <clrossi.louie@earthlink.net>
Carrboro, NC - Sunday, May 28, 2006 11:11 AM CDT

Samantha, I was thinking about your mom today and accessed the website and read your message fom Mother's Day. I have no idea how you feel because my mother is still alive. My dad is not. He died 8 years ago and I was FAR into my adulthood years when he died. My dad was EVERTHING a father could be. He was the epitomy of everything that was "right " and "true" in the world to me. When he died I thought a part of me had died, but it did not-I was simply in alot of pain because I was never going to see or hear him again. He was in complete renal failure- everything was shutting down! My family - my mom and sister could not accept he had to let go. He had nothing basically to hold onto in his physical being and days before, I realized God was allowing him to hold onto life for us. My dad had told a friend of ours that he could not let go of his life because he was "the girls" protector(mine and my sisters). I promptly whispered in his ear that it was OK to let go because he had taught us well and that we would take care of our mother. My point being- Samantha, you mom had no choice. If your mom had had a choice she would have taken care of you until YOU were in a nursing home. The only way I have coped with the loss of life of those people who have passed before me is to let the good parts of them live through me- whether it be laughter, generosity, empathy,sympathy,etc. All you can do is be the best person you can be because of ALL the lessons you have learned thus far and carry on. I have felt extreme grief and my advice to you is to feel your pain. There are stages in grief. Some say there are 7. I do not know, but I do know you have to experience them. I am so sorry for your loss. You, are in no way, form, or fashion accountable for what happened. You were THERE for your mother when she needed you. My dad told me when I was young, "Susan, do for people while they are alive, so if they cease to be, cry genuine tears of grief- not tears of guilt." Your tears and feelings of sadness are not of guilt but of genuine love and THAT is to be adamired and respected. Samantha, your mother loved you very much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are in my thoughts and prayers!!!!!!!!!!
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Saturday, May 27, 2006 4:13 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I remembered Karen beneath the Jesus and the Children stained glass window on Ascension Day (this past Thursday). I do hold her in my prayers when I remember others from your area, including Connor Hunley, Jason Archer, Tracy Lanius, Justin Rhodes, and Kevin Martin. May the memory of all be held in high regard this Memorial Day Weekend and always!

God bless Steve, Sabrina, Samantha, and all of Karen's loved ones!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Saturday, May 27, 2006 10:36 AM CDT

karen-i miss and love you so much.
my family is praying for you and yours every day.
sam,bean, and steve-i loove yall!
Casey <callis1027@yahoo.com>
hendersonville, TN - Tuesday, May 23, 2006 11:49 AM CDT

~Thinking of you all.

God bless you.

Grace and peace,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, May 22, 2006 7:05 AM CDT

Congratulations on your upcoming graduation, Sabrina. I am glad your aunt is coming for your special time.

God bless you and all of your family!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, May 18, 2006 2:42 AM CDT

Sam,
I am so very sorry for your sadness. The bond between you (and Bean) and your mother is such that you will always know what she would say when you need her and will always hear her saying it. Sammy, something my father said to me about how he felt about His Mother, echo in my mind every day since he told me. My father is 76 now and his mother died when he was your age (that was a long time ago). Just last year, we were talking on the phone, and he was telling me, as he always does, of the great memories of his mother and the great person she was - my heart sunk and he brought tears to my eyes when he said, "John, (long pause)I would give ANYTHING in this world just to have FIVE more minutes with her." It is one sentence I will never forget as long as I live, as that was a window into his heart and soul; I feel his pain all these years later. My father was always the stern Italian patriarch and emotions weren't really ever shared growing up, but he, to this day, always speaks of the great person she was and what she meant to him and all who knew her. It always reminds me of your mom and my friend Karen...life just always kicked up a notch in her presence. All who knew your Mom, feel your pain, NEVER hesitate to share that. I know that deep down, you know how we all feel about you, Bean, your Dad and your Mom.

I can't wait to see you. We'll hug, we'll cry.

Warm and loving regards,

Johnny B.
Johnny B <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Wednesday, May 17, 2006 6:04 PM CDT

Dear Steve, Sabrina and Samantha,

I am a friend of your sister (aunt) Caryn up in Chapel Hill, and just wanted to write and say how profoundly sorry I am for your loss. Karen is obviously a powerful spirit who will continue to make her presence felt for many years to come!

All any of us can do in this life is appreciate what we have when we have it... and you certainly did that. Please know that I am just one of the many who have been touched by the "ripple effect" of Karen's spirit, even though I never met her.

Congratulations, Sabrina, on your graduation this weekend. Your aunt Caryn brings a special hug from me.

Take care,
Allison Wiener
Allison Wiener <viennawoods05@yahoo.com>
Chapel Hill, NC USA - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 5:35 PM CDT

~Thinking of you all. Praying, too.

Grace and peace,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 7:29 AM CDT

Bless your aching heart, Samantha....I have thought of you all weekend. Your letter to your Mom was so beautiful, I can imagine that it made her cry tears of happiness at what a wonderful young lady you are, what a great daughter and friend to her.

You continue to be in my heart and prayers as you experience many firsts without your beautiful mother. I know she would be so proud of you, whether you are laughing or crying.

Know that you are loved...and remember that sometimes, even though we can't see the ones we love, they come to us in many different forms. We just have to be open to the possibilities in a gentle breeze, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, the song of a bird, or the kindness of a stranger. Keep your eyes and ears open. And know that your mother's love will never leave you.

Sending you hugs tonight, Samantha...

Kriste
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Monday, May 15, 2006 6:19 PM CDT

Dear Samantha,

I never knew your mother. I have come here from other CaringBridge sites, after your mother died. I am sure yesterday was very hard for you, a bittersweet day in every regard. There is nothing I can say to bring your mother back, and probably little I can say to comfort you, but I want you to know that I admire your mother for all the good she did in her life and for being a super mother to you and to your sister. I also want you to know that I am praying for you, your sister, and your father today.

God bless you!

Grace and peace,

~Colette (mother to a young man about your age)
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Monday, May 15, 2006 7:38 AM CDT

happy mother's day everyone...today has been sad, but God has been giving me the strength to stay strong. about a month before i lost my mom i wrote her a letter as if it was a good bye kind of letter, just lettin her know how much she meant to me. i have it in my room next to her ashes. im so glad that i got to let her know how i felt, i remember she told me she cried bc it was so beautiful. that day when i was at the hospital i was sobbing when she was in the bathroom and when she came out she was so sad seeing me like that. i layed with her in the hospital bed, and she told me not to cry. when i was leaving the hospital room i couldnt stop crying and she called my name and said "Samantha, no tears". so no when i get down i think about that and remember how mom didnt want me to be upset. i miss her so much. she was everything to me. she was my best friend in the whole world. she was my life. my life wont ever be the same without her. i just wish she could come back once in a while to visit me and i would feel better. i love you mom, you are my guardian angel...this is what i had written...
Mom, I love you more than anything in this world. I am sorry for everytime we have ever fought, or if i have ever been mean to you. You are the most important person in my life and you are always there for me even when you are going through the hardest time in your life. I know I can always count on you. You always help me through any problems I ever have and you always make me feel better. Now it is my turn to help you. I just want you to know that no matter what I will always be here for you. You have taught me so much in life, and you have made me the person who I am today and I am so grateful. I want you to know that I really really do appreciate everything you have ever done for me, and keep doing. You do everything you can to make our family (and any friends) happy. Now it is time for all of us to be your rock. I am here to suppor you and make you feel better when you are down. This has been a long hard journey and we are not finished yet. This, coming up, will be hard of course but WE WILL get through it! I really belive that bc look how much we've gotten through already. No matter what happens I want you to know that you have succeeded in everything you have done, and number one is being the best mom you could possibly be. Everyone i know has said to me atleast once that I am so lucky to have a mom like you and how great our relationship is because we are so close and they wish they had our bond. I love yo uso much and please pray and think positive! Please feel better! Love Samantha xoxo Ps...I hope i am the mother to my kids that you are I love u
samantha <samanthross@yahoo.com>
gallatin, tn us - Sunday, May 14, 2006 10:43 PM CDT

~Thinking of you all on Good Shepherd Sunday!

I will add the collect beneath my signature.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

The Collect For The Fourth Sunday In Easter:

O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

~The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 225
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, May 7, 2006 1:21 PM CDT

Hi, family...Just wanted to let you know you are still thought of with love. I pray you all are getting some rest, some peace, some comfort, some love...whatever you need right now to get you through the days ahead. I come here every day to see if there is an update. I never met Karen, but was sent here through Linda Martin. Seems we have a lot of Caring Bridge families in this area, many who have suffered great losses similar to yours.

Sam and Bean, I will be thinking of you two especially as we head into Mother's Day next week. I am sure it will be especially difficult for you, but from what I read, your mom was one special lady and I'm sure a number one mom! I hope you can spend some time remembering the good times with her and the time before cancer entered your lives. However you choose to recognize the day, I'm sure it will be the right way for you.

Know that you are all loved, and being lifted up in prayer by someone who wishes she could have known Karen personally! Blessings to you all and hugs from northern Davidson County,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Saturday, May 6, 2006 8:05 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I hope it means something to you to know that a stranger is thinking of Karen today and admiring the beauty she gave to our world. Perhaps some day, her lovely daughters, Sam and Bean, and her nieces, Heather and Meghan, will read A Ring of Endless Light and other books by Madeleine L'Engle. They always helped me, when I was in bereavement.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, May 2, 2006 12:19 AM CDT

Karen was my aunt, she was such a beautiful person. She reminds me alot of my mother(her sister) Debbie, because she was always so positive and fun and full of life.When I think about her now all i can see is a big smile and her dancing around my parents living room this past December singing "aint gonna holla back girl!" I am so thankful to have had those last few happy moments with her. Sometimes I wish I could give her one last hug, when she was at my parents house I wish I had held her in a big long hug and really took that moment in and realized it would probably be our last hug. I was a total beast when I was a child and I was talking to karen about this and how i was so insecure when i was a kid and she looked at me and said" but heather you were always so beautiful" her words meant so much to me. I wish I could have told her how beautiful she was in every single way, shape and form . I wish she was still here today. I see so much pain in my mothers eyes for losing her sister, I wish i could take away my mothers pain, I love her so much and hate to see her in such despair, a part of her is gone forever. Sam & Bean if you guys still read this I love you and miss you and hope you guys are doing ok, send my love to your dad as well. I know Karen is still with me and everyone that loved her. I have faith and believe that God does in fact have a reason for everything he does, I just wish it didn't hurt so many people so bad. I love you Aunt Karen Always!!!!!!!!
Heather Kohrhamer
Chicopee, MA USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 3:58 PM CDT

Hello Rossi family and friends...Just popping in to say hello and let you know you are being thought of with love tonight...not far from your home, and I'm sure all across the country. It seems from what I've read Karen left a trail of happiness and love and light!

Praying for your comfort as you continue to miss your beloved wife, mother, sister, friend....your very special Karen. May you feel God's loving presence and sense Karen in ways you never thought possible.

Sending love and big hugs from the Davidson/Sumner County line...

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Saturday, April 22, 2006 11:22 PM CDT

Dear Meghan,

I am very touched by your words, directly in front of mine in this journal for your Aunt Karen. I know her only from the website and from the Kevin Martin website, but it is obvious that your aunt was a very special lady. She was a loving wife, a great mother, a trusting aunt, and so much more. She was also a person of faith.

I am glad to read of your faith, Meghan. It is all right to be mad at God, that Karen has left this world, but remember, God does not give any of his children bad gifts. His gifts are always full of love and goodness. I am sure his fatherly heart also wept, when Karen suffered, and that he weeps in the bereavement of your Uncle Steve, your cousins, and you. Keep your faith, and let it grow.

Hang in there, Meghan, and know that today I pray for you.

God bless you and all of Karen's many loved ones!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Nothing loved is ever lost, or perished.

~Madeleine L'Engle, in A Ring of Endless Light

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A, - Friday, April 21, 2006 12:32 AM CDT

Hey Uncle steve, sam & beanie!! I miss you guys so much... I can't even begin to say how I feel... so I can't even imagine how you feel. I'm so sorry I haven't got to talk to you in person since aunt karen passed away. I can't believe I just even wrote that. I left you guys some messages but i dunno if you got them. It's just so hard, I mean I want to make everything better but I can't I want to talk to you guys but I don't want to make things hurt more..I look at this web site every day. Most of the time it's real late when I can read it by myself. I really hate getting emotional in front of people. I have aunt karens picture framed with a rosary draped over it, so I can see her all the time. I never realized how much I would miss her. Sometimes I just pretend she's still in TN just a phone call away.Remember when I was gonna move in with you guys? And I actually got a job? She taught me how to drive, she kept secrets from my mom for me when I had no one else to go to. Some days I hate God for taking her from us because she was just such a beautiful person, in and out. But then I think how could God not want her, I thank God every day that she was in my life as much as she was. And I pray that some way he could make things easier on you guys... Sam & Bean- you guys are just like your mom strong, & beautiful in every way. I know your taking care of uncle steve I hope everything is okay. I know how much he loved.. let me rephrase that.. loves her. But who can blame him, she is just that type of person. i hope you can find peace in knowing how many lives she has touched all across the country. I am just so thankful I am part of her family, it's so hard knowing that I can't just call or go fly up there to see her. But I have you guys and I want you to know that I'm always here and always will be just a plane flight away. I love you guys, your my family and we are a part of each other. That's something that can never be broken not even in death, so I know that Aunt karen is watching us and will continue to help us throughout our lives. I have to try not to mourn only to move forward with hope. Because I know that one day we all we be with her once again. Well I need to hurry up and send this... You wouldn't believe how many times I have written something then just deleted it. So I just want you to know I never stop thinking of you and to everyone else, thank you soooooooooo much for supporting my family!!!! Love you xoxoxoxoxox Love always, your cousin and niece Meghan
Meghan <Meghanrose87@hotmail.com>
Ft. Pierce, Fl - Wednesday, April 19, 2006 11:57 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

Thank you for sharing the note Karen wrote about the friendship and support she felt. From what I have read of her, she was a wonderful friend to many!

I have been thinking you, and of Karen, and of many other CaringBridge families, throughout this holy weekend. God bless you all!

Beneath my signature, I will add the entrance hymn we used at St. George's this morning and a link to the tune.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!
our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!
suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!
unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia!
who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!
sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia!
our salvation have procured, Alleluia!
now above the sky he's King, Alleluia!
where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!
praise eternal as his love, Alleluia!
praise him all ye heavenly host, Alleluia!
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia.

Words: Latin, 14th Century; Translated Lyra Davidica, 1708, Stanza 4, Charles Wesley (1707-1788)

Music: Easter Hymn, Lyra Davidica, 1708

Hear it at: http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/j/j038.html

Gratefully. Faithfully. Peacefully.

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, April 16, 2006 8:29 PM CDT

Steve, Sam & Bean,

Glad you guys were spared by the damage of the tornado. I finally got Toni's mother-in-law on the phone and she told me you were all fine.

I'm thinking of you daily in prayer, and I'm out here loving you. Hope to see you again soon.

Carole

Carole M <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
Ft. Lauderdale, fl usa - Tuesday, April 11, 2006 4:48 PM CDT

Hi Steve,
We are so sorry to hear about Karen's passing.
Our prayers go out to you and your family.

Richie & Joann Scarlet <RichieScar@verizon.net>
Millbrook, NY USA - Monday, April 10, 2006 1:20 PM CDT

Dear Lisa,

Thank you for letting us know, that after the tornados, Steve, Sam, and Bean are safe.

God bless you all early on Palm Sunday Morning!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY - Sunday, April 9, 2006 1:59 AM CDT

Dear Sam and Bean,

The tribute you wrote and presented at your mother's funeral is beautiful. I am sure she is aware of your words, your attitudes, and your faces. She is so proud of you, as any woman would be. You are fine young ladies, and I know you will live to do both of your parents proud.

Although I have not met your family in the physical sense, I was concerned for you all, when I heard of the storm damage in Gallatin. I will be eager to read the words that you and your dad are fine. Please have someone update the home page, as soon as possible, so all that visit this site, will know that.

Tomorrow Christians throughout the world begin Holy Week. You beautiful young women will be in my prayers.

Stay close to God and to each other. God bless you always!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Saturday, April 8, 2006 11:40 AM CDT

This is what Sabrina and I said at Mom's memorial and I want to share it with you all if you weren't there or if you want to hear it again:
Mom, You are the most beautiful person we have ever known. You were not only the best mother, daughter, sister, and wife, but most of all you were the best mother we could ever ask for. Our bond with you is so strong that it can never be broken even if your physical body is not here on Earth. We believe that you were sent here for a reason and that was to touch as many lives as possible and be the best person you could possibly be, and you have definately succeeded. Even the love you and Dad share made him a better man.
We know it's going to be so hard without you on prom, graduation, our weddings, and our childrens' lives, but you will always be with us in our hearts, our tears, our smiles, and our laughter. We will talk to you everyday. We will get through this because you've made us everything we are today. Please dont worry about us because we will all take care of eachother. We are so grateful for having the past two weeks to be with you and say "Good-bye". Now you are at peace with no more suffering and we have you to watch over us as our guardian angel until we see you again. We love you Mom and we will always miss you! Love Sam and Bean
sam <samanthross@yahoo.com>
gallatin, tn usa - Thursday, April 6, 2006 10:37 PM CDT

Dear Steve,Rossi & Caruso family:
I have just found out about Karen's passing, I have not seen or spoken with you for quite some time and was unaware of Karen's illness. When I think of karen I remember one of the most beautiful souls I have ever had the joy of knowing. Steve I was always amazed by the great love that you and karen shared as husband and wife, that is one of the things I remember about you both, you where truely blessed to have each other. For all of us that have had the good fortune to know karen we can say that our lives have been touched by an angel. May God's peace and love be with you always.
Patrick & Lisa McMinn <ptrmcm@aol.com>
Washington Depot, CT USA - Thursday, April 6, 2006 10:21 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I attended a Lenten service of Stations of the Cross earlier today. While in church, I thought of Karen, and of all of you. You and the Hunley, Martin, Rhodes, Lanius, and Archer families, also from Tennessee, are often in my prayers together. All have lost a beautiful child, or adult, far too early, to the monster called cancer.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, April 6, 2006 8:06 PM CDT

Sam (and Bean and Steve),
No one can take away the pain you feel, but we can all be there for you, and we are. It is because of the greatness of your Mother that the pain is so deep, but too, it is the reason that the love and support and bonding among all she has touched is all the more powerful. We are all with you to miss your Mom together. What your Mom was and what she had inside is so evident in you and Bean.

All our love all the time,
Johnny B. et.al.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Thursday, April 6, 2006 10:41 AM CDT

i cant believe this website is still going strong...well i can believe it bc mom is the greatest...its so hard to go on after this tragedy...i miss her so much...thanks for all of the support from everyone bc without it i definatley couldnt make it through... i love everyone who has been here for us...i have the best family and friends in the world. I found mom's toiletree bag in the garage and it has all her makeup and her precious "rapture" perfume in it and i started crying because the whole bag just smells of her...i miss her to death i just wanna hug her...one day...but I just want to let yall know that by this website still going on even after mom leaving is letting her LIVE ON! Thanks!!!!! LOVE xoxoxoxo
samantha <samanthross@yahoo.com>
Gallatin, TN USA - Tuesday, April 4, 2006 10:18 PM CDT

What a beautiful tribute from Karen's sister, Lisa! One of my favorite quotes is from Phillips Brooks, who penned the lyrics to "O Little Town of Bethlehem." He said, "Duty calls us to do things well, but love makes us do them beautifully." Lisa, you did beautiful things for Karen during her last months. God bless you!

I continue to think of Karen and to pray for all of Karen's loved ones.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, April 4, 2006 10:44 AM CDT

I was shocked and saddened by the news I received last week. I had no idea that Karen was so very sick. To Steve, Samantha and Sabrina and the entire Rossi and Caruso families my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

I met Karen many years ago in the "Good Ole Days" when she bartended at Pippa's in Danbury and lived in New Milford. I'll always remember Steve and Tony playing together and all of us traveling to watch Steve play with the likes of Peter Frampton and Taylor Dane and a few other groups that I can't remember.

I will always remember her beautiful smile and her wonderful laugh. And of course for me her match making. In closing I would like to share this very special poem in her memory.

I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun; of happy memories that I leave behind when day is done.

PS Thank you Sue S. for the website info.
Nick Azzarito Jr. <nazzarito4358@charter.net>
New Milford, CT USA - Monday, April 3, 2006 6:38 PM CDT

Continuing to lift the Rossi family up to the heavens, for peace and strength, and vivid memories of the laughter and love you all shared with Karen. Oh how I wish I had known her, even for a second!

Blessings to you family and friends,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Monday, April 3, 2006 6:30 PM CDT

Here at Spiritual Fitness we would like to officially make April – Karen Rossi Month.
For the entire month, a percentage of our proceeds will go directly to a college fund for her two daughters, as well as to The CaringBridge Website. All of you have a “Karen” in your life - a loving, good-spirited, wonderful, full-of-life woman, be it your mother, sister, daughter, wife or friend.

Help us a celebrate wonderful life at www.spiritualfitnesswear.com

I met Karen 14 years ago in Danbury, CT through my best friend Susie. My very first memories of Karen were her smile, her warmth and her laugh. I was only 18 at the time, but I immediately felt her energy and love of life! I remember wanting to feel the happiness she exuded. I was blessed just by knowing Karen, her husband Steve and two beautiful daughters, Samantha and Sabrina (Bean.) In January of 2005, Karen learned she had cancer, and throughout the course of the year, she went through many treatments, tests and chemo to fight the disease. Even as Karen was struggling to overcome this painful disease, she remained full of life, laughter and love. I was able to stay updated weekly through her journal at CaringBridge -

"It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth –

And that we have no way of knowing when our time is up,

We will then begin to live each day to the fullest,

As if it was the only one we had."

Love & Light

Heather Battey

True beauty comes from within.
Spiritual Fitness
tel: 949-582-2978
fax: 310-861-5911
www.spiritualfitnesswear.com

And in the end it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.
- Abraham Lincoln

Heather Battey <heather@spiritualfitnesswear.com >
CA USA - Monday, April 3, 2006 4:44 PM CDT

Steve,
Just a note to let you know that our thoughts are always with you (and Kar). We should remain close. I was just at Walmart cuz I needed to buy oil for the thirsty Saturn and thought of you as I was in the checkout line looking at the guitars and amps they carry up front. Worry no more about the expense of music equipment; Walmart has guitars for around $80 and another $40 for the amp. I didn't notice the brand, but I don't think it was a Fender. I shoulda written down the specs for ya since I was in line for about an hour; that'S cuz I was in the Express Line and one person was in front of me. She just happened to be the last person in the state that still writes checks. That wouldn't have taken too long, except for the fact that the the checkout girl just got the job after winning the "Stupidest Idiot In The World" contest. Winner got a blue vest and a lifetime guaranteed job in the Express Line, where rudeness is not only expected, it is encouraged. Rule number one is to "Never make eye contact with the customer - and if you do make eye contact, be sure to look at them with that 'I hope you never shop here again' look. Rule number 2 is "Always maintain conversations with other coworkers so that customers don't bother you." The Walmart vests shoud be changed from "May I Help You?" to "Get Away, Don't Look At Me, I'm Hideous."

Sorry to carry on. Always thinking of you, Sam and Bean (and Karen ...because I know she's watching EVERYTHING).

Love and respect,

Johnny B.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Monday, April 3, 2006 2:51 PM CDT

Dear Steve,Samantha & Sabrina
Wow! This is what comes to mind as I think about the funeral. Karen Caruso Rossi has touched so many lives and her funeral showed that. I am sure it was everything she would have wanted it to be. Alot of laughter, alot of music, alot of friends gathered to celebrate a life well lived. Karen's smile is one I will never forget! Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

On my way home from church today I was reading my Grandfathers mass card, and thought of you & Karen:

Fill not your heart with pain and sorrow, but remember me in every tomorrow. Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles, I've only gone to rest a little while. Although my leaving caused pain and grief, my going has eased my hurt and given me relief. So dry your eyes and remember me, not as I am but as I used to be. I will remember you all and look on with a smile. Understand, in your hearts I've only gone to rest a little while. As long as I have the love of each of you, I can live my life in hearts of all of you.

GOD BLESS YOU GUYS!
WITH MUCH LOVE & RESPECT
Michele Martorana Armiento <MNZMOM@COMCAST.NET>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Sunday, April 2, 2006 9:56 PM CDT

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

Yesterday, I remembered Karen, and four others, from your area, who have also died from cancer, at Eucharist. (They were Tracy Lanius, Kevin Martin, Jason Archer, and ten year old Connor Hunley.) All five passed from this earth much sooner that anyone would have wished. However, they are with God in a place where there is no sighing or pain, only life eternal. What a great Easter they will have two weeks from today!

Unlike the others listed above, I did not know about Karen, while she was alive, but, she has touched my heart, in her passing. What beautiful things her friends have written about her and about her family!

God bless all of you beautiful people, and God bless those other four families, from your area, who also are grieving. It is wonderful that you five families can "fix your hearts where true joys are to be found," with our Lord Jesus Christ. May each one of you have the grace, courage, and faith to do so, even today, even now.

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

The Collect For The Fifth Sunday In Lent:

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

~The Book Of Common Prayer, Page 219

Gratefully. Faithfully. Peacefully.
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Sunday, April 2, 2006 12:07 AM CDT

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Lori Pierce <hayden01@tds.net>
Mt Juliet, Tn - Sunday, April 2, 2006 10:53 AM CDT

Dear Steve, Samantha & Sabrina
You girls probably don’t remember me by my real name (Chris Chirco) but I am sure you remember me as The Dirt Man, or just plain Dirt.
Last night was a very sad night for me. I went to Pippas with my wife Lisa who you might also remember. Sue was there and she told me the news about Karen.

For quite a while now I have been keeping up with the events through this web sight and the occasional update from Sue. I have to admit that I had tried to write something here several times but every time I started I would find myself sitting there in front of the computer crying so I would just give up. I think it’s because I have a very close history with this horrible disease. I lost both of my parents, A grandmother, and grandfather the same way so I know how hard it is.

So here I am again sitting in front of my computer crying like a little baby. But this time I am not going to take the easy way out. I feel I owe it to her to let you guys know how inspirational she was to me. Karen made me want to be a better person. If there was ever a time that I needed anything she was always willing to help. No matter how bad a situation was, she would always find something good about it. Even if we got in an argument somehow she would turn it around and we would end up laughing. The world needs more people like Karen in it. It is a privilege for me to have been friends with her.

Even though we lost contact I still think about all of you every summer. I dock my boat directly across from the house on the lake in Brookfield. I can’t stop thinking about all of the fun times we had in that house. It is my understanding that there are plans for a special event in memory of Karen here in Danbury this summer. If there is anything I can do to help just let me know. I would be honored to help in any way I can.

God bless
Chris Chirco

Chris Chirco <cnc3356@hotmail.com>
Danbury, CT USA - Friday, March 31, 2006 11:05 AM CST

Steve,
Truly, I have no words. I haven't stopped thinking about you (and Karen) for a second in all of this. I hope it helps knowing that everyone else feels the same. I hope that knowing this, and having Sam and Bean as the world's finest girls, helps you through each hour of each day. We all need ya Steve, there are many more notes to play.

Love and respect,
Johnny B.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Thursday, March 30, 2006 4:50 PM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

A stranger, who has been signing Karen's book for several days, wishes to let you know that Karen was remembered, beneath the Jesus and the Children window, at St. George's Episcopal Church, here in Clifton Park, at Eucharist, on Saturday. It is beneath this window, where I pray for the healing of seriously ill children, and where I remember those who have gone on to our Father's Eternal Kingdom.

Someone who knows your family, Linda Martin, asked me to include her husband, Kevin, in my prayers there, several months ago, while he was ill. Kevin and another man from your area, Tracy Lanius, were remembered, with Karen, on Saturday.

The funeral tributes to Karen are amazing. Thank you for including them on Karen's home page.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~

Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, March 30, 2006 8:39 AM CST

Dear Steve,Samantha & Sabrina,

This past weekend was one I will remember for the rest of my life. How bittersweet it was. My entire trip back home I sat quietly starring out the window of the airplane, trying desperately to understand God's timing. I can only trust that HE has a reason for everything and everything HE does is in His perfect timing.

I come away from this very sad and beautiful experience, reminded of a few things that I learned years ago with my own brush with death and that is; how life is truly but a vapor and how very important it is to say these 2 simple phrases that can heal and mend wounded heart; "I love you" and "I'm sorry".

That is why I am writing this, I have so much inside of me tears are just flowing as I sit here and write. Sometimes we don't realize that we have touched a life along the way, and the time may come when God calls us home, and we never took the opportunity to let people how much they meant to us. I know Karen knew, because fortunately I was able to spend time with her and tell her so when she was here in Florida.

Steven I want YOU to know that since I was 17 years old, I stood starring up at you as a part of many admiring eyes just in total awe because of your musical genius. I was reminded of that as I watched you play this past Saturday. Karen saw that talent years ago and believed "someday" you would make it to the big time! You are loved as a person and resepcted as the talented musician that you ARE. I always did and always will hold love for you.

Samantha, I watched you in amazement as you have grown into this vivacious, and beautiful young woman. The old saying "the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree" is what comes to mind when I look at you. You have your mothers joy and charisma. I love you Sammy...

Sabrina, you're my little butterfly all grown up. You are so adorable, and cheerful you can't help but smile with you. You are a wonderful YOU! You and Sam have alot of love and support out here, so keep that knowing tucked in your hearts.

As far as the Caruso girls, the Rossi clan and all of the "girls"... It was wonderful to see you again, it was easy to be with you. All of you were an important part of my life, and I'm looking forward to the day when we will see eachother again. Perhaps to celebrate the life of Karen Ann Rossi same time next year. Let's all keep in touch.

God's Speed to all.

Love....
carole a. martorana <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
ft. lauderdale, fl usa - Wednesday, March 29, 2006 4:52 PM CST

Dear Steve,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I love you guys and I loved Karen and all the times we shared together. Karen was an angel on earth sent here to look after everyone she loved, and she loved a lot of people. Even more than that, everyone loved her. She made everyone she was with feel special and believe that their dreams could come true. 7 degrees of separation from Karen. Karen knew everyone and would introduce them all to you - then the world didn't seem like such a big place. There's a piece of us all missing now and the world seems a little bit colder.
I haven't kept in touch as much as I should have - I'm feeling that deeply right now. I'm praying for you all - your loss is unimaginable. If there is anything I can do, and with all my heart I wish there was, please don't hesitate to ask. You were like a brother to me and we've shared much. I would speak of such things one day, if you'd like, but until then God bless you and the girls. I know Karen is already rearranging the Heavens to make them a better place.

Love and peace always,
Michael and Lisa Nappi

Michael Nappi <mnappi310@yahoo.com>
Larchmont, NY USA - Wednesday, March 29, 2006 3:36 PM CST

I DID'NT KNOW KAREN BUT IN A WAY I KNEW HER THUE LORRAINE ROSSI THE WOMEN I TAKE CARE OF.LORRAINE LOVED KAREN,STEVE AND THIER DAUGHTERS,SABRINA AND SAMANTHA,SHE NEVER STOPPED TALKING ABOUT THEM.I POUR MY HEART OUT TO ALL THAT LOVED AND KNEW HER ESPECIALLY HER BELOVED SABRINA AND SAMANTHA AND OF COURSE HER BELOVED HUSBAND. I WILL PRAY SO HARD FOR ALL OF YOU
MADELINE GALLAGHER <madfeline@optonline.net>
HOPEWELL JCT, new york usa - Wednesday, March 29, 2006 9:15 AM CST

Karen's Family: I get so sad when I come to your site--sad and selfish, because I did not know this amazing wife, daughter, mother, sister, sister-in-law and friend you call Karen.

I know the loss you feel is deep and her life touched so many. May God's hand gently wipe your tears and grant you the peace you so deserve. I am praying for you all.

With love,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 10:39 PM CST

I really don't know where to begin. When I arrived home yesterday I felt as if I'd been away for a much longer time than just two weeks. Lisa and I constantly talk about Karen, and how much we miss her, and her phone calls too. As I sat by my pool today, I remembered a night with Deanie, Suzy, Lisa, Lorraine,and Karen. As we sat by the pool Deanie played the guitar, and sang to Karen. It's memories like these that I will always remember, along with my business trip to Nashville in 2004, when Karen and Dalette showed me how to party.

Karens hard fought battle with Cancer brought people together from across the country. Some were old friends, that had not seen each other in years, and others were people that had never met. I have never seen such devoted, loyal friends. That is a rare thing in this day and age.

I know this may sound selfish, but because of Karen I have extended my family. Eric & Stephanie, Susie, Kathy & Steve, "Keep it real" Kim & Ely, L.A.-Mike & Laura, and Robin. I could go on and on, but I will say that I'm disappointed that I did not get to meet Johnny B. I believe that this is what would make Karen happy, bringing people together.

For several days after Karen left us, we celebrated her life, in a fashion that I'm sure made her smile. I believe between Friday and Sunday I only got a total of three hours of sleep, and I know that she had a good laugh as she watched Eric, L.A.-Mike, Clint, and I saluting her at The Ranch Saloon.

As returned to my life today, and cut the grass, I listened to Karens music while I worked. What a beautiful song Eternal Love is, it brought tears to my eyes.

The world is a lesser place with out you sister-inlaw, I will miss your calming voice, and the sarcastic remarks that we shared. I am thankful for the time I had with you. I love you.

I thought these lyrics should be on this site, so here they are. To Steve, Sam, and Bean. I love you guys.

When your life gets too lonely
It might help to feel me in your heart
I remember you happy, but thought it
Unfair that we are apart
And it's gonna be all right
'Cause everlasting love
Will get us through the night
There's a new day that's dawning
It brings with it skies so blue and clear
I can't offer you blue skies
I've only got love, eternal love
Soon it's gonna be all right
And the day will come
When we live as one
Drifting through time on an ocean of eternal love
Sailing through space on an ocean of eternal love
Doesn't love have a meaning
To put that in words would be so hard
Just remember the feeling of love in a song
That's a love for real
And it's gonna be all right
'Cause everlasting love
Will get us through the night

Rob Fonteyn <rfonteyn@cityof psl.com>
- Tuesday, March 28, 2006 8:46 PM CST

Dear Karen,

I cannot believe what a crazy year this has been, as I sit back at home I wonder how we will all survive without that distinct voice that beautiful snaggle tooth and our updates on the Hollywood stars. I first want to thank your sister Lisa for getting in touch with me and Steve, even though we hadn't talked in a few years it took about 1 second to get back to the way things were before we lost touch. Lisa was my touchstone through this crazy year and I know we will stay friends forever, even with Rob (Jake) too. It was so surreal to sit with you in the hospital with Robin and Kim, I felt I should have had on a pair of leggings and a hand painted t-shirt. I'm so glad I had the privelage of getting to know your sissy's from Tennnesee and Alabama talk about southern hospitality. And your brother and sister in-law Eric (Heath) and Stephanie were as you would say AMAZING. Your other sister in-law Karen was our Zen master and spell checker we will miss those lists. And the other part of the 3 Musketeers, Suzie what can I say I'm glad the 3 of us were with our girl her last night on this earth. The rest of the Caruso Clan were so strong and supportive and I will always feel a part of your family. Also, thanks to Chrissy who kept the cell phone company in business when she was in Tennessee. Most of all to my husband Steve, who was the one that introduced me to you and I know your Mom thinks I put the kabbash on you being our best man at our wedding, but I still say it was his Mom. And when you came to visit over the New Year you asked Steve and I to keep an eye on your girls, well the Sasloe Boys are fighting over that job.

I just wanted Steve, Sam & Bean to know how much we hurt for them but will always be here when they need us.

Karen,

Think of me
You know that I'd be with you if I could
I'll come around to see you once in a while
Or if I ever need a reason to smile
And spend the night if you think I should

Love you forever,
Kathy Sasloe
Kathy Sasloe <mskathy75@hotmail.com>
Norwalk, CT USA - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 11:02 AM CST

Steve,Samantha,Sabrina
I am so sorry and saddened by your loss. I havent seen your mom in many years, but she was always in my thoughts and prayers. She was a very special friend and person. She will be greatly missed. May God bless you all.

All My Love,
Carol

Carol-lynn Canovan Kempton <jkempton@tampabay.rr.com>
New Port Richey, Fl - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 9:58 AM CST

I learned of your site from the Lanius and Martin sites. I can tell from the picture that Karen was full of love and laughter. Prayers and thoughts are coming to you from Tompkinsville, Kentucky during this difficult time.
God Bless you all!
Charolette <carnett@uky.edu>
Tompkinsville, Ky USA - Monday, March 27, 2006 3:14 PM CST

Dearest Karen, Steve, daughters and family + friends-

My heart is heavy today after hearing about the sad turn of events. It would certainly have been my purpose to visit during Karen's period of illness and attend the memorial service on Saturday, had only I known sooner. Have just spoken with Robin who told me of the wonderful outpouring of love and respect for our dear Karen.

I must echo the heartfelt sentiments of all those who have posted before to this site. Karen was a dear, sweet, warm, loving, outgoing, smart and beautiful woman with a sharp sense of humor to boot. The memories of the days in upstate New York and the Todd/Utopia concerts with Karen and her "pack of ladies" (yeah, there were some guys, too...) in entourage will always fill my heart.

One shining memory is that of Karen and Steve getting married on our front lawn in Rhinebeck, NY. When it turned out there was not an adequate plan for the reception -- because many more people turned up than expected! -- we hastily turned to our friends at the Beekman Arms who weclomed the big lot of us and instantly put together quite a nice reception. From as much as I can recall from the day (the wine was flowing...), it was quite a party and fitting tribute to the new couple.

Although separated by time and distance, I have always still felt extremely close to you, Karen and Steve. Happy to find that the little girls I saw during their early childhood have grown up into wonderful women. This is no doubt the outcome of having such a super Mom and Dad. My partner, Diane, lost her Mom to cancer, and we are reminded of the lessons of life, love and the value of deep friendship at this time.

Our thoughts are with you during your difficult loss. We will continue in celebrating Karen's life by living our own to the best of our abilities, and by keeping her forever in our hearts and minds.

With love always, missing you Karen!
Roger Powell
- Monday, March 27, 2006 2:28 PM CST

As a few of you know I had an experience after karen had past. I wasn't able to talk to Karen right before she went to heaven and It really bothered me. I just wanted to tell her how much I loved her. Toni eased my mind and told me that karen had told her how glad she was that her and I spoke and that she loved me. That was all I needed to hear. Thank You Toni. Anyway for those of you I didn't tell. After I heard about Karen I left work and as I was driving home I was looking up to the Heaven's talking to my precious telling her even though I didn't get a chance to say good-bye in person I'm saying good-bye now and as that came out of my mouth a car driving right next to me driving the same speed I looked over and the there was a sign that said KAREN In big letters. I looked at the sky and back at the car. KAREN. I looked at the sky again and back at the car. KAREN. The car started to pass me and I read the rest of the sign. It read K A R E N your realestate agent for life. And at that moment this warm feeling and goosebumps came all over me. I new It was Karen saying Good-bye to me too. I drove home at midnight Saturday night when I got home I was going through my mail crying I had been crying since I reached Port St. Lucie When I saw what was on my desk I nearly fainted. As some of you know. I worked for Hospice for many years and on my desk was a Psalm for the Dying that I had Saved all these years It is very touching. The only thing I could make of this was that if Karen could speak from the Heaven's this is what she would say and I feel like she wanted me to relay this message to everyone in her life. So hear goes.

RELATIVES AND FRIENDS, I AM ABOUT TO LEAVE;
MY LAST BREATH DOES NOT SAY "GOODBYE",
FOR MY LOVE FOR YOU IS TRULY TIMELESS,
BEYOND THE TOUCH OF BONEY DEATH.
I LEAVE MYSELF NOT TO THE UNDERTAKER,
FOR DECORATION IN HIS HOUSE OF THE DEAD,
BUT TO YOUR MEMORY, WITH LOVE.
I LEAVE MY THOUGHTS, MY LAUGHTER, MY DREAMS
TO YOU WHOM I HAVE TREASURED
BEYOND GOLD AND PRECIOUS GEMS.
I GIVE YOU WHAT NO THIEF CAN STEAL,
THE MEMORIES OF OUR TIMES TOGETHER;
THE TENDER, LOVE-FILLED MOMENTS,
THE SUCCESSES WE HAVE SHARED,
THE HARD TIMES THAT BROUGHT US CLOSER TOGETHER
AND THE ROADS WE HAVE WALKED SIDE BY SIDE.
I ALSO LEAVE YOU A SOLEMN PROMISE
THAT AFTER I AM HOME IN THE BOSOM OF GOD,
I WILL STILL BE PRESENT,
WHENEVER AND WHEREVER YOU CALL ON ME.
MY ENERGY WILL BE DRAWN TO YOU
BY THE MAGNET OF OUR LOVE.
WHENEVER YOU ARE IN NEED, CALL ME.
I WILL COME TO YOU,
WITH MY ARMS FULL OF WISDOM AND LIGHT,
TO OPEN UP YOUR BLOCKED PATHS,
TO UNTANGLE YOUR KNOTS
AND TO BE YOUR AVENUE TO GOD.
AND ALL I TAKE WITH ME AS I LEAVE
IS YOUR LOVE AND THE MILLIONS OF MEMORIES
OF ALL THAT WE HAVE SHARED.
SO I TRULY ENTER MY NEW LIFE
AS A MILLIONAIRE.
FEAR NOT NOR GRIEVE AT MY DEPARTURE.
YOU WHOM I HAVE LOVED SO MUCH,
FOR MY ROOTS AND YOURS
ARE FOREVER INTERTWINED.

LOVE,
KAREN

Karen, I will be here for you whenever you call on me. I will love you until my death. and look foward to seeing you again. I love you with all of my heart.

TTFN (Ta Ta for now).

love,
Jules

Julie Rizzetta <julesrizz@aol.com>
Deerfield Beach, Fl - Monday, March 27, 2006 1:40 PM CST

Dear Karen, I haven't written in a long time, I haven't needed to. I wish I could have more time, I wish you could have had more time. I looked at your daughters this weekend and thought what amazing young women they are. I hope you know what a wonderful job you and Steve did with them. Your service was inspiring...it was everything you would have wanted. A celebration of your amazing life. I miss you more than I can ever put into words. I hope you see how many lives you touched, I hope you felt the outpouring of love that traveled across the country to be with you on your final days. You were too good for this world...you are in a better place. I believe that. I love you.
Your sister, Lisa <lisarobfont@bellsouth.net>
- Monday, March 27, 2006 1:27 PM CST

Kar,
I write this to your attention because I expect you to see it. Saturday was electrifying from what I am told. I shouldn't expect anything less. Everyone was asking Robin upon her return from Nashville, "How did it go?" She just looks at them, somewhat bewildered, still trying to figure it out, and says "It was the most amazing thing I've ever experienced!" Again you bring us all together, and together we will stay. Only you Karen, only you...

Love always,
Johnny B
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Monday, March 27, 2006 12:32 AM CST

Karen lives on in all of us! Even if we take with us one of her qualities; it is with tremendous pride. If we feel this way; just think of how Proud God is of her life! He says "JOB WELL DONE; ABOVE AND BEYOND MY DAUGHTER". I talk to her everyday, and know that she is with us all! I feel her around me! Rossi's and Caruso's; know that I'm always here if you need me! All My Love and Devotion! We are all BLESSED to have had Karen in our lives!
Always,
Chrissy
CHRISSY LEBLANC <angellface58@hotmail.com>
BETHEL, CT USA - Monday, March 27, 2006 7:11 AM CST

karen-today was beautifulll! i bet your proud. you are already missed and forever loved!
i love youu! :)
casey callis <callis1027@yahoo.com>
hville, tn - Saturday, March 25, 2006 11:19 PM CST

I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. What a great loss. She had such an amazing spirit. She touched the hearts and minds of all she met with compassion, humor, and acceptance. Honor her by living your life to the fullest, just as she did.
Diane Kostalis <Kostalis MT@mfr.usmc.mil>
Bethlehem, PA - Saturday, March 25, 2006 8:33 PM CST

Sabrina and Samantha, You don't know me but I worked with your mom. Karen was diagnosed with cancer while I was in Texas taking care of my mother, as she was loosing her battle to this disease. Your mom was a true blessing to everyones life she touched. The next months, and years, will be filled with questions and times of grief. You are so fortunate to have this "journal" of sweet message from your moms friends and family. I pray you find comfort in the words written here, and remember that your mom loved you and was so proud of you both. I gave your mom a braclet early last year that had engraved on it "One Day at a Time". I have had to use that message as well in dealing with the loss of my mother. I will miss your mothers laughter and smile. She was only in my life a brief time, but left a lasting thumbprint in my heart. God bless you.
Robin Lyons <robinrl@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Saturday, March 25, 2006 7:22 PM CST

Thinking of you on this difficult day. I've been to Calvary Chapel before, have heard Jerry speak, and from everything I've read about amazing Karen, I'm sure her service was a beautiful tribute to a life well lived and a battle courageously fought.

You're in my prayers as you face the days ahead,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Saturday, March 25, 2006 5:06 PM CST

I only met Karen a few times. But, I will never forget her. Please feel comfort in knowing that she is in a beautiful place and is busy making friends there. I am so sad for all her family and friends. I love you Lisa, Lorraine, Meghan, and Rob.
Katie.
Katie Alonzo <alonzo@stlucieco.gov>
Port St. Lucie, FL - Saturday, March 25, 2006 12:59 AM CST

Thoughts of Karen will always be accompanied with a warm smile and a hardy laugh. God Bless all of you , Marni
Marni Spain Connelly <Bconn9@sbcglobal.net>
Bethel, Ct USA - Saturday, March 25, 2006 12:22 AM CST

TO Karen In Flight

You glide the air
And sail the seas
To our Father's Sun.

Your wings are tipped
in a glistening light;
Your sails billow
Towards the Bright.

Sail, Fly to the surrounding Love,
Pause and glow in this Special Place;
Embraced by warmth, you have found "your Space."

Whether you are in the sea of Peace
or in the air of Calm
Remember to fill the sails
of those left behind
Who sail the seas,
Glide the air of memories.

And God Bless-
Fill our Sails- souls,
Calm the seas- breeze,
Until we sail- glide
to Thee.

Steve, Sabrina, Samantha,
Your beloved Karen(Mom) will be sorely missed. She was loved and adored by so many people-most importantly all of YOU and the rest of your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. The poem was written by my dearest friend and soulmate, Lynn Clark, who departed almost 5 years ago. She wrote it for her friend Lloyd who died at a young age. I, now pass it along to you for our Beloved Karen.
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Saturday, March 25, 2006 8:51 AM CST

Mantha and Bean please call if you need ANYTHING!!! I never met your mom but know she must have been wonderful because she raised to beautiful and loving girls. (and she liked Clint). God Bless and Keep You during this heartbreaking time.
Sondra <Pparkpl@aol.com>
Gallatin, TN USA - Friday, March 24, 2006 7:51 PM CST

i LOVE you karennnn!!!
Casey <callis1027@yahoo.com>
hville, TN - Friday, March 24, 2006 5:05 PM CST

Samantha, Sabrina, let me know if there is anything I can do to help you. You and your family are in my prayers, and I am here if you need me. Your Mom changed everyone's life she touched.
With love,
Jimsey
Jimsey Bailey <jimsey2@yahoo.com>
Birmingham, AL USA - Friday, March 24, 2006 2:50 PM CST

Oh Karen!! Off to Neverland, that's where you've gone, I'm sure of it! God bless you...and those beautiful girls of yours...your husband, family and friends. They will all be in my prayers.
Ellisia Jesnes <ejesnes@hotmail.com>
Savannah, GA - Friday, March 24, 2006 12:54 AM CST

Karen,we all have so many special memories of good times with you.You were a very special person and friend to me thanks for being you.God bless you and your family.

Glenn
Glenn Wagner <Gwagner@hytape.com>
Brookfield, CT usa - Friday, March 24, 2006 10:53 AM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,

I am pausing here once again to let you know that a stranger, from Team Tracy, cares about Karen and about all of you. You will be in my prayers today and tomorrow.

God bless you all!

Grace and peace,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Friday, March 24, 2006 9:55 AM CST

Dear Rossi and Caruso Family,
Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are so very sorry and saddened by your loss. I hope that you can find comfort and peace and the difficult days and weeks ahead. Although my family did not know Karen personally, I have however come to know her thru her journal. What a wonderful person she was in life and how loved by everyone she was. I am SURE that she is at peace in heaven watching over everyone. May GOD hold you all in his loving arms! George, Donna, Christopher and Olivia Fonteyn.
Donna Fonteyn <deefonteyn@sbcglobal.net>
Wallingford, CT - Friday, March 24, 2006 6:33 AM CST

Karen, this is from me to you, I don't know where to begin, so here goes, from the first day I met you I knew we would be best friends for life. You are one of the most caring and understanding ladies I know (just like me) you made me laugh, you let me "vent" whenever I needed an ear, and your sholder to cry on when I needed it. Remember my birthday WOW!! I will never forget it, that was one of the best birthday's I ever had, and you lady I can never say thankyou enough. I smile everytime I think about those 2 guys who hit on us and bought us those drinks you're such a hottie (even with the "wig". I loved the weekend we just spent up at the condo with your girlfriends even though your lazy ass wouldn't get out of bed, so we out and brought you back lunch. Karen it doesn't even feel like your gone, i'm still waiting for u to come back to Florida, you promised to go to NewYork with me remember, well I'll be here waiting ok. I love u and I'll see u tomorrow can u believe it I'm actually coming to Tennesse to see u. Love Always Tonya "sweetie"
Tonya Teixeira
Coral Springs, FL USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 11:45 PM CST

Rossi family: I was going to post the words to "When I Get Where I'm Goin" and I see someone else had the same thought. They are beautiful words and I hope they bring some comfort to you, imagining Karen in heaven--in no pain, with her dad....

I know there aren't many things to comfort you right now, but I hope you let yourselves feel the love being sent your way from your many friends--and friends like me you've not met yet.

You've been on my heart and in my mind all day today. May peace be yours...

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 10:18 PM CST

Dear Steve, Samantha and Sabrina, I loved your mom so much. I have never met someone with so much spirit. If ever there was a person worthy of the peace, love, forgiveness and grace that Jesus taught it was Karen. My prayers with you forever,
Kent
kent Balch <email@kentbalch.com>
Atlanta, Ga USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 8:45 PM CST

Steve, Sam and Bean,

I just heard about Karens passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the girls. Karen was such a wonderful friend. And even though we had not seen each other in some time, she was always in my thoughts. She will be dearly missed. She is in a wonderful place, where there is no pain and no sorrow. May God be with you in this time of saddness and help you find faith and strength to help each other heal.

All my love,
Liz
Liz Martin <tnhummingbird65@yahoo.com>
Hendersonville, TN - Thursday, March 23, 2006 6:10 PM CST

Dear Steve,
sending wishes across the miles that love will fill your heart and peace will fill your soul and faith will give you strength during this time. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your girls. I am sad for you and so sorry for your loss. I know that Karen's spirit will live forever in the hearts of many. God Bless you. Love, Lauri
Lauri Kornhaas
Carnation , WA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 4:25 PM CST

Steve and family I am So very sorry to get this news! I'm sitting here crying and thinking about how Karen was always so nice, patient and cool with me .She helped me thru some weird times many years ago and I have much respect for her.

Much love and peace to your family, I know the pain of loss all too well and my heart goes out to you all...

Peace and Love,
Mason

mason casey <masoncaseymusic@yahoo.com>
santa monica, ca us - Thursday, March 23, 2006 3:17 PM CST

Steve Rossi and family,
My sympathies and prayers are with you and
all of your family, I am extremely sad today
and I believe heaven has received an angel
with a beautiful smile.
Love you always Karen.
Bari Brown <barilbrown@earthlink.net>
Rutherford, NJ - Thursday, March 23, 2006 11:09 AM CST

When I get where I'm going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly

I'm gonna land beside a lion
And run my fingers through his mane
Or I might find out what it's like
To ride a drop of rain

Yeah when I get where I'm goin
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here

I'm gonna walk with my grand daddy
And he'll match me step for step
And I'll tell him how I missed him
Every minute since he left
Then I'll hug his neck

Yeah when I get where I'm goin
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here

So much pain and so much darkness
In this world we stumble through
All these questions I can't answer
So much work to do

But when I get where I'm going
And I see my maker's face
I'll stand forever in the light
Of his amazing grace
Yeah when I get where I'm goin
Oh When I get where I'm goin
There'll be only happy tears
Hallelujah
I will love and have no fear
When I get where I'm going
Yeah when I get where I'm going

anonymous <anonymous@ heartfelt.com>
- Thursday, March 23, 2006 10:44 AM CST

I was led here through Kevin Martin's site. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, etc. She does have a beautiful smile. How blessed she was to have such a wonderful family and support system. I'm sure she can rest peacefully knowing that her beloved daughters will be well taken care of. It seems that she loved deeply and was loved deeply in return. My prayers for peace and comfort for all of you. She'll live on in each of you through your wonderful memories. Honor her by living life to the fullest.
Lisa Kingsbury <dldarakingsbury@msn.com>
Sandy, UT - Thursday, March 23, 2006 10:40 AM CST

Dear Steve, Samantha and Sabrina,

I woke up this morning thinking of you three, just as I went to bed last night with Karen and you all on my mind. I hope that you were able to get some rest last night and praying that peace will comfort you in your slumber. If I were there I would even sing you all a lullaby like I sing to Emma, (okay, you would probably appreciate it more if I only hummed it).

There really are no words that I could say that could be of much comfort to your pain but I hope that in the coming days and beyond that the love of all your friends and family will help you walk through this. We are all here to hold your hand. And when the pain seems unbearable, please remember that God is carrying you in the palm of his hand. And when the wind blows ever so softly you will feel her presence and in every laugh and smile and flower or beautiful sunny day you will always feel her around you. We all love you and miss Karen so much.

We love and miss you all.
God Bless you Steve, Sam and Bean.
God Bless the Caruso Family and the Rossi Family.
Love
Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky

Tammi Mike and Emma Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
SEATTLE, WA United States - Thursday, March 23, 2006 10:38 AM CST

Dear Caruso/Rossi Family,

I was here yesterday, for the first time. I am a regular signer of the books of Tracy Lanius and Kevin Martin, two men, who have recently died of colon cancer. I have viewed Karen's pictures and read some of her story. I want to say that she was a remarkable woman: a beautiful wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, cousin, and so much more. May she rest in peace!

Although I do not have a background with you, as I did with the Lanius and Martin families, from signing Tracy and Kevin's books, while both men were alive, my thoughts and prayers will be with you during the next few days.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Thursday, March 23, 2006 9:42 AM CST

My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God wrap his loving arms around you so you can feel his comfort and strength. I came from Kevin Martin's site.
God's blessings to you all
Marjie <jmr@mahaska.org>
Oskaloosa, IA USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 9:36 AM CST

I will miss u so much aunt karen u were my fav aunt u all most got me a cell phone. LOL i am soooo sad that i cant even go to school today cause i well start cryin will i am in class! U were so much fun and funny and kid and u loved eveyone! I hope u r happy in heaven i will see u sometime again!!
Love ur gurly SHAUNA KOHLER <Littlemisy303@aol.com>
Danburry, Ct connetitcut - Thursday, March 23, 2006 9:27 AM CST

I AM SO SAD!! I still can't believe she is gone. Although I only knew her for three short years and have not seen her for five, Karen was always in my mind and I talked about her often to friends and family: I'll never forget when Karen organized my baby shower at a Chinese restauant and then when I swelled up like a balloon from all the MSGs, she was the first one to visit me in hospital cracking jokes and teasing me rotten about my elephant ankles!I could always rely on her to cheer me up and she was so supportive of me with both my real estate and music apirations - she even talked Steve into recording my band for free!! Thanks Steve - my thoughts are with you and your beautiful girls. Samantha and Sabrina - my heart is breaking for your loss.

I have been thinking a lot about why Karen had to die this way but last night at about three in the morning I suddenly had a thought that comforted me. I read somewhere once that before we are born we get to choose our parents, our station in life and ultimately how we die - please understand I am not saying that Karen would have chosen to leave her family so early or to have suffered so greatly but in a way, through this website, her death has her trademark personality written all over it. Karen was the greatest social secretary I have ever met - she was so good at bringing people together - making then connect - filling them with hope - every day was a party or a celebration when she was around - I'd like to think that she is smiling down on us all, with a drink in her hand, relaxing after having organized the greatest coming together of people I have ever had the privilege to witness. I am so proud of you Karen!! You are truly one of my heroes and this lil English girl will always miss you!
Rebecca Walker-Jones <rwj9@bellsouth.net>
Fayetteville, GA 30215 - Thursday, March 23, 2006 8:29 AM CST

I'm so sorry about your loss. Prayers being said. Sent from Kevin Martin's website.
tricia <triciabxny@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, March 23, 2006 8:23 AM CST

karen will always live on in our hearts... especially for being the "coolest mom" on the block. i will never forget how she welcomed me into her house and make me feel like i was at home as soon as i stepped in the door. god bless
CHRISTIE ROTH <FLIRTCR98@AOL.COM>
HENDERSONVILLE, TN UNITED STATES - Thursday, March 23, 2006 8:22 AM CST

I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL PERSON. REST IN PEACE.
AUNT JOHANNA <BETTYSBOOP623@NETZERO.COM>
HARTSDALE, NY USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 8:06 AM CST

Steve .................... Love You. Hang tight see you soon. Mike
Michael Austin Canovan <mcanovan@netzero.com>
New Port Richey, FL U S A - Thursday, March 23, 2006 7:37 AM CST

A LETTER FROM
HEAVEN

"To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every
morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

"It's good to have you back again, you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do,
and foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you... in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years,
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too....
That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night... "My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented.... that my life has been wothwhile,
Knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
Just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in you footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.... you're coming here to me
D
O - Thursday, March 23, 2006 7:18 AM CST

You're in my thoughts and prayers!
Leigh Ghorley <lefthandtwin@alltel.net>
White, Ga USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 6:43 AM CST

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to your family. We too know the pain of losing someone to this. Below is a poem that you might like to read.

When Tomorrow Starts Without Me

When tomorrow starts without me and I’m not here to see
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry the way you did today;
While thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say;
I know how much you love me as much as I love you.
And each time you think of me I know you’ll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand
And said my place was ready in heaven far above.
And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I’d always thought I didn’t want to die.
I had so much to live for, and so much yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, I thought for just awhile,
I’d say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized that this could never be
For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things that I’d miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through “Heaven’s Gate” I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled from his “Great Golden Throne.”
He said, “This is eternity and all I have promised you.
Today your life on Earth has passed, but here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrows but today will always last
And since each day’s the same day: there’s no longing for the past.
But though I promise no tomorrows on Earth to anyone,
So many live each day so sure of seeing one more sun.
Yet each one knows that I will call and no one knows just when.
But they never stop to pray and ask forgiveness for their sin.
And many I have turned away so sad at heaven’s gate.
For when I called they weren’t prepared and it was much to late.
But you have so faithful, so trusting, and so true.
Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn’t do.
But you have been forgiven and now at last you’re free.
So won’t you come and take my hand and share my life with me....”
So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart!
For every time you think of me I’m right here in your heart.
Coblentz Family <Fairlite88@aol.com>
Sarasota, FL USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 5:42 AM CST

I too come here via the Martin 7's. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this trying time. May you use God as your strength to make it through the long days and nights.

Cathy
Cathy Gee <geex3@earthlink.net>
Danville, Va USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 11:00 PM CST

My deepest sympathy to all of Karen's friends and family. I am here for the first time via the Martin 7 page. I've read all the journal entries over the last year just tonight. I wish I could have known Karen--she sounds amazing, as I'm sure those who knew her will attest to.

My brother just went through a similar situation as Karen's and he left our arms on March 11. To Karen's siblings, I have no advice as I'm too new at this. Just keep your arms open for those who want to love you, your hands open for those who want to hold you, and your heart open for our loving God to heal you and grant you peace.

I'll be praying for Karen's husband and children--for all of you who loved her so, and will be keeping you close in heart in the days and weeks ahead.

Peace to you all,

Kriste Lanius
My Big Brother - Tracy Lanius <Kristewithane@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:49 PM CST

Dear Steve,Samantha,Sabrina: I pray that God will give you the strength you need to get through this incredibly difficult time. Karen has left a tremendous legacy. God bless you and the entire Rossi/Caruso families.
Michele Martorana Armiento <MNZMOM@comcast.net>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:33 PM CST

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you in this time of grief and sorrow. May God's Love be close to your hearts as you let Karen rest in His arms.

Becky Lane, Deanie's Aunt <nursbeck@comcast.net>
Kingston Springs, TN US - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:31 PM CST

To Karen's Family
I told someone today how Karen could always out dance me when we had been out together. They asked me how old she was and I couldn't say. I always joked with her telling her how she was almost old enough to be my mother just to aggravate her. I truly don't know her age nor do I care. Karen will always be timeless to me. Almost 10 years ago she was wearing me out trying to keep up with her on the dance floor and tonight I can see her dancing in heaven. She is missed tonight and I hope you know how she has touched so many. Sam & Bean, you have that special spark that your sweet mother had and always know... that I see it in you.
My heart and my family's heart shares the excitement in seeing her in heaven. God bless and sleep tight tonight, for she is at peace and she is now watching over all of us.

Praying for and loving your sweet family,
Kara

Kara Lockhart <nathanhenry2002@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:11 PM CST

Dear Caruso/Rossi Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. My heart goes out to all the family members and friends...Everyone has such great memories and stories they've shared. She touched so many lives... A truly great loss to all of us. You will be missed so much...Love you Karen...
Lauren Hansen <lorlorleather@aol.com>
Danbury, CT USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:22 PM CST

steve, sam, and sabrina....i send you my love. believe it or not, there's a little left over from the love i feel for your wife and mother. debbie and toni and lisa, and frank... i can't begin to tell you how much i feel for you. lorraine.... there's a lot of folks who loved your daughter... i thnk you know where i stand amongst them; i send you my sweetest hug! eric and lisa thank you for the updates on our sweet girl... i probably would have lost my mind with out them. thank you from the bottom of my heart. toni... to you i send my special thoughts. you and karen made me feel like i was king.... of the whole universe!! how do i begin to tell you how much that means to me. i will always remember... always toni !!! karen is the reason why i have had a 28 year friendship with dave chmela. there's a few more miles between us now but we are still quite close. the hundreds of nights that i kicked the biggest ass on that light board of mine, i dedicate to you, caruso, kc, scarlett!!! finally to steve sasloe and robin butillo... i will never forget the generosity of your time and phone calls to me during the last year, (and today, steve)it means a lot... a real lot.
today karen is at peace, and the world is a little less. we are a little more for having been with her. although my heart is breaking, breaking , breaking, i am happy for you dear... you are released. 7 rays , baby... 7 rays!
sincerely,
russell
russell gambino <russg13@aol.com>
clayton, nc - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:24 PM CST

Till we see you again...
Pam Redden <jredden@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:04 PM CST

I've come to your web page through Linda Martin. Rest in peace Karen! God bless the family and give you strength during this time. You're in my prayera.
Penny
MS - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 7:59 PM CST

Karen-
The world just won't be the same without you. I've sat down to write this message several times trying not to sound cliche. What are the right words? We were all better people for knowing you. No matter how much time had passed, we always picked up where we left off. You were like that, so easy to be around, that great laugh of yours. I know we'll see each-other again, I know it in my heart. You're presence will be felt by all who knew you. Where-ever you are now, where ever heaven is, hear this / know this-I will always love you
Laurie
Laurie Rubenstein <jamproductions2000@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles , CA USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 7:37 PM CST

Steve, Sam and Bean, Our hearts are so heavy, yet so blessed to have shared so many special moments with Karen and your whole family. We cherish them always. Sending much love, Teresa and Fav, Briana, Tonio and Brian
Teresa Arena <MamaT202@aol.com>
Fort Myers , FL USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:44 PM CST

OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH STEVE, SAMANTHA AND SABRINA. KAREN WAS A SPECIAL WOMEN; SHE LOVED OUR CHRISSY LIKE A SISTER. SHE WAS BLESSED TO HAVE HER IN HER LIFE. SHE IS AT PEACE NOW. GOD BE WITH YOU ALL!
SINCERELY,
JOHN AND ROSE RUBINO (CHRISSY'S MOM & DAD)
JOHN & ROSE RUBINO
BETHEL, CT - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:26 PM CST

"Time it was and what a time it was. a time of innocence a time of confidences. Long ago it must be I have a photograph, Preserve your momories they're all thats left you." Bookends Paul Simon.What a sad day for us! My brother Dave and I shared some great memories of Karen. The most special was her wonderfully beautiful smile! My thoughts are with you all! God bless!
Nancy <nmarca@aol.com>
Sandy Hook, CT usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:16 PM CST

Steve and Family:

This is a poem that I wrote when Tina's father was at the end of his long struggle. My belief in God and how precious every little thing is...prompted me to write it. I send it with my love.

geoffrey and cole nelson

Nothing else.

A breath now.

Feel.

The warmth of the inhale.

The air as it eases past the nostrils.

It’s a comfort really…the rise of your chest I mean.

Reassuring. Dependable. Conscientious.

It’s a wonder when you think about it…

Mostly because it’s rarely thought of.

Air. Coaxed into service.

Filling. Satisfying. Providing.

Then exiting quietly and humbly…without want of reward or notice.

Now. Another breath.

This one, under the spotlight and scrutiny…

…is simply…sublime.

As it should be. As it was meant to be.

Finally the struggle…is excused.

If only it had been dismissed long ago.

To embrace the glory of simple

To not duck the chance to meet acceptance

To be willing to put pride on the $1 table at the garage sale.

Breathing out now.

Simple. Satisfying. Enough.

As it should be. As it was meant to be.

You think…

This is good.

I like the passenger seat.

What the hell…

I was never really driving anyway.

Geoff <geoff@hippieboy.tv>
Sherman Oaks, Ca - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 5:54 PM CST

May God bless you all during this very sorrow-filled time. May he give you the strength to go on and the comfort of knowing that Karen is in a much better place. I've been directed here via the Martin 7 website.
Robin Runner
Lititz, PA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 5:49 PM CST

My Prayers go out to the Family and Friends of Karen. May God be with you in the Days ahead. Love to you all, Sharon McDowell, Deanie's Mom.
Sharon McDowell <sharonmimi0704@bellsouth.net>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 5:34 PM CST

Dear Steve & family, I am so very, very sorry for your loss. There are no words... I just wanted to say that my heart is breaking for you at this extremely difficult time and I am keeping you in my thoughts & prayers.
With big hugs & sympathy,
Jennifer
Jennifer Drake <jennifer.l.drake@abc.com>
Los Angeles, CA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 5:32 PM CST

Dear Steve, Samantha, Sabrina, and All,

I came here from Kevin Martin's guest book to wish Karen well during her final days of life, not realizing that she passed earlier today. May the grace of God, shown in the priest, with you, as she passed, care for Karen in the closer presence of our Lord. May that same grace give all of Karen's loved ones strength and peace, during the visitation and funeral.

From the picture on the home page, Karen was a beautiful woman. May she be at peace.

God bless you all!

Grace, peace, love, and all good,

~Colette~
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 5:19 PM CST

You will be in my heart and soul forever. To a wonderful mother and a great friend you will be missed.

I love you.
Robin <lowatha@aol.com>
gallatin, - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:56 PM CST

my deepest sorrows to the rossi and caruso family.karen in
life you got us all together and as an angel you still keep
us together.
love susan
susan kelly <susansuede@aol.com>
danbury, ct fairfield - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:30 PM CST

Dear Angel,
Our love for you will live forever in our hearts and minds. Thank you my friend for all the love and laughter you brought to our lives and so many others. You are a true blue. A forever friend.

Dearest Steve, Samantha and Sabrina,
I wish we could be there with you at this sad time. Our hearts are so heavy with sadness there are truly no words to convey our loss, especially yours. We love you all and we are here for you. We pray that in all your grief that God's grace will comfort you and envelop you with all the beautiful memories Karen has given each of us and know that her life was one that shined so brightly for so many people and made our lives more full. That smile she is so famous for will forever be etched in our minds and warm our hearts always.

We love you all and continue to keep you and your families in our prayers.
Love
Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky
Tammi, Mike and Emma Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:25 PM CST

Our thoughts are with you...
Heaven has another angel.

Lisa and Bill
Lisa and Bill Gagnon <LisaMHG@aol.com>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:02 PM CST

Steve I am so sorry I think of you and Karen often
my prayers are with you.
with all my love
Dave Rogers
Dave Rogers <drogers347@aol.com>
Sherman, CT USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 3:35 PM CST

Steve I am so sorry I think of you and Karen often my thoughts are with you.
love Dave Rogers
Dave Rogers <drogers347@aol.com>
Sherman, CT Usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 3:14 PM CST

My deepest sympathy to Steve and the girls. Jesus is waiting for Karen to welcome her home and congratulate her on a life well lived and loved. Gods Peace and love be with all of you Sally
Sally Kaler-RE/MAX Choice Properties. <enskaler@ttservicesinc.com>
Hendersonville, Tn USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 3:11 PM CST

Please know that I am so very sorry for your loss. I know what you are going through. Today is the 2nd anniversary of my Husband's death and this just makes it so much harder to deal with. I didn't know Karen, but I feel as if I know her through Lisa and I feel as if I have loss another family member. You all are in my thoughts and prayers and will be be forever.
Linda Evans <EVANSL@STLUCIECO.GOV>
FORT PIERCE, FL USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:51 PM CST

Rest in peace my sweet, wonderful, smiling friend. We are all blessed to have had you in our life. Your memory will live on forever and I will miss you so much.

Steve, Sam, Bean and family, Please accept my deepest condolenceses. You are all in my heart and prayers. Karen has been so blessed to have such a wonderful group of family and friends. She will be truly missed by all of us. She has given us all so much.

Know that I will be there for you anytime you need me. And I mean that from the bottom of my heart.
Love you all.
Josie <zuriel@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:38 PM CST

To the Caruso/Rossi Families----
Please accept our deepest condolences. It was a long hard road and Karen is finally at peace. We love you all soooooo much and are very sad......very sad. We are here for you.
Susan and Mauro <ignelzis@stlucieco.gov>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:21 PM CST

Ti Amo, Ti Amo, Ti Amo. Rest in Peace! You are missed already... Go with GOD. love, lynda
Lynda Baarton <tiedyelyndab@att.net>
Aurora, CO - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:10 PM CST

Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of Karen's family and friends. Karen is at peace now and hope that brings some comfort to you. I am sure Karen is looking down on all of you with so much love and appreciation for everything you did for her during her illness. Karen was truely blessed with such wonderful family and friends. Thank you Lisa and Eric for taking the time to send us all updates on Karen. I think it truely helped us feel connected to Karen and her family during this very difficut time.

Love, Kathy and Choppy
Kathy <Kathy.Pippa@intel.com >
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:10 PM CST

Karen, Samantha and I miss you so much. We will always be comforted with the memories of love and happiness you brought into our lives. And yes, I do forgive you for taking Samantha to get her bellybutton pierced. :) WE LOVE YOU SWEETHEART!!!!
Kim Myers <Myersk7@k12tn.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:05 PM CST

God Bless you Karen, Love forever from the Chmela Family.
My sympathies to Steve, The Rossi family, The Caruso Family and all the hundreds of friends.
Theres nothing that could ever say what I am feeling right now.
Heavenly Angel, I will never forget you Caruso.....
Dave Chmela

Dave Chmela <DC300AMP@aol.com>
Carmel, NY USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:04 PM CST

We still see "through a glass darkly" but our beloved Karen sees "face to face". Our pain on this side, her joy on the other side - tough to comprehend, but we believe it to be true. Our love to you all and God give you strength, and somehow, peace.
Mike and Sally Bales <haybales@freeway.com>
Charlevoix the Beautiful, MI USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:01 PM CST

I rushed in from picking Gina up from school and when I read the update, I wasn't ready for what I knew was inevitable. I look at Karen's beautiful smile and it just doesn't seem real. Karen, I know you are in a peaceful place now and we shall all be together again at some time. Your pain is gone and although our hearts are broken, the wonderful memories and the warmth of your love will live on in each of us forever. Every song I heard lately reminded me of you and particularly one today..."Heaven must be missing an angel..."

I wish to extend my sincere condolences to Steve, Sam, Bean, Lorraine and all the Caruso's and Rossi's. I pray for your strength at this time. I love you all, Karen.
Cousin Karen Capone <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:01 PM CST

So long babe your pain is ended. God bless.
Gary and Sherry <freelg@realtracs.com>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 2:01 PM CST

A piece of my heart goes with you Karen Caruso Rossi...

We have ALL been touched by an Angel!

My love and my deepest sympathy to the entire Caruso/Rossi clan and extended families/friends.

I will hold the memories of the best years of my life forever in my heart.

Carole M <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:56 PM CST

Karen,

Just wanted you to know that I Love You!!!
Mary Beshearse <beshearm@realtracs.com>
Hendersonville, Tn usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:49 PM CST

Our condolenses to the Caruso/Rossi clan. I have checked this page over and over and over everyday for update and just was not expecting this yet. I love you all...god bless.

Karen, may you rest in peace and finally be healthy once again WE LOVE YOU ALWAYS
Somme <sommer27@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:28 PM CST

i met karen at hanning realtors and will never forget her smile and her laugh. my thoughts and prayers have been with her and her family for many months. i will continue to pray for their healing.
donna mobley <mobleydo@realtracs.com>
madison, tn us - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:25 PM CST

Steve, Sam ,Bean, and Family,
My First and last entry in this journal;
I will love you and be here for you as Karen wishes.
She is at peace, without pain.
God Bless You All...I Love You. Booty
Beth Kohler <bkohler22@aol.com>
Danbury, CT USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:24 PM CST

I LOVE YOU SWEATHEART. REST IN PEACE GOD BLESS YOU STEVE,SAM AND BEAN.
ETERNAL LOVE JULIE <julesrizz25@aol.com>
DEERFIELD BEACH, FL - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:12 PM CST

Karen, Thinking of you makes me smile and we want you to know we are thinking of you and praying for you every day. I wish I could wish your troubles away. We Love You, Erika, Dan, Lauren and Andrew Dauk xoxoxox
Erika , Dan, Lauren and Andrew Dauk <eldauk@aol.com>
massillon, oh usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:51 AM CST

I came here by way of the Martin7. Although you don't know me, I'm feeling deep pain and sadness for Karen's family right now.

I identify with the sisters because I lost my big sister-best friend-traveling companion to metastatic liver cancer 6 years ago. It was a fast 4 months from diagnosis to passing and I'm still in shock. My heartfelt prayers are with all of you right now.
Melaney Jordan <mjordan515@hotmail.com>
Columbus, OH USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:49 AM CST

I love you Karen
addie <madi515@comcast.net>
hendersonville, tn united states - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:26 AM CST

KAREN, I'M PRAYING FOR YOU. YOUR COURAGE HELPS ME TO BE A BETTER PERSON,AND TO MAKE THE MOST OF EACH AND EVERY DAY.
I FEEL I'VE GOTTEN TO KNOW YOU THROUGH OUR WONDERFUL FRIEND MAUREEN LINDER. I'M ASKING GOD TO PLEASE GIVE YOU PEACE AND COMFORT. ALL MY LOVE ARETHA
ARETHA A. MIMS <MIMSA@REALTRACS.COM>
GALLATIN, TN UNITED STATES - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:21 AM CST

Karen, I came across a picture last night of all of us dressed up in silly hats and clothes getting ready for "Family Olympics" up at camp in Michigan, for some reason we are all posing pointing up to the sky. I will always look at the picture in a diffrent way and think of you in a better place with no pain. You and the family are in my thoughts all the time, please know I love all of you and Karen I will miss that wonderful laugh and smile. Hopefully all of us that had the honor of knowing you will show the same kindnesses to others as you have! In his love, Barb
Barb Nelson <Bdesigngirl@aol.com>
TC, Mi - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 12:01 AM CST

I'm praying for your family right now. I found your page through the Martin families website. God bless you.
KD
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 11:57 AM CST

Karen,
you will always be in my heart! I remember you taking me to my first concert to see Blondie and to see Utopia and the "smokey" atmosphere :-) I am so glad Max got to meet you! I love you and miss you!
Julianne Kosobiecki <jewels6422@yahoo.com>
milford, ct usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 11:52 AM CST

I'm visiting this site from a friend of mine, Linda Martin. Please know that prayers are being said for this very special person. May God bless you all with strength that you need at this moment and going forward.
Robin
PA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 11:37 AM CST

I'm visiting your site as requested from Linda Martin.

Stay strong and know prayers are going up from someone you don't even know in Tompkinsville, Kentucky.

Charolette
Tompkinsville, Ky USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:57 AM CST

Kar,

It breaks my heart to read the recent updates, although I want to know what's going on every minute. My love to you always. It's time for you to have eternal rest and no more pain. Your legacy lives on in each and every one of us. Thanks for the memories! You are one of a kind and I mean the best kind. I am praying your are on your way to Heaven and not in any pain. Loving you always and praying for everone. Love ya, Karen
Karen Capone <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:56 AM CST

"OH MY NERVES" YOUR VOICE JUST ECHOED THROUGH MY EARS, IN THAT CUTE N.Y. ACCENT OF YOURS. REMEMBER? TOLD YA, I CAN'T FORGET!!! NEVER WILL...YOU'RE IN MY HEART AND SOUL. SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE..I LOVE YOU KAREN...
LYNDA ABERISK FALIS BARTON <TIEDYELYNDAB@ATT.NET>
AURORA, CO USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:51 AM CST

Having gone through this last spring when I lost my mother, I can only say my prayers are with you and your family. Though I am only a fellow realtor and never got to work or meet Karen, the pain for the family is something you will get through with the help of all your friends. You will cry at the most unexpected times and eventually you will laugh with the memories more and more. You have to believe that Karen will go to a better place, without pain and will be guarding over you for the rest of your own days. Bless you
Sherrilea Baugh <sherrilea.baugh@crye-leike.com>
Bethpage, Tn USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:46 AM CST

I wish we could still be there by your side, rubbing your head, holding your hand.

Kristen and Natalie light up and yell 'Aunt Karen !!!' everytime I open up the website. They are the newest duo, like Karen and Robin, like Sam and Bean.

Don't worry, our girls will keep it going. The Rock and Roll, The Movie Stars, The Clubs and Beaches, The Mansions and Yachts. I'll make sure they do !!! And while they are at it I know they will be thinking of you.

We Love you soooo much, and miss you already.

You will always be in our hearts...

Uncle Eric, Stephanie, Kristen and Natalie <ebrossi@aol.com>
Heading back to Brookfield, CT - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:37 AM CST

With strong prayers and thoughts of all of you at this
time and especially Karen.
Molly Bass/ RE/MAX Choice Properties <bassm@realtracs.com>
Hendersonville, TN US - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:29 AM CST

Dear Rossi Family, I just went to Kevin Martin's website and Linda asked that a prayer be said for Karen. Please know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult and trying time.
Delores Watson <jwatson1253@nc.rr.com>
Clayton, NC USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:26 AM CST

Karen,

Robin called me last night and we are praying for you and your family. You made a LOT of friends in your life and I know your daughters and family will be helped through this with the love you showed to us all. You are an amazing, wonderful friend !

All My Love to You and Your Family,

Randy
Randy Jackson <randy@thedoor.com>
Long Island, NY U.S. - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:18 AM CST

Kar,
Your voice will always echo in my mind as will the visions that go along with it. Kindness, goodness, and happiness are just part of who and what you are. That will stay with us. Please put in a good word for me. I know that if you do, when I arrive, God will say, "Oh, your with Karen? Come right in."
I love you Kar.

Love as always, and forever,
Johnny B.

Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:16 AM CST

I am so lucky having known you. I'm even luckier having been loved by you. My dear friend a few weeks ago when we spoke on the phone, I asked for your forgivness and you said don't be ridiculous I will always love you. No matter what. I am a better person because of you and will love you always and forever. The best gift I've ever given you is Steve, Jesse, Jamie and jordan. I'm so glad for them. getting to know you over the past few years has had a life changing experience I know they'll never forget. being in your presence is the gift you've given me my friend, now god will take care of you like you've taken care of so many of us. This is only good-bye for now. not forever. God bless you karen I love you.
Julie <julesrizz25@aol.com>
Deerfield Beach, fl usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:08 AM CST

Karen...Jim and I will always smile with every thought of you...God broke the mold when he made you so I guess he needs that sunshine you provide in heaven...You are truly special and our "LUV"...I am so blessed to have known you and worked with you. I will miss you but will never forget you. Love Martha
Martha Stamper <stampermj@aol.com>
Hendersonville, TN Sumner - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:42 AM CST

Karen,
I have not seen you since I was a teenager, but I often think of you, Steve, Sam and Bean. You were always so fun to be around and the girls always cracked me up. I read this thought and it reminds me of you--
I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one,
I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when the day is gone.
I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times, and laughing times, and bright and sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun,
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Petra Volinski (gsudioso) <petravolinski@yahoo.com>
Goshen, CT USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:25 AM CST

Karen , ill never forget you and all of the times we spent together when we were younger , i love you
Joby Pippa <jcpippa@varifasteners.com>
Milford, ct usa - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 9:13 AM CST

Sweetheart, Karen...you have been with me in my heart and mind throughout this experience even though we've only spoken briefly. Fortunately you have been able to see the wonderful community of so many friends and love ones around you and your family. Know we will continue to be there with open arms. Your warmth and refreshing force of personality has been such a unforgettable gift. Thank you so very much. Love, Dale
Dale Stephens <dale.stephens@comcast.net>
Nashville, TN USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:55 AM CST

I love you karen!

Ally Bruno <cbruno0404@aol.com>
hendersonville, tn us - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:33 AM CST

Hi Aunt Karen, how are you doing? Thank you for all of the presents you gave me. Hope you feel better
Love,
Kristen and Natalie
Kristen 7 and Natalie 4 <cuomorossi@aol.com>
Brookfield, CT - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:13 AM CST

My Dearest karen,
May our Dear Lord bless you and keep you, may his light shine upon you and grant you peace.----
LOVE YOU ALWAYS

Ceil & Bob
Ceil Martino <rjmartino@sbc.net>
Plainville, Ct - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 7:55 AM CST

Dear Karen and Steve,
It's been a long time. Since I heard the news I have been running over all the times we had in my mind. these times will never be forgoten. Please know that you are both in my thoughts and prayers. Karen, your spirit will allways shine and your life will go on through the lives of your beautiful children. Know that the lives of those who have known you will forever be better for you having touched them. You will know peace.
Mark Swan <markzoom1@sbcglobal.net>
New Fairfield, CT USA - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:48 AM CST

dear karen,
what is a mullet haircut?
love caryn
(never one for keeping up with the current fashion ...)
sister caryn <clrossi.louie@earthlink.net>
with you at home, TN - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:44 AM CST

I love you Karen.
Jesse Abrams <abcwtf@gmail.com>
Parkland, FL - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:00 AM CST

I can remember the first time I met Karen. I was with my long time friend, Joby Pippa, and he took me to his cousins bar. I guess I was around 14 or 15, and Karen was the cool cousin, who knew all the rock stars, and everybody else for that matter. However, at that time in my life, the most important thing was that Karen could get us beer!!!!!!!! Life is funny with it's twists and turns, and who the hell knew I would later marry Karens beautiful sister, Lisa. If you know me well, then you know what a positive force my Lisa has been in my life. I am one of the lucky ones, who landed a Caruso girl. As the years passed I grew closer to Karen, Steve, and their beautiful daughters. Whenever I needed to look like I had connections, Karen and Steve got me those prized backstage passes, for just about any concert I went to. There is one memory of Karen that will stay with me until the end of my life. I had come to Nashville for the first time, on work related businness. Karen and Dalette had arrived at my hotel to take me out on the town, and my jaw hit the floor, at the sight of these two beauties. All of the drunken cops at the hotel refused to believe that Karen was my sister-inlaw. I was shown the best night spots in Nashville, in the company of two beautiful women, I even had a drink with Ozzy Ozbournes guitar player, Zak Wyld. The next day I slept late, on Karen and Steves couch, and missed work related business, so did Karen!!!! ha ha ha damn hangovers.
In closing this novel, I sould add that this is the hardest thing I have ever had to witness in my life, and i've seen alot. I know that a part of my beautiful wife, Lisa, is going to die with her beloved Karen, and that causes me great pain. Even in Karens darkest hours she has managed to bring people together. I have a new brother, Eric Rossi. This man is a saint, I love you Eric!!!!. Karen has extended my family, and I want to extend my love to Stephanie Rossi, Gayle, Deanie & Suzy, Laura, Kady, and Mike, Caryn, Kathy, "Keep it Real" Kim, my buddy Robin, Sussie from the bar, Dalette, Sheri, Mauren, Frank, Jan, Rachel, and Bootie.

Karen touched us all, and her spirit will continue to live on in all of us. My heart is broken, and I can't bear to see Lisa, Lorraine, Steve, Sam, and Bean in this pain.

God Bless you Karen, you will be missed, and never forgotten.

Rob Fonteyn <rfonteyn@cityofpsl.com>
Nashville, TN - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:16 PM CST

dear karen,
along time ago you told me the girls wanted to iceskate,
they then covered the kitchen floor with oil, and you found them skating. you said it took it forever to clean it up, and also them. when i look up in the sky i know that you willbe skating, and laughing, saying ok guys this time you clean it up. i have the paper towels waiting. love susan
susan hansen kelly <susansuede@aol.com>
danbury , ct fairfield - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:30 PM CST

It was nice to meet you. I love you . . . . . and you're very funny !

- Max
Max Kosobiecki <maxkoso@yahoo.com>
Milford, CT - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 7:33 PM CST

Dear Karen,

This is your cousin Gina. I want you to know that "I LOVE YOU" and will miss you. I have been praying for you every day at home and school. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART.

Lots of Love,
Gina
Gina Capone <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 7:04 PM CST

Dear Karen,

I'm so glad you are now at home, with your loving family. I know this is what you were waiting for. I continue to pray that you are not in any pain and that you are peaceful. I know you can feel the immense love everyone has for you and you can hear our unending prayers. I Love You, Honey! Steve, Sam and Bean, I love you and have you all in my prayers, always.
Karen Capone <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 6:33 PM CST

hi its judy and jordan love and best wishes at this time most of all and always. thoughts and prayers are with you
jordan and judy <basspro4826@yahoo.com>
parkland, fl us - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 6:15 PM CST

I am glad that you have made it back home, surrounded by the ones you love the most. I am honored that you called me "friend". Jesus is love, and he will welcome you with open arms. Sweet dreams dear Karen. I will always remember you.
Love,
Kim
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:57 PM CST

Home is good.......and this does not surprise me,
as I knew her to be the female version of Muhammad Ali.
There's a lot of Fire which burns strong inside her soul.
"Golden Lady"
All My Love , Now.....Always and Forever,
Dave Chmela
Dave Chmela <DC300AMP@aol.com>
Carmel, NY USA - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 4:57 PM CST

Hey Aunt Karen I know I got to say goodbye in person, which is a blessing in itself. But I just wanted to leave a little note just as a secondary goodbye. Aunt karen I obviously know you'll never read this but sam and bean can read it to you. I just want you to remember how much I love you, and thank you for always supporting me throughout my life. I know what everyone says but I will never give up hope on you, because I know you are a fighter and I know I sound crazy but there is no reason for me not to believe in miracles. I just want you to be happy if God feels that you need to be with him, in a way I guess that will be all of our miracles. Because in heaven you can be with all of us. You have made an impact on everyone you have met with your loving yet sarcastic personality. I am just proud to be part of your family and to have some of your blood running through my veins. I just hope that all of us can fing the strength and courage that you have shown throughout this past year. I love you Aunt Karen, and just keep on fighting. I pray for you everyday which is something I never thought I would do..... Love Always, your FAVORITE niece Meghan xoxoxo
Meghan Barr <Meghanrose87@hotmail.com>
Ft.Pierce, FL - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 4:41 PM CST

Karen,

We may be miles away but we are right there sitting beside you and your sweet family since you are all in our hearts. You have such a vibrant spirit and it is staying with you. We all love you guys and will also remember such great times that we spent on Candlewood Lake. Just a few little growing up quotes: Sabrina you saying "...pause...I have a cat" and "but where are your shoes?" and both of you girls being so much fun to watch grow up. I sound old because I am. Steve, we watched the video of you guys playing on New Years and I got a huge lump in my throat and also said at the same time- that Steve is so talented! It was so great to see Karen as I knew her best- dancing, smiling and so full of life. We are praying and wishing for peace for all of you and send all of our love to you.
Love,
Andrea, Matt and Caroline Scholer
Andrea Scholer (Stephanie Rossi's sister) <AMScholer@yahoo.com>
Durham, NC - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 4:14 PM CST

Goodbye sweet friend....
Pam Redden <jredden@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, March 21, 2006 2:44 PM CST

To my dearest friend Karen, I have always loved you and my Love has never faultered. God is with you all the way.

XoXo
Love Ronnie Catania
Ronnie Catania
Fort Lauderdale, FL US - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 2:22 PM CST

TO MY OLD FRIEND KAREN AND HER FAMILY: I CANNOT EVER FORGET THE FUN WE HAVE HAD TOGETHER . I ONLY WISH I COULD SAY GOODBYE IN PERSON, KAREN. I CRIED MYSELF TO SLEEP LAST NIGHT, YOU WERE ON MY MIND. IT HAS BEEN MANY YEARS, BUT THE MEMORIES DONOT, AND WILL NOT EVER FADE. THE FASHION SHOWS, THE STORE, THE BANDS, I EMBRACE THESE THINGS AS MY FUN IN THE 80'S, I WOULDN'T TRADE THESE MEMORIES OF YOU FOR ANYTHING! I SIT HERE WITH A PICTURE OF US HUGGING, AT A LAKE PARTY, SABRINA HOLDING A BLOWUP PINK GUITAR. I THINK IT WAS A BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR HER. YOU, AND I AND SUE HANSEN IN A GROUP GIRL HUG... THIS IS HOW I WILL REMEMBER YOU MY FRIEND. (P.S. THERE WERE MULLET HAIRCUTS ALL AROUND US, YOU TOO, ERIC!) YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION, I LOVE YOU, AND WILL MISS YOU. LYNDA (303-881-1574) IF ANYONE COULD PLEASE CALL ME?? ROBIN, ERIC? THANX!!!
LYNDA FALIS BARTON <TIEDYELYNDAB@ATT.NET>
AURORA, CO USA - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 2:00 PM CST

Kar,
We're ALL with you ALL the way. You will always be with us. I'm figuring I have whole lot of you here through Robin. I never heard two names used together more than yours; until I knew better I used to think Karenandrobin was one word. Robin introduced you to me when you guys ran the first of the famous Venice Beach East fashion shows at Teddy's nightclub. I was lounge manager and you and Robin had the clothing business. Robin was working as a cocktail waitress at Teddy's too, and she TOLD me a few weeks earlier that you and her would be doing a fashion show there, that you needed (would have) a full banquet room for your wares, and also that you would pay no rental fee to the hotel, oh yeah, and that you and your friends would have free drinks. I said, "OK" cuz I was scared of you guys. I then told the owner about the great deal I I made and he was like, "What about the banquet room rental?" I said that Robin and Karen would pay nothing, that he would like it! and that he would reap the benefits of their business." He was like, "Yeah, right, great way to run a business John, let's just make everything free." So it's an off night in the lounge (a Monday or Tuesday or something), you guys were setting up, and that's where Robin introduced me to the other half of Karenand robin, Robinandkaren, whatever. You had that exact same look you do here on your home page - head cocked, that "I'm cute but don't forget I'm also sexy smile." I remember EXACTLY where you were standing (in front of the Banquet Room A door) and what you were wearing (a short one piece dress, shiney, sexy, hot)I thought you were really cute, but Steven already laid claim, you had a 6 month old Samantha, and Robin had a leash on me (still can't get the damn thing off). Robin was working wardrobe dressing the models, Steven was setting up the sound and you were bossing.
I still have the tape, in a VERY VERY DEEP voice, with echo, it starts "Venice...Beach...EAST." The show blasted off with incredible choreography by the Hansen Dance Company, incredible music and hot models to which... Teddy's brought in the biggest happy hour take since it was built. Ohhhhh Yeahhhhh, Johnny B's lookin' good now. Who knows how to run a business now? Isn't that friggin' great, I look like a kid with business savvy and here I was just the beneficiary of you two bossy chicks pushin' me around. "John, can you get Venice Beach East back here again for another show?" Unbelievable, my stature with the owner is a lock and I'm in with the music crowd at the same time. Nowwwww, just to figure out what to do about these penny loafers I'm wearin', these will have to go if I'm goin to fit in with all this leather, hot chicks, big hair, long nails, huge earings...

I love you ...and all your damn friends too!

Love forever xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo,

Johnny B.

Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 12:31 AM CST

For the short time I have known Karen, she touched my heart immediately. What a wonderful sense of humor, she will always put a smile on my face everytime I think of her. Love to Karen's family and close friends, she has a good one in Gayle Wilkinson.
Lisa M. Harrison <lharrison@purina.com>
Birmingham, Al USA - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:32 AM CST

Thoughts of you running through my head....

Sending love, love and more love your way.

Carole M <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:22 AM CST

Dear Karen, Steve, Samantha, Sabrina and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Karen it's time to rest, just know that earth's loss is heaven's gain, what fun they will have! I often think of our trip to TN a few years ago,you made us feel like part of your family. God speed Sissy!
love Marian, Gerwyn,Gerard, Dominic and Caitlin
Marian Williams <ardnaree05@hotmail.com>
Yorktown Hgts, NY - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 9:47 AM CST

Karen - you have given it such a strong and valiant fight -you are an inspiration and I am so proud of you! You will always be in my heart and I continue to pray for you and your family. Sleep peacefully sweet friend.
Vicki Smith <vsmithhomes@comcast.net>
Hendersonville , TN - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:42 AM CST

karen, steve, and girls,still praying for you guys.i can only begin to guess at how you are feeling, but someone has to tell karen not to roll her eyeballs at st.peter.love ya karen, have a peaceful journey.....frankie
frank porfidio <service@audiosoundny.com>
farmingdale, ny usa - Tuesday, March 21, 2006 0:52 AM CST

For the Rossi Clan...
We have loved the stars for far too long
to be afraid of the night.
And though the physical may be gone
Karens light will always shine bright.

We love you all.
Bill and Lisa
Lisa and Bill Gagnon <LisaMHG@aol.com>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 11:21 PM CST

Karen and family,
I love you so much and I know heaven will be a much better and fun place having you making them laugh all the time.
You have brought so much to my life. For that I will always be thankful. You are so loved. Samantha, Bean and Steve, you are in my prayers always. Anything at all that I can do just know I will be there. I love you guys.

Karen, I love you.
Josie <zuriel@comcast.net>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 10:54 PM CST

As I sit here, I am still hoping for some kind of miracle, or hoping it's some kind of bad dream, I still can't believe it. But deep down, I know you'll be in a better place, I guess Im selfish, but I would rather you stay here, and continue to make us laugh. However, I don't want you to suffer anymore. I'm so glad for the time we had 2 weeks ago. I will treasure those memories forever, as well as all the other memories I have. I'll miss you my friend, and until we see each other again, just know that I'll love and miss you always.....XOXOXOXO
Cindy Bruno <cindybruno@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Monday, March 20, 2006 9:44 PM CST

karen you were the highlight of the chatterbox rest. in brookfield ct. we loved having you with us, but Jesus has a better plan for your eternity. God be with your girls and steve. you will be grately missed by everyone you touched by your love, peace and joy you gave to the world!
TERRY AND JACK CIPOLLA <terryandjack1963@aol.com>
BROOKFIELD, CT USA - Monday, March 20, 2006 8:56 PM CST

Bean, thank you so much for your note. We are so thankful for this site so we can get updates on Mom, family and friends. Thank you Eric for providing us with the updates. I check the site constantly and it really helps us feel connected with everyone there in TN. We are with all of you in spirit and prayers. It is amazing how many people your Mom has touched in her life and the love and support that your family and friends have for ALL of you.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.
Love Always, Kathy & Chop
Kathy Pippa <kathy.pippa@intel.com>
Danbury, - Monday, March 20, 2006 8:52 PM CST

Karen,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm thinking back to all the fun,crazy times of the fashion shows. Great memories.... You're one of a kind that can never be duplicated.... EVER....I'm glad to have been blessed by your friendship. Your spirit will go forever by all the lives you have touched. God Bless.
Lauren Hansen <lorlorleather@aol.com>
Danbury, CT USA - Monday, March 20, 2006 8:42 PM CST

HEY MAAA...im sittin here i the family lounge readin all ur entries...so many people love u just as much as me! me n sisssssy got our tat tat tat's today! i love it...it hurt 10 times more than the stupid star and it means WAY more (why did i even get that haha)! i love u more than anything in the world and i want u to be happy and peaceful right now more than anything!!

HEY EVERYONE ON THE SITE..... i love u all and thanks sooo much for lookin at the site everyday and for all the funny stories that make me laugh thinkin about mom! besides havin all this family here, ur messages and love n hugs u send us really help! THANK YOU....muuuahhh! (hug hug hug)
beeeean <anirbasr@aol.com>
gtown, tn - Monday, March 20, 2006 8:25 PM CST

Karen Rossi and family,

You are all in my heart and prayers. I just learned of this terrible news. I remember growing up with the girls from my parents bar (Chatter Box).I loved to hang out with Karen she was like a big sister to me and bailed me out of several speeding tickets so my parents didn't know.Thank you Karen for being part of my life. I love you.

Tracy Cipolla Straiton
Tracy Cipolla <gstraiton@amphenolrf.com>
Brookfield, Ct US - Monday, March 20, 2006 8:11 PM CST

Karen,
When I took the shuttle over to the hospital today, the driver asked, "Are you going to see Karen?"
I said, "Yes. Do you know her?"
He replied, "No, uh, well, yes, uh ... she's, um, a celebrity at the hotel."
How many lives you have touched ...
You will live forever in our hearts.
Ti amo, ti amo, ti amo

Sister Caryn <clrossi.louie@earthlink.net>
Nashville, - Monday, March 20, 2006 7:42 PM CST

Karen, we love you! I hope you feel better soon. I hope Susie gave you all of our love.
Steve, Samatha and Sabrina - We love and miss you!
Love, Jessica, Mommy, Daddy, Brad and Jeter.

Jessica <kathy,pippa@intel.com >
Danbury, CT - Monday, March 20, 2006 7:39 PM CST

Dear Karen, Steve, Samantha & Sabrina - Just was sent this site and have heard the news. Nick and I are praying for your family-- for healing if its God's will, and if not, for comfort, peace, and guidance thru your time of grieving. Karen, I enjoyed working with you at Lakeside-- what a joy you were to work with! Sounds like you've had quite a journey, from reading the entries here, and that you also have quite a support group around the country.
How blessed you all are to have had such a wonderful wife, mom, sister and daughter!
In His love,
Karen and Nick Barnes - Hendersonville, TN
Karen Barnes
Hendersonville, TN US - Monday, March 20, 2006 7:27 PM CST

Karen dahlink,

I'm sending you and the Family a big hug.
Know that we love you and will always love and celebrate your life.
Qiuhu often says that she'll always have you right here (as she points to her heart). And so it is with us as well. We will always have you in our hearts. So although we are far away, we are holding your hand, stroking your head, whispering our love into your ear and believe that you hear.

Love.

Gregory and Qiuhu Louie <gregory.louie@yahoo.com>
Carrboro, NC - Monday, March 20, 2006 6:45 PM CST

I just wrote to say I love you
I just wrote to say I care
I just wrote to say God Bless you
And I wish I could be there.
Lorraine
Lorraine Rossi <luvtomine@yahoo.com>
Katonah, NY - Monday, March 20, 2006 6:26 PM CST

Karen! To me, you are one of the biggest rays of sunshine. You always light up the room! I am thinking of you, your beautiful girls and your family and praying for you all!
Tiffany Cripps
Tiffany Cripps <tiffanycripps@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Monday, March 20, 2006 5:20 PM CST

my dear karen, steve, and the girls, what a way for me to say hello. i have been in colorado for almost 14 years, and i must think of all of you at least once a month! i will never forget you karen! you have been a wonderful friend, and have touched my life in so many ways. i so wish we could speak. i am saddened by what i have heard. i just want you to know how much you mean to me and that i love you very much. you are in my thoughts and prayers, always and forever you will be in my heart. i wish i could give you a big hug right now. someday, we will meet again my friend...all my love, lynda
lynda falis barton <tiedyelyndab@att.net>
aurora, co usa - Monday, March 20, 2006 4:33 PM CST

Karen,

I just wanted to let you know how much I love you. You are just like a mother to me and I hope you realize how dear you are to my heart. I really have a lack of words at this moment, but you have been constantly on my mind. Thank you for being a guiding light in my life. I love you so much Karen!!!
Terris <phinelinedrag@yahoo.com>
Coral Springs, FL - Monday, March 20, 2006 3:21 PM CST

I'm having a hard time saying goodbye right now. I'm here at work and my heart aches for the great loss that we are all about to experience. I am finding the finality of this incomprehesible, it's just hard to believe that it is really true.
Thank you Eric for the beautiful words and the update. We have ALL been touched by this dear life. Karen will continue to make us laugh as she will live on in our memories forever.

Nothing could ever take the place of a mother, but I know Sam and Sabrina, that you have so many people in this world who love and care about you so very much. I'm sure you know that your Mom could not have been more proud of who each of you are.

Steven, please be good to yourself, we all know how much Karen means to you and how devastated you are. Know that you too are very special, and that as Karen moves to her next adventure the prayers will continue for you and your girls. Receive the love Steve, we are hurting with you and for you.

With much love
Carole M <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 2:52 PM CST

Karen,
I love you so much and you and Sabrina and Sam and Steve are all in my prayers. I will always have a smile on my face when I think of all the memories we have together..like when I cut my bangs to look like Sabrina's cause I thought that they were so cool and you always told me they looked so pretty when really they were the ugliest things ever! Or when you surprised us with a limo to the NSYNC concert or babysitting my "boyfriend" Kalod.
I love you Karen!
Katelyn Dauer <kate06@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN 37075 - Monday, March 20, 2006 1:53 PM CST

Hi Rossi gang,

Just wanted to send our love and prayers to hug you BIG right now. We love you all. Thank you Karen for being such a huge part of our lives for the past years. We love you bigger than the sky. Thank you for just being YOU! XOXOXOXOXOXO

Sommer Postlethwaite <sommer27@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, Tn US - Monday, March 20, 2006 1:20 PM CST

Dear Karen:
May today there be peace within
May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be.. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass the love that has been given to you...May you be content knowing you are a child of God..Let his presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance...God Bless you Karen! With love and happy memories xxxxxoooooo
Lauri Kornhaas <Lauri.Kornhaas@ge.com>
Carnation, WA - Monday, March 20, 2006 1:20 PM CST

My Precious Karen,

Spending the night with you last night and watching you lay so peaceful as God calls you home has given us all such comfort because you will not been in any more pain. The love and prayers that continue to surround you precious are the most beautiful gifts anyone could ever ask for. As your family and I prayed together and laughed together and talked to you through the night the comfort in rejoicing and celebrating your life will help us all get through this difficult time. The love for your girls is more than all the clouds in the sky or the sand on the beach. No one could love them more than you but I want you to know the spirit and kindness and love your have instilled in each of them will keep them strong and always make you so proud of them. Karen, They love you so much and you will forever be in their hearts. Thank you again for sharing your wonderful family with me. They have truly treated me like a SISTA....I love you and miss you already!!!! See you soon my "Precious Friend"
Gayle <Gayle_wilkinson@hilton.com>
birmingham, al 35222 - Monday, March 20, 2006 12:51 AM CST

karen,
i thought of trying to write some sort of emotional goodbye, and then i realized... who's this for, me or you? it's very tempting to give in and go for the tears, but that's really more selfish than giving, at least in my case. how do you describe a lifetime of feeling? i don't know, but that's how i feel... like i've been close to you for ever. even though that isn't exactly accurate.. it's pretty close. i told you once, when you thanked me for doing your fashion show lighting and for coming to see you and family when the "duke" left us, and that i was a good , true friend to you, that i was honored to do so and that no thanks were needed. i said to you then and i say now.. once you love somebody that never ends. you are loved karen. and, i could not be fonder of your family. lorraine you are my sweety (despite my chasing of your daughters... that was just a cover up... hahaha!)debbie,well i got there JUST a bit too late... darn it! lisa, well, i got there JUST a bit too early! toni...gee... well, just just GEE!(no snse stopping the cornball train now) STEVE my heart goes out to you and your lovely daughters. there is no way to over estimate your importance to karen. with out the "rock" of family, what do any of us have? eric r. you are champ of the first magnitude.this web site has been a blessing for sure. robin, kathy s. nan (wherever you are) and all karen's friends... no one is luckier than us... except karen herself. for what it's worth my thoughts and prayers are with all of you and us and.... well there goes the emotion i was desperately trying to avoid. okay....sleep sweetly scarlett.... sleep sweetly.
russell gambino <russg13@aol.com>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 12:18 AM CST

Karen, My Sweet Friend Karen,

Here are some Irish toasts and Blessings we want to send to you.

The test of Gold is Fire. The test of Truth is Time.
The test of God's love are the heavens above, and everything sublime.
Treasures in life are many, dreams realized but few,
but I know the test of God's goodness, is when he gave me a friend like you.

And when eternity beckons, at the end of a life heaped high with love,
May the good Lord embrace you with the arms that have nurtured you
the whole length of your joy-filled days.

May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon the fields. And, Until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

So Karen, until we laugh together again my friend, until we meet each other again I will always hold your warm smile in my heart and remember you always. I know that when I get that chance to walk with you, you will once again be there to welcome me. Shine on my friend.

We all love you Karen. We all love you Steve, Samantha and Sabrina, we are all here for you.

God Bless each of you.
Love,
Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky

Tammi, Mike and Emma Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Monday, March 20, 2006 12:04 AM CST

Karen,Steve,Sam & Bean
We want you to know how special you are to us. We love you and pray for you everyday.
Linda Lockhart, Zach, Kara & Nathan, Drew & Natasha <linda.lockhart@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Monday, March 20, 2006 12:00 AM CST

Karen,
May your journey to heaven be peaceful. Not only were you my real estate agent, but you were my friend. I will miss you. Heaven is going to be a better place, and the world a little more sad. God bless you my dear. I will pray to see you again someday on the other side(you can sell me a mansion instead of the dinky houses we can afford down here). Wayne and I both love ya. Rossi family you all will remain in our prayers.
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Monday, March 20, 2006 11:56 AM CST

Dear Karen,

I am so thankful for all the great times we've shared. I only wish there were more. I know that God is waiting for you with open arms to welcome you, his newest Angel. I know you have felt all the love that has been surrounding you, not only in your room, but from coast to coast. You have lived such a full life and enriched the lives of all of us. We are all better for having known you, loved you, and been loved by you. Although we won't see you in body, we will all feel you in spirit. Eric, thank you for keeping us informed and making us feel like we are there! Steve, Sam and Bean, know that we love you and are praying for Karen to have peace after this long journey. Sam, you're right, she will soon be dancing with Duke! God Bless you all. With all our love, Karen, John and Gina
Cousin Karen <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Monday, March 20, 2006 11:28 AM CST

Thinking about you every day...I close my eyes and I could hear your contagious laughter, it makes me smile. I will hold many of these wonderful thoughts close to my heart.

Mike, Irma, Michele are all thinking of you and ask for updates weekly.

Steve, Sam, Sabrina, Lorraine, Debbie, Toni, Lisa and all the family you remain in my thoughts and in my prayers.

I love you honey!!!!
Carole M <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 11:24 AM CST

Karen, I know the angels have been and are surrounding your bed giving you peace and comfort. God never fails. You came into our lives with a blast - you sweet talka you!. Some people enter our lives and then go on - only a shadow memory. YOU tho, and your precious family will always remain one of the BIG MEMORIES that will enrich us forevermore. We love you, dear girl. God bless you and your whole family. How marvelous you have all this love surrounding you - what a joy! Sally and Mike
Mike & Sally Bales <reception@cedarhomes.com>
Charlevoix, MI USA - Monday, March 20, 2006 11:05 AM CST

Kaen and Family,
You are in my heart and prayers. God is holding you in his big hands. I love you so very much and wish I could give you a big hug right now. Words can never describe what you mean to me. You have brought so much to my life.

I hope you are getting a peaceful rest.
Love you always,
Josie
Josie <zuriel@comcast.net>
- Monday, March 20, 2006 8:54 AM CST

Kar,
Hope you are resting well with your friends and family. You will never be alone. I woke up in the middle of the night thinking about you. I turned on the TV to look for something to zone out on. My cat like reflexes take me right to ESPN, that is what is pre programmed into my clicker trigger finger; I use my thumbs mostly, and it is one of the few things I am ambidexterous at. I am good at this but I'm not here to brag. So on ESPN they're showing a bowling competition. Typically bowling is where I draw the line at sporting spectatorship, but I was immediately magnetized by the commentary; the commentary harbored its own humor, and the humor, for me, always brings more thoughts of you. The commentators (that's right there's more than one!) are sitting there commiserating on the strategy the bowler is going to employ on his next shot. I'm thinking I'd last about 10 seconds talking about this stuff. "John, what do you think Billy Bob Benson is going to try on his first attempt here?" "Welllll, I'll tell ya Jim, I think he's going to try to knock 'em all DOWN!!!"
I smile from the thoughts inside my head, and I think of you...and so it ALWAYS shall be.

Eric, et. al., thanks for all you do. You are all unbelievable.

All my love,

Johnny B.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Monday, March 20, 2006 6:38 AM CST

Praying you will have a peaceful night. And for Steve... I just wanted to say thanks for talking to me on the phone last Monday... With so much that has been going on with Karen, it was kind of you to take the time to let me know what is going on. Though I have never met you in person, I can tell that just like your lovely wife that you are a kind person. Karen, Samantha, Sabrina, and you (along with the rest of yalls family) remain in our prayers
Kim Dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Sunday, March 19, 2006 11:15 PM CST

Karen, Steve, Sam, and Bean,
Wish I could be there with you guys as you go through this. Know that I'm praying and with you in spirit. I love you all!
Love, Cousin Linda
Linda Caputo <linda.caputo@microsoft.com>
Bellevue, WA USA - Sunday, March 19, 2006 10:26 PM CST

Dear Karen, Steve, Samantha and Sabrina,

We were in Atlanta this weekend working a race when I received a call from our good friend Glenn with an update. We were heartbroken to hear of the news.

We go back a very long way...too many years to count. I have been blessed to have you as friends and remember all the good times we shared in Connecticut. Like maybe...fixing the roof on the house with Sabrina or Karen needing a "new wave" boutique to be the trend setter that she is and always will be.

You have all been in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be throughout this trying journey.

If anything is ever needed, you know that we will always be here for you...those just aren't words...they come from the heart.

Much love to you!

Ron and Julie Vega

Ron and Julie Vega <jvega@easycare.com>
Denver, NC 28037 - Sunday, March 19, 2006 8:34 PM CST

dear karen and steve,
yesterday i was watching the famous venice beach fashion
show on video i just have to say, we are a crazy bunch.
your girls are beautiful, just like you. you are in my prayers,you have always given alot of love stay strong
susan
susan hansen kelly <susansuede@aol.com>
danbury , ct fairfield - Sunday, March 19, 2006 8:33 PM CST

"We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us." What "glory" you have shown the world, my sweet friend! You have radiated so much beauty, joy,and sincerity every day of your life! I thank you again, Karen for having enriched my life! You are geniune! There is nothing superficial about you. Your "what you see is what you get attitude" is real and Honey - you always deliver! You are beautiful! I LOVE YOU TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Sunday, March 19, 2006 7:47 PM CST

My Dear Friend,
I pray that you are not in any pain. I pray that you can breath easier and rest.

Please know that you are loved so much by so many people. You have spread so much laughter and brightened so many lives just being you. We are so thankful for Eric's updates and know that it is hard to take the time to update the site, but it is our only source of information since we are so far away, so thank you again, Eric. We truly appreciate it. I am grateful that so many family members are there with you to be with you and spend time with you. How badly we wish we were there also to hold your hand.

You are such an amazing woman, you have touched our lives in so many ways - brightening everyone's day with your gregarious personality and that smile that lights up the room. In reading Samantha's last entry you made us laugh because even in all this you are cracking one-liner's and bringing laughter into the room. And, how we smiled picturing you rolling your eyes and head back as Eric described, and yes, we know that Karen look well! Karen, you are truly one in a million.

Michael and I were talking this morning that if it wasn't for you dragging me to that 70's 'Cafe' , he and I would have never met. So thank you my dear friend for guiding me to find my true love. Even if you had a little help from an angry pack of women (you remember the story, don't you? ;-) If it wasn't for you, I would still be an old maid - probably still hanging out around your house with you, Steve, Sam and Bean on Sundays for your fabulous Sauce and pasta.

You and Steve welcomed me into your home with open loving arms and you treated me like family. You made me feel special and spending time with you all made me forget how home sick I was feeling. Your home was my home to me.

We were talking about being with you all and Mike and I remember watching Samantha and Stephanie show us their new dance to Brittany Spear's "Baby One more Time" and thinking, how old are they? Oh, My Gosh! We laughed. You shook your head. (and of course, rolled your eyes too!). Remember, how we would give ourselves manicures at your house and dip our hands in the hot wax and just chat away in your room, pretending we were at some spa? So many fun times. And we had so much fun on our trip to Atlanta to see Todd Rundgren. And know I can say I know who he is.

We all feel so fortunate knowing that we have a friend in You. You have defined your life by relationships and the giving of yourself to others. Look at all those whose lives you have touched in just being the fabulous you. That is a true testament to the life you live and the light you shine. Keep shining my friend, keep smiling that beautiful smile. Love to you, Steve, Samantha and Sabrina and your family. We are keeping you all in our prayers constantly.
Tammi, Mike and Emma Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Sunday, March 19, 2006 7:16 PM CST

We love you, Karen!! We are blessed to have meet you. We had a lot of laughs riding around looking for houses. We just hit it off like we had known each other forever. Thank you for everything you have done for us! We are praying for you and your family.
Misty, Donnie, and Dalton Coleman <mcolemancpa@yahoo.com>
Portland, TN - Sunday, March 19, 2006 4:54 PM CST

Thank you to everyone for all of the love and support...it means alot to our family that you are still going strong on this website. Mom is going to be "dancing with Duke" again soon, as Kim would say. Having our close friends and family here definately helps the situation tremendously...even though mom is out of it she still has her "karen moments". Here's a funny one...the other morning I laid in her bed when she woke up in the morning and I said, "mom, do u need anything?" and she looked at me and said, "ya breath is horrendous" HAHA! even through a time like this she will keep us smiling :) I love you mom and you will always be with me, no matter where I am or what I do in life. You are my best friend and I will never go a day withough talking to you. Me and Sabrina asked he if there was any advise she wanted to give us and she said "dont drive drunk" and "dont fight" :) WE WONT MAAAA!!! Love Samantha
Samantha <samanthross@yahoo.com>
Gallatin, Tn - Sunday, March 19, 2006 3:16 PM CST

Karen,
scarlet o'hara.......man! i've known you almost thirty years. there could never be enough time. dave is right... dancin' flame ! my love to you, karen; and, also to your mom, and debbie, toni, and lisa. steve and the girls... you are the luckiest three people in the universe. i know you already know that. i consider myself to be pretty damn lucky too. yours, russell.
Russell Gambino <Russg13@aol.com>
- Sunday, March 19, 2006 1:09 PM CST

Kar,
It is fulfilling to hear about the support and love for you coming in from around the country, the world for that fact, however it is no surprise. To say you are like royaly with the bastions that support and follow you would be an understatement. Royalty may be created by money or inheritance, but you have sewn greatness and love because of the way you lived your life. You have always been the friend indeed to the friend in need and you have always given hope when there seemed only hopelessness. Your presence is a blessing and the love and friendship you have fostered can never be undone; it lives on forever, for us, and the generations we spread it to. What you have created surrounds you and your family now, and it will always be there.

It is true that you reap what sew, and no one I know has ever sewn more. Your personality is not only magnetic, it is instantaneous. Those whom which you associate are the finest of people for the mere fact that they know you. Such may be why we all have been come close through you. No one anyone knows has been the Godmother to more children, including ours, the Maid of Honor to more brides, including us, and mostly, to all, the best friend that anyone has ever had. I am honored and privileged for knowing you, as are we all. You have always been the leader, not by choice, but by unanimous decision. You have never failed to show us the light. It is only fitting that you continue to lead, and where you lead, I, we all, will follow.

You have expanded your family's home across the entire nation in an unparalleled way. I have always been a true believer, something I keep mostly to myself, but I see God in everything everywhere. More than in anyone or anything, I see God in you.

Always, all my love forever,

Johnny B.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Sunday, March 19, 2006 12:09 AM CST

I have been on this same journey that your family is on. I lost my young husband on Jan 1st of this year to Cancer. Please know that I have been keeping you all in my prayers - and keeping up through Lisa Lethcoe. These last days are sacred and there is alot of love in that room. God Bless you all.
Linda Martin www.caringbridge.org/tn/kevinmartin <themartin7@comcast.net>
Goodlettsville, TN - Sunday, March 19, 2006 11:41 AM CST

Karen,
I am giving you a big hug in my heart right now. Can you feel it? Thanks for all your real estate help (including going to look at the "barn house for trolls" out in the middle of no where), and especially thank you for your friendship, your kindness, advice and the list could go on and on. You are definitly one in a million, and I am one of a million(so it seems) that has been touched in a special way for knowing you. God bless you Karen, may God bless your friends and family also, even though we have already been blessed by knowing you.
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Sunday, March 19, 2006 11:39 AM CST

Hello Rossi's it's the Nelson Boys calling...we just wanted you all to know that you're in our thoughts and prayers. If there's anything you need just let us know.

We wanted to pass this "blast from the past" memory for you to pass along to Karen

"Hey Karen...why don't you take a break and make the beds!! or maybe change th oil in the car!!

We love you all...stay strong
Geoff and Cole Nelson <geoff@hippieboy.tv>
Sherman Oaks, Ca usa - Sunday, March 19, 2006 10:50 AM CST

Precious,
It is time for your journey with the Lord. We do not want you to suffer or have any kind of pain ever again. You have been so very brave throughout this entire illness. You never complained you always remained positive and always had that smile and great spirit you have allowed so many to connect with. Your friends and your family have been embracing each other through your spirit and kindness you shared with us all. I already miss you so very much but I know we will laugh together again in a much more beautiful place. I love you with all my heart and want you to know your friendship and love has been a blessing from the day we met. You are the best MOM,DAUGHTER,WIFE,SISTER,SISTER IN LAW AND BEST FRIEND WE ALL COULD EVER ASK FOR. You were a gift to me and I realize today I need to share my gift and let you go. I love your girls and your family and I will embrace them and do everything I can to continue the celebration of your life and make sure they are safe. Precious I WILL see you again and I know you will be my Special Angel until we met again.
Thank you for being you.

I Will Love You Always!!!!!
Gayle_wilkinson <Gayle_wilkinson@hilton.com>
Birmingham, Al - Sunday, March 19, 2006 7:54 AM CST

Thinking about you alot this evening. You are a blessing in my life even though I lost touch with you for a while, you've always been in my thoughts... I would always wonder "What is that crazy Karen Rossi up to?" I hope you have a peaceful nights sleep. You are as always, in my prayers. Much love Karen.

Love,
Kim Dodd
Kim Dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Saturday, March 18, 2006 10:14 PM CST

Hey Sweet Angel!! I just read the update and I am so happy you are surrounded by so much LOVE! You are LOVE, Karen!! Thank you for being a "blessing" in my life and in the lives of so many! You exude so much love! God bless you this evening! I LOVE YOU TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Saturday, March 18, 2006 7:33 PM CST

Dear Karen,

We are thankful for your brother Eric's updates, thank you Eric, they mean so much to those of us who live so far away. Karen, we wish we were there to give you the biggest HUG. We love you. Laurie went home yesterday. Emma cannot say her "L"s so she called Laurie "Yah" for some odd reason and we got a lot of laughs out of it. She later decided to call her "MMM" so we laughed some more. Emma is 18 months and starting to talk a lot. She may not say things we understand, but its great to hear her gabbing away like her Auntie Karen. The gift of gab. What a wonderful gift. We love you and miss you. Steve, Sam and Bean, please give Karen a hug from us here in Seattle. We are all thinking of you, you continue to be in our prayers and we love you.
Tammi, Mike and Emma Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, March 18, 2006 6:20 PM CST

Dear Karen,

I just wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Katelyn and I would love to sneak in a quick visit with you as soon as you are up to it. It sounds like you've got a great group of friends and family taking wonderful care of you - so I know that you're in good hands.

The other day (out of the clear blue) I was thinking about when we took the girls to see the Spice Girls with Teresa and Favi. Do you remember that? You managed to get the girls all the way to the front row. What an experience!!

Take care and know how much we love you! Renee'
Renee' Dauer <Rdauer@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Saturday, March 18, 2006 5:16 PM CST

Hey angel!

Sending loving light your way, and Eric, thanks for the constant updates. Our prayers are with you and the family. Thank you so much for blessing my life and I will always remeber the light of your smile! Peace be with you dear friend! And we love ya!!!

Warmest embraces (even though miles away!)
Lisa and Bill
Lisa and Bill Gagnon <LisaMHG@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 18, 2006 3:44 PM CST

We love you and are thinking of your Karen and the whole family! Thanks for the updates Eric.
Barb,Sally,Mike,Cole and Geoff.
B Nelson <Bdesigngirl@aol.com>
TC, Mi. - Saturday, March 18, 2006 3:20 PM CST

We love you Karen.
wayne kim and emma dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville , tn - Saturday, March 18, 2006 3:02 PM CST

I want to send a big Thank You to Eric Rossi for stepping up and helping me get my messages thru. It means the world to me. Also to Robin and Kathy who read Karen my card,you laughed and cried reading it, I did the same writing it.

I sent a few CDs but the most important one is "CD #1".
When Karen gets home and if she feels up to it , please let her hear that one. Karen and I had a good conversation a week ago Friday, and she asked for these songs, I also added a few special ones.

I also want to tell you how many people from the RRC days have contacted me and continue to check in on a daily basis.
There are too many to mention, but it just goes to show how many people Karen touched and even 20/25 years later..
the out pouring of love and support is as strong as it ever was.
It is difficult for us up here in NY,
I am thinking of her constantly , as are many of her NY friends.
We are with you,
Dave Chmela,Nancy Chmela, Karyn Clark, Frankie Porfidio,
Jan Micheaux, Mary Ellen Carlen, Russell Gambino, Skip Hempel ,Billy and Doug Mathews, Allen Ade'.
Dave Chmela <DC300AMP@aol.com>
Carmel, NY USA - Saturday, March 18, 2006 1:38 PM CST

Dear Karen,
We just got back from Spring Break vacation and I am reading about what you have been going through this week. Eric, thanks for the updates - for those of us who are not there, we really appreciate being kept informed about what is going on with Karen. Karen, know that we are not giving up and we continue to pray for you! I am glad that so many of your family members are able to be there with you, but, for the rest of your family who are not there - we love you and wish we could be with you! Stay strong and keep your faith. You have fought so hard and remained so brave and we are proud of you. We love you, honey!
Karen, John and Gina <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Saturday, March 18, 2006 11:10 AM CST

Dearest Karen - you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Do you know that my happiest memories in Nashville include you!! I don't know how I would have got through some of my homesickness without you. You are such a unique and special person - some people have the abilty to light up a room - you have the ability to light up a whole town! May God bless you and keep you - may angels always surround you and your family. I love you and I miss hearing your voice - I'm glad we got to chat a little last year..........I'm praying for you my friend!!! Hugs and Kisses xxx
Rebecca Walker-Jones <rwj9@bellsouth.net>
Fayetteville, GA USA - Saturday, March 18, 2006 8:20 AM CST

Good Morning,Sweet Angel! I thought about you and prayed for you through the night! I LOVE YOU TODAY!!!!!!!!! May God be with you during time.
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Saturday, March 18, 2006 6:59 AM CST

Good Evening Sweet Angel! Again, I, along with a multitude of others, am praying for you. We pray that you are feeling comfortable and that you are at peace.God bless you tonight, Karen! May you feel all his LOVE and all the Love from your loved ones this evening! I LOVE YOU TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!
susanpowell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Friday, March 17, 2006 8:40 PM CST

Hey Karen, Trying to keep posted on your condition via Kim Cheryl... I am happy you are surrounded by those you love the most. Think of all the lives you've touched and enhanced just by your caring ways and your warm smile. God is in control, and sometimes the conditions are hard to accept. Through it all, you certainly have been an inspiration and a pillar of strength for us ALL! Feel the love that is out here for you Karen. God Bless you. I love you.

By the way; I was in DSW the other night, and thought of you and Robin back int he day because there were these BIG joochy lace up sneakers that went all the way up to the shin. I immediately said to myself "Karen Rossi...Robin Butillo" : ) Best memories of my life were when we were all together, no worries, just dancing to the DATES! Thank you for being a part of my life! You will always have a special place in my heart.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Carole M
CAROLE MARTORANA <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA - Friday, March 17, 2006 4:19 PM CST

keep hanging in there girl. you are beating the odds. you are gonna get you well, and then we are going to vegas!!!! love you lots karen. you and your family remain in all of our prayers. get some rest and i hope you are able to come home soon.
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville , tn - Friday, March 17, 2006 12:33 AM CST

Out of the millions of people in this world,over a lifetime God allows you to connect with a cherished few,some people's few is ten ,or a hundred, or some people's few is 20,000 or more.The connection can last from a few seconds to years and years,some will impact you in a negative ,cold way while one might "warm" and enrich your heart forever.From what I 've read here its plain to see and feel that anyones list lucky enough to include a connection with the wonderful radiant Karen-Caruso-Rossi,has been impacted in the same "warm" way-she's been a blessing to us all so all of God's blessings on her now.Love is after all the reason we are here,Karen lives that thought and from the sheer number of entries here always has....I have to believe that there are so many more people out there who need the warmth of this wonderful light... I can almost understand why God would be missing this great warmth so much and want to draw it nearer for heaven's sake. As a witness to the outporing of love in these entries I am selfish enough to pray that God will allow this great light to stay, and radiate and warm and enrich .Cherish the "warm "days always.....
Mary Ellen Carlen <medepotdoll2@aol.com>
M'boroby way of NY, TN USA - Friday, March 17, 2006 10:13 AM CST

Karen, I just wanted to let you know that you and the family are in our thoughts. We wish the best for all of you and Max said he's not mad at you! :-)
Mark & Juli <mkoso65@yahoo.com>
Milford, CT - Friday, March 17, 2006 10:11 AM CST

Hi ya Karen!
Congratulations and PRAISE GOD for a successful surgery! We're all so proud of you and can't wait for you to get out of that stinkin' hospital. (This is no way to get a vacation!) I'm getting my updates from Josefine so that I don't have to bug your mom. We're all praying for you and know that God is going to use your testimony in fabulous ways. He doesn't have you going through the fire for nothing! See ya soon, chickie!
Iris Dordal <SOLD@IRISandJD.com>
Gallatin, TN USA - Friday, March 17, 2006 9:46 AM CST

Hi Karen, just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you and hope the shunt helps
Lisa Miller <millerlubi@msn.com>
- Thursday, March 16, 2006 11:08 PM CST

Karen, I am so proud of you for being so strong. You are an amazing woman and I love you so very much. I was at the hospital while you were in surgery and I got to hear the GREAT news from your friend Gayle. I am keeping you and your family in my prayers. I keep visualizing your little body in God's huge hands, holding you tight. I wish I could come hug you and spend time with you but I want you to rest and get your strength back soon. I will keep checking in with your, by the way, awesome and fun family and friends. The girls (and off course our one guy, Craig) are keeping you in there prayers and they all wanted me to give you hugs and let you know they are thinking about you.
Can't wait to see you soon up and moving.
Love you girl
Josie <zuriel@comcast.net>
Hville, Tn - Thursday, March 16, 2006 10:27 PM CST

praying for the shunt to be an option and to help relieve some pain. love ya karen, i miss talking to ya. get to feeling better.
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville , tn - Thursday, March 16, 2006 8:58 PM CST

karen steve and family,
thinking and praying about and for you. karen you have packed more lifetimes in a single year than 10 people do in thier whole lives. tony really was a peach for calling me yesterday. i felt so helpless not speaking to you but the situation just dosen't allow for it. thanks to tony, and of course, lisa and debbie... you will know how much i think of you and your family, and that's good enough. you told me once that i would try to throw a rope around the moon and pull it down for you, if you asked me to..... well, you may have noticed that big , full, silvery, thing up in the sky the last couple of nights..... special delivery!!!! keep on going karen, the journey's not over yet. i remain your fan.
love, russell
Russell Gambino <Russg13@aol.com>
Clayton, NC - Thursday, March 16, 2006 12:28 AM CST

Karen and the whole family, I hope you can all feel the love and prayers that are being wrapped around you, we all love you and continue to hold you up in prayer. You are constantly in our thoughts! Your Michigan family...Thank you for the updates.
Barb Nelson <Bdesisgngirl@aol.com>
Traverse City, Mi - Thursday, March 16, 2006 11:04 AM CST

Kar,
Just dropping in here to say hey. So, "Hey." I know you still have that smile and are hanging in tough. Like I said before, we all appreciate it. I know you're not wasting time watching the news, but I saw one article last week to pass on since it was music industry related. It seems 'Yanni' was arrested for assault. How do you go about saying, "I was assaulted by Yanni?" How do you get law enforcement to take the complaint seriously? "Oh, sure, you were assaulted by Yanni." Yanni just doesn't register real high on the bad__s scale. "Oooooh, I'm scared, Yanni's gonna beat me up." I think If I were a kid, and I came home and told my dad a guy named Yanni was pickin' on me, he'd probably disown me. I'd like to see maybe a celebrity boxing matchup say like, Yanni vs. Michael "My Hair Is Long In The Back So I'm Not Really Going Bald" Bolton. Now there's a matchup, a catfight for the ages. That I'd pay to see. Maybe we could see it together. Heal up, we have things to do. Major love and prayers to you.

Love,
Johnny B. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Thursday, March 16, 2006 10:35 AM CST

I am so sorry to hear about her illness. It is such a horrible thing to happen. I can understand the pain the family must me going through. I wish there was something I could say to ease the hurt, but I know there isn't. I will keep Karen and the entire family in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.
Pat Wagner <wagnerp@stlucieco.gov>
Stuart, , FL USA - Thursday, March 16, 2006 9:53 AM CST

Karen, I don't know you, but I know your sister Lisa, my prayers are with you and your family.
Sonia Melendez <MelendeS@stlucieco.gov>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, March 16, 2006 9:50 AM CST

Karen & family,

All of you continue to be in our prayers.
Randy, Beth, and Rachel Williams
Hendersonville, TN - Thursday, March 16, 2006 8:42 AM CST

Hope you are having a peaceful evening; please consider yourself and your family hugged really tightly!
Pam Redden <jredden@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, March 15, 2006 9:42 PM CST

My Sweet Karen: I lost your sight for a long time, but as always kept in touch with Mom and received the updates. Kathy just e-mailed this back to me and I just wanted you to know that you are strong and a fighter and in all our prayers for a quick recovery from this set back. Love you and will be in touch again. Please keep up the fight. God loves you and so do we. Aunt Mary Anne & Uncle Charlie.
Mary Anne Pippa <mapippa@bellsoth.net>
Port Saint Lucie, Fl USA - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 6:47 PM CST

Thank you, cousin Eric, for sending the update. Karen, I love you! I want to be with you right now and make you laugh...you have the best laugh. Instead, I'm sending my thoughts and prayers through space to you. Can you feel them? Hang in there!
Cousin Linda <linda.caputo@microsoft.com>
Bellevue, WA USA - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 6:27 PM CST

Hi Karen,
I'm in Sydney doing shows with Olivia Newton-John and every night in our prayer cirlce the band and Olivia all are praying for you and sending you positive energy. I'm thinking about you and your girls everyday.
Much love and peace,
Carmella
carmella ramsey <carmellaramsey@comcast.net>
nashville, tn usa - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 5:16 PM CST

Karen, we love you.
Jesse & Terris <abcwtf@gmail.com>
Coral Springs, FL Broward - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 5:04 PM CST

Hey Sweetheart!! I am so sorry to hear the latest news. You have been in my daily thoughts and prayers and I will "double-up" on the prayers!! I LOVE YOU TODAY!!!!!!!
Susan Powell <susanpowell@bellsouth.net>
- Wednesday, March 15, 2006 3:48 PM CST

Just read the update - Thanks to Steve's brother for posting. Oh, sweet Karen - as I said earlier today you are on my mind and in my heart. You are loved by so many -as shines through in all of these postings. I pray for you and for all your family surrounding you.
Vicki Smith <vsmithhomes@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 3:04 PM CST

THANK YOU ERIC FOR THE UPDATE!!! Even though we can not be there for Karen in person, know she is in our prayers. Karen, keep strong, we love you. And to Karen's family... You all seem to be amazing and wonderful people, thank you all for keeping her friends in touch with the situation at hand, it means alot to all of us. You all remain in our constant prayers. God bless.
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville , tn - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 2:51 PM CST

Hey Karen, Sittin here remembering our escapades; Getting ready for the Ricky Martin Concert (does my butt look big?); Painting the motel, and the night we delivered sheets to the guest; Ordering pizza for all those little chorus sissies downtown Nashville; the Spice girls; NSync; and so many more hillarious times. Thank you for sharing your wonderful laughter with me so many many times. I love you girl, Teresa
Teresa Arena <MamaT202@aol.com>
Fort Myers, FL USA - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 1:42 PM CST

Karen, Steve, Bean and Sam, We send you our LOVE and PRAYERS. Favi and Teresa
Teresa Arena <MamaT202@aol.com>
Ft. Myers, FL USA - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 1:26 PM CST

Dear Karen, it is said that the Lord doesn't place more upon us then we are able to bear... He knows your strenghth more than any of us, however, I am praying that He will deem it time to remove this load from you. Although I didn't have the opportunity to get to know you as well as other CBL associates, it was obvious that you have a special place in each of their hearts. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts & prayers. Hold on... God Bless You!!
Tammy Crafton <tammyc@realtracs.com>
- Wednesday, March 15, 2006 12:49 AM CST

Dear Karen,

Of course we are continuing to pray for you and hope that the chemo will help you with this blockage. We love you and wish we were there to give you a big hug right now but please know that we are sending one your way as we write this. Laurie is here with us in Seattle for the week, we are checking this website for updates several times daily - Thank you brother Eric for your update, please keep them coming when you have the time.

Karen, please stay strong and keep fighting this fight. You are so amazing and have so much courage.

Lots of love to you, Steve, Sam and Bean. We love you and miss you,
Tammi, Laurie, Mike and Emma
Tammi Johnson and Laurie Rubenstein <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 12:20 AM CST

Karen, as always you are on my mind and in my heart.
Vicki Smith <vsmithhomes@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 9:04 AM CST

dear karen ,we did a rrc show last friday .it is amazing how many "karen" stories there are.we were across the street from the rising sun.you better get better so you can tell the other side of all these storys.your daughter was right,you'll never know how many peoples lives you have touched!just that night there was a very big boatload of very very positive thoughts sent to you.karen, please be more stubborn than you have ever been and kick this things butt!you're in my prayers every night, love ya karen, frankie rrc
frank porfidio <service@audiosoundny.com>
farmingdale, ny usa - Wednesday, March 15, 2006 0:53 AM CST

We Love You Karen! Favi, Teresa, Briana, Tonio and Brian
Teresa Arena
Fort Myers , FL USA - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 11:44 PM CST

Karen, our thoughts and prayers are with you, Steve and the girls. We love you!
Love, Kath, Chop, Brad and Jessica
Kathy Pippa <kathy.pippa@intel.com >
Danbury , CT - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 8:25 PM CST

Karen, I hope you are still reading these entries so you will know how much I am thinking of you and how much we love you. I know you have fight left in you.....I have never known anyone else who could make such sweet lemonade from a huge bunch of sour lemons!!! You are in our thoughts and prayers ever minute.
Julie, Jake, Jack, and baby!!!
Julie Carter <jcarter3@comcast.net>
Gallatin, TN - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 8:23 PM CST

Karen, God bless you and wish you the best. I remember all the good times we shared in our days with RRC. Keep strong through everything that happens knowing that you are loved and thought about by everyone.You are a very loving and special person who is in my mind will never disappear. Keep the knowlege that we all love you forever.
Jan Micheaux <JANMICHEAUX@aol.com>
Carmel, NY United States - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 7:11 PM CST

Just wanted you to know how much we love you. I was looking thru pictures the other day....found one of you holding Mason when he was a few days old. Remember how badly he cried? I must have caught you bouncing him around in your arms to calm him in the pic b/c you had such a huge smile and he was screaming his little tail off! LMAO. Too bad things haven't changed too much...he still is a pissy one;)

Stay strong, beautiful. We love you dearly.

Big hugs and kisses from all in the Postlethwaite house!XOXOXOXO
Sommer and Aaron Postlethwaite <sommer27@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 7:02 PM CST

i loooooooove u mom!!!!
sabrina <anirbasr@aol.com>
gtown, TN - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 5:45 PM CST

love ya karen!! you are a strong woman, i have the utmost respect for your strength and character. keep fighting and come home soon.
kim dodd <waynkimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 3:37 PM CST

Dear Karen
You don't know me, but I am a long time Rat Race Choir fan and was probably about 22 (now 48!)when I last saw you. Oh those were some crazy days...but oh so much fun, I wouldn't change a thing!
I understand that you are an amazing woman and that you have touched so many people and have made a wonderful difference in so may lives. I believe that this is our purpose on this planet...and it sounds as though you have fulfilled your obligation well! BUT...there is always more to do, you know! I know your friends and family would like you to get better soon as would I. The prayers are being sent in a droves...listen, you can hear them! Blessings to you and your family, Karen. Blankets of warm fuzzies surround you!
peace
Charlene
Charlene <parksville1@aol.com>
Hampton Bays, NY USA - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 2:10 PM CST

Hey sweet Girl,

Our thoughts are with you. Take all the love around you, wrap yourself in it and know that you have touched us all in a most amazing way!

Sending healing thoughts and MUCH love.

Lisa and Bill andcats.
Lisa and Bill Gagnon <LisaMHG@aol.com>
- Tuesday, March 14, 2006 11:03 AM CST

Kar,
It's the next day. Still worried. Are you eating any jello? Hospitals always seem to have a huge supply of Jello. I'd venture that Jello was invented by hospital cafeteria worker. I'm headed out of the office, but I just wanted to let you know that I would rather have my achilles tendon cut with a rusty wire cutter rather than have you sick. This is why I don't write for Hallmark Cards. But you get the point. Rest up. I'll be back later(That's the phrase that always haunted my parents). No matter where they dropped me off when I was a kid, I'd always find my way home.

Lots of love,
Johnny B.
Johnny B <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 10:16 AM CST

Karen, hang in there ,we are all pulling out all the stops and praying harder than ever for you!!! Fight the fight we all love you... Your friends in Michigan
Barb Nelson <Bdesigngirl@aol.com>
Traverse City, Mi - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 10:01 AM CST

Karen, Sherry Olson has given me updates on you and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You are an amazing woman! Lots of love,
Jennifer
Jennifer Cross <jenniferanncross@hotmail.com>
Ottawa, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, March 14, 2006 9:01 AM CST

Karen, Be strong and fight if you can. God knows, you have given this your very best effort. I pray for you to have relief from your pain and peace in your heart. Love to you and your family.
Pam Redden <jredden@comcast.net>
Hendersonville, - Monday, March 13, 2006 7:50 PM CST

Kar,
Seriously upset to read the update, however you've struggled through setbacks before. You are such a big part of all of us, and especially to me who has no friends. I love and admire you greatly for what you add to this world. If strength and goodness help, then you have a big advantage. We look forward to an upturn and are close to you in your time of need as you have always been there for us. Lots of love and Godspeed.

Johnny B.
Johnny B. <butillo@comcast.net>
Collegeville, PA - Monday, March 13, 2006 6:22 PM CST

Karen,
I second what Gayle said, "All the spirits you have lifted all your life are loving you now." It is so true. You are so loved and cherished. You are a sister to me and I love you so much. I am holding you in my heart.
With so much love
Caryn <clrossi.louie@earthlink.net>
Carrboro, NC - Monday, March 13, 2006 3:14 PM CST

Karen, I want you to know I'm praying for you. I'm so glad for the time I got to spend with you in NY this Christmas. I'll never forget our walking 10 blocks out of our way in NYC! I'll always treasure those moments. I love you!
Cousin Linda <Linda.Caputo@microsoft.com>
Bellevue, WA USA - Monday, March 13, 2006 11:14 AM CST

karen, steve, and girls,
i am thinking of you all since dave let me know you weren't well last year. i had the chance to speak to robin, your mom (karen), and steve, last march/april. i send all my love to you. i have left a few messages over the last year which i hope you've got, because i think of you all often. steve, i'm sure you have a million people telling you to let them know if you need anything, but please, i would be happy to give what assitance i can, so i feel i must offer it to you. all my love karen!!!! debbie, lisa... TONY!!!!.... if you want to contact me i'm at 919-938-3217. (love to you sisters as well.) i don't want to pester you, but i wish i could talk with you guys sometime. give a me a shout when and if you feel like it. lot's of good memories to share. lorraine(mom).... you know i'll climb that porch post for if you need me, love, love, love, russell.
russell gambino <russg13@aol.com>
clayton, nc usa - Monday, March 13, 2006 10:52 AM CST

Hi Karen,
Kristen asked me tonight if I ever heard of the song Kokomo. And I said Do I know that song. That was Cousin Samantha's Favorite song when she was little. I will never forget that fashion show and the days of Venice Beach East. I love my sister in law very much and I am praying for you. May God Bless you always
Steph
A.K.A Big Chooch Ballerina ( I guess Natalie had to take after somebody right!!
Stephanie Rossi <cuomorossi@aol.com>
Brookfield, CT USA - Sunday, March 12, 2006 6:44 PM CST

hey, just wanted to say how much wayne and i love you and you remain in our prayers. by the way, i think you have more friends than the entire population of hendersonville, and i know we are all better people for you being in our lives. i hope you are able to start chemo tomorrow, and start beating some cancer butt!!!!!
kim dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
hendersonville, tn - Sunday, March 12, 2006 12:09 AM CST

hey karen,this is frankie,from rrc road crew.dave trys to keep me up to date on your progress i am not very good with computers or typing, so this is a major project.it is amazing how when you type with one finger, letters hide and seem to come back in another place.these computers are awful pickey too,little things,like names, can drive you nuts!(i just found out how to use the shift button) this whole time i was typing in karen caruso and this damn machine (thats supposed to be so smart) could not find you.love you &praying for you, love frankie
frank porfidio <service@audiosoundny.com>
farmingdale, ny usa - Saturday, March 11, 2006 9:35 PM CST

Hey Sissy,

Just thinkin' about you and missin' you. I love you lots!

Deanie
Nashvegas, TN - Thursday, March 9, 2006 2:24 PM CST

Hey Kar, I lost my cell phone with all numbers, etc., AND this site, I have just heard the latest news from Stephanie and I want you to know that I'm thinking of you. You are surrounded with love and people that care so very much. In those rare moments when you are able to go to that quite place within yourself, visualize the love that surrounds you and know that you are being thought of in prayer.

I love you.
Carole M.
Carole Martorana <eyeofbttrfly@yahoo.com>
Ft. Lauderdale , FL USA - Thursday, March 9, 2006 1:13 PM CST

Steve and Karen,
This is Dave Chmela. I head about tis some months ago, and contacted Robin. My mother talked with Robin as well as she was very concerned. I did actually find Karyn and got her on the phone in Florida, at that time she was trying to hook up with a MD that Julie Rosetta knew. Karyn said she would call us back , but all thru the holidays we did not hear from anyone.
Obviously, we are willing to offer any help needed and plase contact us if you get a chance.
as you well know Karen is very special to me and my Mom, we wish her all the best, though we are concerned as we still do not know all of the story.
PLEASE pass on my love to Karen, nd tell her everyone in RRC is thinking of her, and wishing her the best.
My # is still 845 225 1608, my moms is 845 278 9424,
Thank You Steve, and I hope you and the kids are OK.
My prayers are with you guys.
Dave
Dave Chmela <DC300AMP@aol.com>
Carmel, NY USA - Wednesday, March 8, 2006 8:46 PM CST

Kar,
Way glad you're out of bed. I am so sorry to hear that you are feeling crappy and I certainly understand that your perseverance is due to your committment to your family and friends more than yourself. Don't think for a second that we don't appreciate it. Your pain does not permit me to complain about anything, which is difficult, because I enjoy complaining, mostly to myself though. Upon some introspective analysis I conclude that I like to pity myself, while at the same time I don't like pity from others. That's just a little bit sick. I understand that I am not right, but I work logically and scientifically with what I have.

Robin has been way bummed out about you. She was crying a little the other night, usually it's just about having to live with me, but this time it was about you. Later the same night, she stubbed her toe coming into bed and was really crying and it woke me up. She said she wouldn't make a fuss because of what you go through; I told her to be quiet, I'm trying to sleep. It looked pretty bad, I think she busted it, youch!

I was in North Carolina a couple of weeks ago for work. Everyone there was real friendly, they acted like I was normal. I think I should probably move there. Do you have any "Waffle Houses" in Tennessee? No there's a reason to keep on fighting, best freakin' waffles I ever et. Sooo anyhooo, I'm gettin on the plane in Philly, it's early in the morning, I'm hungry, but I say to myself, "Save yer appetite Johnny boy, there's a bag of pretzels with your name on 'em as soon as you reach altitude." Visions of one of those airline gourmet snacks danced in my head as I prepared to board. "Now boarding US Air Flight 4367 to Wilmington NC!" belted over the intercom from a well kempt lady in a blue blazer. Mannnn, the airlines love those blue blazers. The flight was only about half full, all EXCEPT for my seat where I got pinned in the last row against the bathroom by an old lady who fell asleep. Everyone else on the whole plane looked pretty comfortable though. Good for them, dirty rats. It was pretty nice being pinned against the bathroom wall so that my seat wouldn't go back that whole inch into that lounging position. I smiled and relaxed to the sounds of "WWWWOOOOOOSSSHHHHHHH!" as each passenger unloaded behind me. AAHHHH salvation was on the way, the Flight Attendant (aka, stewardess) was loading up her cart with those long awaited treats. Finally, she gets to me, I was not disappointed. It was a full half ounce of Twitzels! That's right girlfriend, not just pretzels. These little sons of b_____s were twisted little sticks, Yeahhh, Twitzels! I savored each and every bite, but didn't want to be a glutton. I ate till I was satisfied but not full. I thought I might save some of that giant bag for later in case I got hungry later that day. I washed those Twitzels down with Coke, poured out of a can into a cup with ice. I'm glad they don't give you the whole can, I don't think I could have finished all of that. The flight was over all too early, my neck wasn't quite finished hardening into a right angle. I think as a reflex I thanked the pilot as I exited the plane. What was I really saying?, "Thanks for not crashing into a giant fireball?" No one ever really leaves the office and walks by me and says, "Hey John, thanks for that calculation today. That was nice. That pump put out what you said it would and still had pressure to spare, good call."

The flight back was somewhat fun. The flight was again half full. I got a seat next to a cute little mom with a 1 year old baby. Oh Yeah. Since the plane looked empty, I told hot momma I'd move across the isle to the empty seats and the kid could have his own litte seat rather than kick the s___t out of me. I think 2 seconds before the flight was ready to take off, a lady and her daughter came running onto the plane, there as no doubt that out of the entire plane that they were destined for my seats. Oh what a surprise, I was right! I moved my sorry a___ back to momma and the kid. I got to like that kid. His name was Nicholas, he really liked me and mom was kinda hot. Her husband was a doctor and stayed home. She was visiting her parents in Delaware and bringing them the Kid for a visit. She was a pretty good trophy wife, doctors could afford that stuff you know. She didn't like here in-laws and never visited them. The in-laws lived in Erie. They were just weird so she tells me. I fell asleep for a little bit but snapped up for another bag of Twitzels. Oh yeah, that's what I'm talkin' bout. Nicholas just ate a fruit cup and swiped at my face for about an hour, I liked him though. We really hit it off. Too soon the flight was over. Again we didn't end up in a ball of flames on the runway so I guess it was a good flight. I forgot to thank the pilot for doing his job this time, but perhaps I could just send him a thank you note. Karen, what's with the "Lift up your seat cushion and use it as a floatation device" stuff all about??? Just land the damn plane like you learned, and I'll keep the g___d___n seat cushion under my fat a___ where it was intended to stay!!!!!!!!!!.

Back home now so I can be better abused by the family. Rode hard and put away wet, that's just the way I like to be treated. That 's what it's all about.

I gotta get home and kick butt and take some names. Karen, hang on baby, there's so much more I have to tell you. So so much. I will get to you soon. I love you very much and am so very sorry for your pain... and I do have a lot more to tell you.

Get better. Eat potassium. Eat Calcium.

Love always,

Johnny B

Romeo Void <butillo@comcast.net>
Butcher Holler, PA - Tuesday, March 7, 2006 7:04 PM CST

Dear Karen,

Although I have not written lately, we continue to pray for you! I am glad that you will be able to begin your new chemo treatments. We admire your strength and love you more than you know. You are always in our hearts and prayers. Stay strong. God Bless!
Karen, John & Gina <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Tuesday, March 7, 2006 6:13 PM CST

Hello my dearest and greatest real estate agent and friend. I have I clicked on to your webpage for the first time today. It is truly beautiful, as you are. You remain in our prayers, and we love you so much. Keep fighting, and keep strong. You are a survivor!!!!!
Kim Dodd <waynekimemma@netzero.net>
Hendersonville, Tn - Tuesday, March 7, 2006 2:50 PM CST

Hi Karen,
We are still praying for you and keep you in our thoughts always. love you,

Ceil & Bob
Ceil & Bob Martino <rjmartino@sbc.net>
Plainville,, Ct - Friday, March 3, 2006 6:04 PM CST

Karen when should I cook the chicken
Steph <cuomorossi@aol.com>
snow filled, ct - Thursday, March 2, 2006 5:38 PM CST

Hi Karen,
I've been reading the messages from your friends. You have touched so many lives with your sparkle. No wonder they all love you so much. I remember when you used to do backstage work for Steve's band, way before you guys even thought of getting married. You would sometimes visit with Lorraine and the gang in the kitchen. We, Lorraine, Pat, Gina, the various Sunrise tenants and myself would always talk about how you were eternally upbeat with always laughing eyes. I've never seen you without that twinkle in your eyes. I guess you just wouldn't know how to not twinkle. Samantha and Sabrina have them too. Steven has the Rossi/ Scagnelli twinkle. All those spirits that you lifted all your life are loving you now. Gayle
Gayle Dunkelberger <bandbbythelake@yahoo.com>
Katonah, NY US Empire - Thursday, March 2, 2006 12:02 AM CST

Karen-
We're all pulling for you. So many people are carrying you in their thoughts. Keep fighting. You are so loved
Laurie Rubenstein <jamproductions2000@yahoo.net>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Wednesday, March 1, 2006 7:24 PM CST

Hi Karen!
I was just thinking about you and wanted to send my love. Stay strong I know you are! I love you!!

Danielle Bruno <Danielle.Bruno@wku.edu>
- Monday, February 27, 2006 2:56 PM CST

HI Karen,

We are thinking of you and sending lots of love and healing prayers to you! We hope you are feeling better today and we look forward to an update. Remember when it feels so hard to keep up the fight that you are stronger than this cancer, so incredibly strong. You can do this. We know you can. Your wonder woman, show em your stuff.
Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Monday, February 27, 2006 11:27 AM CST

Hey Karen,

Unlike diseases that can be cured with a few pills and shots, individuals with cancer can be very complex and every person has to be treated differently. What i'm getting at is that at the end of the day, what it comes down to isn't all about just finding the right medication or dealing with the quality of life during chemo. I think a huge factor is your attitude through it all. That's why Steve and I are so confident that you're going to pull through. You are the strongest person i've ever met, and frankly I think in only a matter of time, as long as you stay that way, you will be brushing your shoulders off and viewing the cancer as a test of vigor. You are not just playing a cosmic lottery.

Love,

Jesse <abcwtf@gmail.com>
Parkland, FL - Sunday, February 26, 2006 3:06 PM CST

Hi Karen,

Just wanted to send you some love and let you know we are thinking about you and miss you. Remember that Thanksgiving when Julie and I came out to visit. What a blast we had. We laughed our butts off the whole time and My Dolphins beat the Cowboys on some crazy last minute fluke play. I put some strong stuff out in the universe for you. Love you lots!!!
Matt Rizzetta <matteosf@yahoo.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Sunday, February 26, 2006 11:31 AM CST

Karen...continue to fight strong. You can and will beat this. We have faith in you. I am sorry to hear the latest news but I have a strong belief that you can get thru this. Remember that, okay?

We love you.
Aaron, Sommer, Mason, Kylie, and Savanah <sommer27@bellsouth.net>
Hendersonville, TN - Friday, February 24, 2006 10:50 AM CST

Karen, So sorry to hear the latest news but remember, there are many people thinking of you and praying for you daily. The Michigan gang all love you and keep you in our thoughts!
Barb Nelson <Bdesigngirl@aol.com>
Traverse City, Mi - Friday, February 24, 2006 9:58 AM CST

Dear Karen,

We are so sorry to hear that you are not feeling well and are dealing with these latest challenges. We are hopeful that your new clinical trials will help you and we know you will be feeling better soon. We have faith in you and our Lord and know you have only yet to tap into all the inner strength that you have and that is behind you to fight this. Fight this fight with the gloves off girl. You WILL get better, God is on your side.

We love you and pray that you will be doing much better very, very soon. Get lots of sleep if you can. Know that we all love you and want you back home as soon as possible. Love to you, Steve, Sam and Bean.

Hugs and kisses,
Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky

Tammi, Mike and Emma Sky Johnson <mhjohnson100@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA United States - Friday, February 24, 2006 0:03 AM CST

Darling one,
You've been thru so much, it must feel like you just can't go on. I certainly understand that feeling, but there's Dr. Burris in Nashville with new treatments.
You'll dig into that amazing well of inner strength that has kept you hanging on when the best of us would have given up. You're such a fighter! Once the treatment has begun, you can rest and visualize your plans for Sabrina's graduation in spring.
And anytime in the days and weeks ahead that you need someone to tell you how wonderful you are, I'm here.
Your otha motha, Lorraine
Lorraine Rossi <luvtomine@yahoo.com>
katonah, ny - Tuesday, February 21, 2006 8:00 PM CST

Hey Girl,

We are not giving up and I know you aren't either. Stay strong and positive and keep praying as we all are. You are being taken care of by the best. We love you and miss you.
Karen, John & Gina <kecapone7@yahoo.com>
Oviedo, FL - Sunday, February 19, 2006 6:05 AM CST

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