By MONICA WITT

Dear Karen,

I want to write this public letter to you as a way to say goodbye and to tell or remind everyone who reads this what an unforgettable and kind person you were.

Los Alamos residents are all in shock to hear of your tragic accident – it’s like I’m waiting to hear that the plane crash didn’t really happen. I want to tell you that Addy is joining Charlie’s soccer team! She was so excited. And, I was excited to see you at the gym on Monday during lunch and tell you all about it – and that we’d have more time to visit with each other during the games. I want to tell you that seeing you always felt like such a relief – you were such a rock, so nice to always ask how my mother was doing, and ask how my kids were doing with school and sports.

I loved hearing about your boys and hockey, soccer, skiing, and all the awesome things you did with your children. Seeing you and Dan together was such an inspiration for me … my Mom tells me when you were dating it was so obvious that you were perfect together and were so lucky to find each other. You always sent my Mom a Christmas card – even though she was so sick and she was all alone at home. Those cards meant a lot to her.

Thank you for being that kind person who never judged anyone or gossiped about other moms or co-workers. That kind of caring and silent love for others is what drew everyone to you.

I want to tell you that I’ll watch your boys grow up and that they’ll be successful and strong, just like you. My heart is aching for your family. I want to thank you for making me a better person – just by knowing you. I want to thank you for being a friend and sharing your love with so many people.

Sincerely,

Monica Witt