Dearest Karin,how grateful I am for our relationship. We went on an amazing inner healing journey and you steered our 'ship'. You were an Olympian in your resolve and your effort. And we laughed and enjoyed our time together even when the seas got choppy. My gratitude and love are with you as you travel onwards into the light.

Karin was a shining star. Thank you for your generous and gentle gifts of presence. We'll miss you.

We'll both miss her very much.

"Gracious Spirit, receive Karin into the arms of love and may she know the profound gift that she has been to me and to many others." As a facilitator in the course Living From the Heart, I want to express how courageously and sensitively and openly Karin was present to the retreat in the fall. We will all miss her and will honour her presence.

Jeff Imbach, SoulStream

It's difficult right now to find anything more than tears but, I do recall a very special day with Karin many years ago. She and I often hiked together all throughout B.C. One day we hiked up to the Lynn Creek upper headwaters. Many miles up near the main peaks at the head of the valley we met a young man who turned out to be from Hamburg! We had a great and beautiful trip as always. The really fun part was listening to these two kids chatting in German and laughing all the 10-12km back to my truck! Frequently Karin would laugh and tell me things like "Dennis, he and I learned tall ship sailing together in Hamburg years ago! Isn't that funny that we meet here?" I chuckled and enjoyed their chatter - it was one of those joyful special days. Soon we will all be able to remember only the fun things and happy memories of our dear sister gone to be with the Lord Jesus. In that place God has promised "..for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you (Karin) will go out and leap like calves released from the stall." Karin is now joyful and healthy as never before!

I came to bible Study hoping to see Karin and i found she had slipped away and it broke my heart---she was such a joy to us and kept us on course and cheerfully reined us in when we wandered away from the reading for the day.What a disciplined sweetheart and happy singer and dancer the day she brought her African disk a few weeks ago--we will all miss her and know our lives have been so much richer having been with her --I know we will meet again--with great joy and dancing--we love you Karin

Dearest Karin, I feel blessed for knowing you, for walking with you, for experiencing your love of life, seeing always the beauty, embracing the positive and standing firm in how you wanted to live your life.

This is not goodbye my friend, for I know I may call on you in those difficult times as you see the clearer picture now of all that is.

I hold you in my heart…Your image slowly fades and an amazing butterfly appears physically transformed…Truly flying free in my divine place to be…..

I first heard Karin's voice when she sang for our great friend Bob Enagonio. It was a song about love of mountains which Karin, Bob and I all shared. I met Karin at the service for Bob and became her(and Jacob's) close friend very quickly. We shared some good trips to the mountains, climbing, skiing, hiking boating and enjoying the beauty of nature. When she got sick I was staying in Canmore making gizmos and spent a lot of time with her. I should have such a great attitude on life as her. SHe was a good friend and a person who made me want to be a better person. I am very sad that we do not have her with us. She added a lot...

Karen, I miss you already. You have been a real inspiration to me; your strength, positive beauty, your beautiful singing, your strong faith in God, your acceptance of daily changes in your life... I have many good memories of Karen that make me smile, but one in particular is Karen, with Jacob, doing a sun dance one very cold morning, hoping for the sun to shine after a frosty night out in the mountains. I'm sure Karen is now dancing and singing again.

It makes a difference whether someone is just not there anymore, or whether we are missing, but both hurts.
I have lighted a candle, it burns and I think of you. You should know that we are here in thoughts with you.
Period of mourning is pain but also smile when you come across pleasant memories. There are so many!
Jake, I wish you all strength for the coming hard times and that you will find the peace that you need.

Karin, ich hoffe es geht Dir gut, da wo Du jetzt bist!
Ich denk an Dich!

Chris, Karin´s cousin.

Von einem geliebten Menschen wird immer etwas in unserem Herzen zurück bleiben; etwas von seinen Träumen, von seiner Hoffnung, von seinem Leben, von seiner Liebe. Auch du, Karin, wirst stets in unseren Herzen bleiben.

We wish to share our appreciation for Karin. Karin's stories sharing her journey through the past year was incredible for reminding us of the importance of embracing life. We have been in awe of her courage in face of everything. She always had a smile. We have taken this time since learning about Karin to celebrate what we do have. Also, our thoughts today are with our friend Jacob and want him to know we are thinking of him at this time too.

Dear Karin, I will always remember you; your wonderful smile and amazing strength. The way you lived your life is an inspiration to us all. I have a book which has a poem for each day of the year. I would like to share the poem for February 17. It was written by Christina Rossetti.
Up-Hill


Does the road wind up-hill all the way?
Yes, to the the very end.
Will the day's journey take the whole day long?
From morn to night, my friend.

But is there for the night a resting-place?
A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.
May not the darkness hide it from my face?
You cannot miss that inn.

Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?
Those who have gone before.
Then must I knock, or call when just in sight?
They will not keep you standing at that door.

Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?
Of labour you shall find the sum.
Will there be beds for me and all who seek?
Yea, beds for all who come.

-------------------------------------------------

May you rest peacefully, dear Karin.

There are so many times when I would be off skiing in the winter, or hiking in the summer, and there they would be - Jake and Karin. Always with smiles, always with chats, always great company. Conversations with Karin would flitter about the beauty around us, the experience of the moment, sometimes deeper issues, and of course discussions of her illness (invariably upbeat). I can't help but smile when I think of her.

Karin will always be very special to me and to all Bow Valley residents for her appreciation of the natural environment, and for all her work in conservation. We will miss Karin very much, but she lives on in the legacy that she left us.

A warm embrace to all who miss her.Comforted to know she's hiking and skiing again. Sending much love to her family and friends.

Dear Karin,
We have been feeling blessed to meet you and Jacob. Although we had a limited number of chances to see you in person, each time was wonderful and meaningful time. It was at Peyto hut that we met you first time. Your stay with us in Japan was another great memory. We were so surprised and felt happy to find that you had married with Jacob, the person that we met at Bow hut two days before we met you. Emiko was so happy to see you again and spent lovely days with you last summer. We will remember your singing voice when we walk in quiet woods. You will be in our mind forever.

I was a schoolfriend of Karin and we stayed in contact over 37 years. Thank you for all that years in friendship.
Immer wenn wir von Dir erzählen fallen Sonennstrahlen in unsere Seelen.
Unsere Herzen halten Dich umfangen, so als wärst Du nie gegangen, doch wir vermissen Dich so sehr.

Look at this shining star—our valentine. Karin has planted the seeds of love and compassion in our hearts; continues to teach us so much about acceptance; lights the candle of inner strength, and reminds us to care for others and this place we call home. We can still hear Karin's fierce joy despite the obstacles. Karin, we are together, and are so reminded of you when the gentle breeze sprinkles that veil of snow upon our face, or the new moon hangs so lazily in the star studded sky. We love you.

I first met Karen at the first David Hatfield Vocal Improvisation Workshop in Canmore several years ago. I will never forget how she jumped in with both feet, and with both lungs! Willing to take chances, willing to be exposed, willing to take the risk that something wonderful could happen. She brought that same enthusiasm and love of music and life to the Valley Winds Choir. We will miss her so much.

I am at a loss for words to describe my feelings of sympathy, sorrow, and yes, even anger for the loss, much too soon, of someone so beautiful as Karin. Perhaps this poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay says it best for me:

Dirge without Music

I am not resigned to the shutting away of loving hearts in the hard ground.
So it is, and so it will be, for so it has been, time out of mind:
Into the darkness they go, the wise and the lovely. Crowned
With lilies and with laurel they go; but I am not resigned.

Lovers and thinkers, into the earth with you.
Be one with the dull, the indiscriminate dust.
A fragment of what you felt, of what you knew,
A formula, a phrase remains, --- but the best is lost.

The answers quick & keen, the honest look, the laughter, the love,
They are gone. They have gone to feed the roses. Elegant and curled
Is the blossom. Fragrant is the blossom. I know. But I do not approve.
More precious was the light in your eyes than all the roses in the world.

Down, down, down into the darkness of the grave
Gently they go, the beautiful, the tender, the kind;
Quietly they go, the intelligent, the witty, the brave.
I know. But I do not approve. And I am not resigned.

It was an honor and privilege to share a room together with Karin at the Course "Living From the Heart"in October. We had a week of sharing life. Her journey was so real and in this vulnerable time she had such courage and even joy. One precious memory was how she would sing in the room each evening. Sometimes lullabies in German which were my favorite.
May Gods peace reign in the hearts of those she loved. She led the way.

Thank you Karin for teaching me how to sing Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht. It was such a pleasure to sing this traditional German Christmas carol with you at church. Thank you Karin for teaching me how to sing out with joy in the face of adversity.

Dear Karin,
I only met you twice. The last I saw you, you had more energy than any teen I know. You were intent on gathering all your affirmations and were planning your next adventure to the mountains. Thank you for your energy. I do believe in eternal life and love and pray your loved ones receive the strength available to them from your love and the love from God.
I am grateful for Phylis Goldsmith for introducing me to you. I would say rest in peace, but I know you are soaring somewhere at the moment and most likely not resting.
~ Georgélaine

Dear Karin,
Your lust for life was enviable! I will try to live up to it in your memory.
Lay a flower in the snow.

Being a bad to middling cook, I could always count on Karin for inspiration. When we lived together the last time (I can’t remember the exact date but she would have), I made her a deal. Free rent in exchange for food. Karin was still working for Alberta Microelectronics in Calgary and Jacob was in Canmore. She made up the grocery list early in the week so I would have all the ingredients and even made me food to last through the week-end.

Today, I’m going through the recipes Karin gave me, many with her notes on the side. Carrot-butternut soup with fresh coriander is “excellent!” Ginger beef stir-fry with pasta is “Jake’s favourite. Spicy (with a) nice garlic/ginger combination.” Grilled salmon quesadillas with cucumber salsa can be broiled for five minutes instead of grilled. Pollo guisado works well with chicken thighs. Tagine Marrakech is “superb!”

Most recipes were things I sampled on my visits to Canmore and raved about. “If only I could cook like you,” I lamented….Karin told me that I could, as she convinced me of many other things: that life was delicious, that life was to be savoured. Karin was one of the most positive, honest, courageous, curious and caring people I have had the honour of calling friend.

Karin and I weathered a rock fall in Chicadee Valley, a ten hour bushwhack to find the pass to Beatty Lake, waves that threatened to tip our kayak on Sugar Lake.

I don’t know if this is a picture I have of her, or just one in my mind. It is a brilliant summer day. Karin is ahead of me, climbing up a scree slope heading for the pass. I am behind doing my best to follow her path.

Goodbye, my dear friend. I love you.


February 22, 2010

I find words to be difficult, and so I rely instead on the words of another, Karen Barker, in a previous post.

"This is not goodbye my friend, for I know I may call on you in those difficult times as you see the clearer picture now of all that is."

I pray that Karin's continuing journey is pleasant and full of bliss. Her strength and bravery and that of her husband, family and close friends, has been a gift to us all.I shall lay flowers and sing a song at the pass up by Minnewanka.

Karin, I can only picture you smiling, always positive, and it makes me smile too. Thank you for lighting my life with your joyful enthusiasm for all you enjoy.

In every obstacle, it has been said, there is opportunity and in facing cancer, Karin Herrero squeezed out every conceivable ounce possible. I first came to know Karin when she called to thank me for writing a book about survivorship. For most of the next two years, we made contact on a regular basis to discuss her progress and to stategize about next-steps. In my capacity as a Climb Back from Cancer Coach and fellow survivor I found her level of commitment to her goal to be immeasurable. She did everything -- and I do mean everything -- in her power to maximize her chances of surviving cancer and thriving beyond it. She increased her degree of spirituality, eliminated as many forms of negativity from her life as humanly possible, changed her diet, modified her exercise regimen, read every book she could, followed every path and went down every road. For her, extracting every ounce of life out of the time she had left was not only a passion, it was her complete and total mission. I have had the great good fortune of working with many survivors but I can say with certainty that no one was as committed to life, and improving her life, as Karin was. And, she did.

Now, she is no longer with us but a very big part of her will always stay with me, and with all of us. It is that powerful piece that says that we really can live life to the absolute fullest and it's best that we start doing it today rather than tomorrow because tomorrow may never come. I have never seen a person embrace life with a greater zeal, focus or intensity. Gandhi once said that "Total effort is total victory." If that is the measure of Karin's life, indeed of any of our lives, then we can all be victorious. That is the gift she left for me and for all of us.

I am in the early stages of grieving over Karin's death and honoring and celebrating her life. She was a loving, caring force, of and for nature, family and friends. I feel her being within me and through my son Jacob, Karin's husband, through her favorite music (so beautiful) and through those who knew and loved her. While her body could no longer be a home for her spirit she will live on in memory through family and friends, along mountain paths she rejoiced in, and in the celebration of life brought by springtime and flowers. She was of the earth and also strongly of the great spiritual power of the vast universe. One way to honor her life is by celebrating ours minute by minute by mindful yet joyous living. She would smile to discover how much she contributes to our lives.

Steve Herrero, Karin's friend and father-in-law
19 Feb. 2010

I skied a lovely loop around the Nordic Centre in the sunshine this afternoon, with Karin constantly in my mind. The last time I saw her was about a month ago at the Canmore Hospital, feisty as usual, and as always more concerned about my health than her own. As we said good-bye that day, she was facing out the hospital window, framed by the sunshine, stretching. That's how I will always remember Karin. You fought so hard, and will be greatly missed. Your spirit shines on....Much love to Jake, Ulli, Steve, Linda, and all the rest of Karin's family.

It was a pleasure to sing with Karin and others at Canmore Hospital's extended care residents. She was always cheerful and enthusiastic. Jake, you have my deepest sympathy in your loss.

Karin, we'll miss your greatly. Your love of the land was infectious and lives on in the people who loved you, as will your memory. We're happy you're finally at peace, where there is no anxiety and no pain. Jacob, Ulli and family, you have our love and admiration, and our thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.

I met Karin last October at the "Living from the Heart" program at Kingsfold. One of the things I really admired and will remember about Karin was her determination to live life to the full while living in the shadow of death. The way she continued to pursue her passions in spite of bodily limitations was quite an insiration. When we meet in the spring her presence in our group will be missed. May God be with you as you mourn her loss.

We remember Karin out in the woods, on the ski trails, and trundling down a little-used trail with Jacob at the back of Murtle Lake in Wells Gray Park, BC. We had our young boy with us all those times and what we were struck with was how similar Karin's expressions were to his - enjoying the experience fully, grounded in the moment, in joyous awe. Our condolences to the entire family, especially Jacob.

Our serendipitous encounters were always a delight. I am grateful for the spirit that brought us together.

Karin was a choir member of Valley Winds Music Association and she was one of the most positive people I knew even when things got bad. She fought the good fight and God called her home. We at Valley Winds Choir will miss her very much. My heart goes out to her husband, sister and family members. Her choir members will sing their sister into God's arms.

Dearest Karin,
May peace be yours.
Much love,
Linda & Extended Wiggins Family

What a wonderful photo of Karin embracing life. That's how I will remember her. I am so saddened to hear of her passing and want to express my deepest condolences to Jacob and Ulli , Gary and the children , her parents and brothers on the loss of such an amazing partner, sister, aunt and daughter. Much love to you all.

I did not have the privilege of knowing Karen personally, but I knew of her tremendous survivorship journey through a fellow mountaineer. I am greatly touched by her story, as I am a three-time cancer caregiver. I lost my father to leukemia in 1999, my sister-in-law to liver cancer in 2003, and ... most recently, my mother to lung/liver cancer on Feb 15, 2010. Each of my parents passed on in my arms. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to offer them my love, and solid dedication to their care. Our lives are indeed fragile.

As a participant in the 2008 Terry Fox run, I was deeply moved by Karin's address to the runners before the race. She inspired me with her courage and her hope. She will be missed.

Dear Jacob and Family, Our family sends you love and space for the depth of grief and also the expressions of joy and remembrance that you will be feeling in these days and into the future. Karin desire to continue to learn about our beautiful world inspired me repeatly. What a fine fine woman!! Love, Julia, Dustin, Roche and Tenaya Lynx

Karin's tireless spiritual journey has been an inspiration to me, among many others. May this next chapter be filled with peace, Dear Karin. Jacob, loyal and sturdy companion, may you find peace in hers. Namaste

She stood there with a wide, wide smile,
And opened her heart just as wide.
We talked as friends, her face just glowed,
Love and caring from her flowed.
When we met it always made our day.
A memory we'll long keep.
Karin was a very special person,
With whom it was a joy to meet.

Karin I will miss meeting you on the street and saying - uncertainly....Ulli....Karin...? I will miss your smile. But go now and don't look back.

Karin you will truly be missed. The world is a lesser place without you. My daughters have such fond memories of you and your kindness towards them, especially your singing. I hope you have found a better place.

Oh Jake....I'm so very sorry to hear this sad news. My thoughts are very much with you at this time.

Jake, our deepest sympathies go out to you. We are grateful to have known Karin. We will always remeber Karin's talent at growing fresh vegetables in her backyard. A true feat in Canmore.

Karin, your passion for life and olympian strength over many challenging years are an inspiration. I won't forget our last chat in the middle of Quarry Lake. Jake, my thoughts are with you.

I just heard and am so sorry. Words are never enough to express the loss of such a vibrant life. Danke Karen fuer das Stueck Weg, dass wir zusammen gegangen sind.

Dear Karin, I skied with you in the brilliant morning sun rise the day after your passing. . You walked so gently and softly on this earth. You taught us the importance of working hard towards a healthy body, mind and Spirit. The first Evensong service we did together brought a close connection for me to you.
I enjoyed the hikes we did and especially how much you enjoyed and relished every aspect of our precious earth. The hike that I did with you and Jacob in the fall amongst the aspen and Douglas Fir are etched in my memory.Jacob the care and LOVE that you showed to Karin during her illness was absolutley beautiful and perfectly done!!
Karin I know that you are enjoying life to the absolute FULL. Jacob, Ulli, Steve and Linda, I send to you my love.

Karin's courage and spirit for life will continue to resonate in us, as will yours Jake. We are thinking of you and will be. Much love to you, and to Steve and Linda, Ulli and family, and to Karin's parents and brothers.

I received Jake's lovely email about Karin while in California for work (thank you Linda). She has been in my thoughts and heart since that time (along with thoughts for Jake, Linda, Steve & Ulli). I took Jake's advice and spent a day along the Big Sur coastline, singing to the waves and imagining how much Jake and Karin would love this place. She touched me deeply when I heard her speak at the Terry Fox Run. I think of life and loving life when I remember her.

Jake -- I am so very sorry for your loss. I only knew Karin peripherally but her journey and courage were so inspiring and I was so sure she would triumph. My thoughts are with you.

I met Karin many years ago at the swimming pool. We would chat as we did our early morning workouts and I looked forward to seeing her there. I moved away a couple of years ago but ran into Karin at the 2008 folk festival where she told me her cancer had returned. I will admire Karin for her inner strength & determination. And my heart goes out to her family for their loss. We will all miss Karin.

I can't say that I knew Karin, but I bumped into her around town, you know how it is in a small town like Canmore: at the library, at the swimming pool, at the cancer run... we would exchange some friendly words and a smile. I realize now that I had not bumped into her for a while... for reasons that are clear now. I am sorry that she has left this earth which she loved well. May she rest in peace, and may the glow of her gentle spirit warm us all into the future.

Jacob and Uli,
I'm so sorry to learn of Karin's passing. She was so strong and positive and had so much hope. I'm sure she will be an inspiration to anyone fighting cancer. I know she will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.

I will always remember Karin for her love of the outdoors. Regardless of the weather or difficulty of the trail she always had a smile on her face and was an inspiration to all of her companions accompanying her on that day’s backcountry ski or hiking trip. For me she exemplified what it was to live for the moment. Karin is dearly missed by all who enjoyed her friendship on the trails.

The gift Karin gave me was her spiritual faith,
her knowing of spirit. She taught me to trust and have faith in the Divine just from our little talks we had. In her passing I realized something new and more of spirit and I am so greatful to have known her.

Karin will always have a special place in my heart. She was kind and generous, and she taught me how important it was to be grounded. I will miss her until such time as we meet again in the Wherever. Peace, j.

I met Karin through early morning lap swimming at the Canmore pool. At first I thought she was Ulli, since I didn’t know that a twin, Karin, even existed. For several years, we’d see each other lap swimming, 3-4 times a week, nearly all year-round. She was a fixture at the pool, entirely dedicated and determined to improve her swimming and stay fit. The pool is the only place we ever ran into each other. I enjoyed her companionship at the pool, our conversations at the wall, resting and chatting, always too long, before Karin would issue us both off with a... “well, we had better finish our workouts” ! One time we coincided at the pool after long absences, and she told me that her cancer had come back, but she was fighting it. She knew what she wanted to do and how to handle it. Strong and determined, to do all she was possible of doing to be strong, healthy and keep a positive outlook. You fought a hard battle Karin. You are and will remain a true inspiration. You will be dearly missed by all.

My warmest sympathies to Jake, Ulli, Steve and Linda, and all of your loving families

At the age of 10 Karin and Ulli (my cousin's twins) amazed me with their fascination and knowledge of the American West, much of which they had gleaned from Jack London's writings: "The Call of the Wild", "White Fang", and others; and these enthusiastic kids assured me, they would go to America when they grew up. Really!? -- But they did! They followed the "Call of the Wild", made lives for themselves in the Pacific North West and explored and relished earth's beauty in the wildernesses all throughout Canada and Alaska. Sadly, for Karin the ultimate call to a yet unknown "Wild" in other spheres took you away-- and far too early!! You walked your final path on earth with determination and courage. You are an inspiration!
Dear Karin, may peace, light and beauty greet and surround you on the other side!

Karen, your smile, your voice, your laughter, your cooking, your passion for life, for gardening, for observing, your genuine concern for others and your committment to your dreams are vibrations of peace permanently enscribed in my memory. Thank you for touching me and teaching me and blessing me with your time and care.

We only met Karin once but she immediately felt like an old friend as we welcomed her and Jacob in our home. Doug and I both felt Jake had truly met his soul mate--someone who matched his enthusiasm and love of travel, adventure and the exquisiteness of nature. Over the last twelve years we enjoyed keeping in touch with letters and email. We are so very saddened to hear of her passing and our hearts go out to you Jake and all those who loved her. I have a poem that was given to me when a loved one died and I think Karin would have liked it. It is a Native American Prayer. It goes:
I give you this one thought to keep--
I am with you still--I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone--
I am with you still, in each new dawn.

I fondly remember many conversations with Karin on my front porch over the past few years as she picked up her bin of organic produce. Although we began as relative strangers, I quickly grew to appreciate Karin's sense of humour and zest for life, and her strength and openness about her health challenges. It is clear Karin touched many lives. My thoughts are with Karin's family.

Karin my heart breaks today as I find that you have left us. A courageous and kind soul. I Thank-you for letting me get to know such a wonderful Lady! You gave me a little miracle to share - Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other's eyes for an instant? - Henry David Thoreau
May you continue doing Bootcamps in your special place! I will miss you.

Dearest Karin,
You have inspired so many people with your resolute, amazing ability to LIVE every single moment!
Our hearts go out to all who loved her.

Dear Karin,
You will forever inspire me, first, to find challenge and beauty in the mountains of the land, and last, to find challenge and beauty in the mountains of the heart. For this gift I can't thank you enough.
Go well on your journey Karin. I will carry your beautiful spirit and song with me on mine. I love you and will miss you always.

Lydia

Karin,
Thank you for your radient energy, strength and thoughtfulness in sharing your journey
with love and light

I love to think of all you are exploring now. So much that is beyond even the best you discovered in your explorations down here. I know you can't wait to give us all a guided tour. I look forward to seeing you again, dear one. Meanwhile, we miss you.

"Leise zieht durch mein Gemüt liebliches Geläute. Klinge kleines Frühlingslied, kling hinaus ins Weite.

Zieh hinaus bis an das Haus, wo die Veilchen spriessen. Wenn Du eine Rose schaust, sag ich lass sie grüßen."

Dieses Lied, Text von Heinrich Heine, Musik von Felix Mendelsohn-Bartholdy haben Karin und ich Anfang Februar über das Transatlantik-Kabel ausgetauscht. Meine herzlich geliebte Sänger-Freundin wollte es so gerne lernen.

Nun wird jedes Veilchen, jede Rose mich an unsere Seelenverbindung und an das letzte persönliche Gespräch erinnern.

Unsere aussergewöhnlichen Begegnungen in Grönland, in Canada, in Bayern, immer geprägt von besonderer Lebens-, Natur- und Abenteuerfreude und begleitet von Liedern aus aller Welt, sind nun ein großer Schatz der Erinnerung. Wie wunderbar diesen Schatz zu besitzen! Und ich werde ihn hüten und pflegen in liebevoller Erinnerung an unsere so tapfere und lebensfrohe Karin. "Heilung durch Freude" - dieses selbstgewählte Motto hat mich sehr beeindruckt - ich war überzeugt, sie schafft das!

Lieber Jakob, do you remember?
Wir lieben die Stürme, die brausenden Wogen, der eiskalten Winde rauhes Gesicht....
Five kayaks are floating through deep freezing ozean.....

heijo, heijo, heijo heijo heijoho, hejo, heijoho, heijo

So thankful for all the wonderful experiences, I´ll be with you in grief and send over a dear and thoughtful hug.

Karin, brave and strong in such a slight frame, you were given such daunting circumstances in your life. Yet you chose to sing and search for the light through it all. I have been looking through my photos of trips we shared and I always see that bright, shining smile as you savoured it all. A light has gone from our world. I loved you Karin and am heartbroken that you are gone. Jacob and Ulie, she loved you both dearly, take care of yourselves through this difficult time.

Karin had such a positive attitude on life and she fought very hard for the things she believed in. Her inner strength and her love for the outdoors were a positive influence on everyone she met. Karin had a strong inner core and tried hard to present a positive spin on everything relating to her illness.
Travel on in peace ,Karin knowing that your life made a difference to those you encountered. I will miss you. Jacob I know you took the best care of her, and I feel she loved you as much as you loved her.

We have known Karin for more then 20 years, mostly through contact with Ulli, from before the time they met their partners. Although we have never been able to tell the two apart, once you start talking, you know Karin was very much her own person: strong in her opinions, positive in her outlook to life and always planning her next adventure! We are sorry to see her go, but are greatful at the same time that she went peacefully with the knowledge she lived life to the fullest!
Our last memeories were skiing with her in the Lake Louise Loppet a few years ago. Skiing eventhough she knew her cancer had recurred. How brave and positive!
We will miss you Karin........

I always loved running into Karen. She was always so friendly and sweet. She really wanted to know how things were going and was happy to share what was going on in her life. She always made me want to give her a big hug. I'll miss her. Our thoughts are with you Jake.

Karin, I miss bumping into you along Cougar Creek and talk about healthy foods....I am sorry now that I never wrote any of your faboulous recipe down.

Menschenleben sind wie Blaetter,
die lautlos fallen. Man kann sie nicht aufhalten auf Ihrem Weg.
All unsere Liebe vermag sie nicht zu halten.

Aufrichtige Anteilnahme

Pia Kocher

Dear Jake, I received your beautiful e-mail about Karin's passing while in Mexico with my children... at an internet cafe. Tears flowed so uncontrollably as I was overwhelmed by so many emotions at the same time - sadness and regret for not having connected with Karin the week before we left, and joy at the depth and beauty of your love for her. I had the strong desire to see you and Karin before our trip (even to invite you along with my airmiles) and phoned a few days before her passing but it was busy and I did not persevere as I now wished I had... planning to call as soon as I got home...such a lesson in following my heart's call in the moment.
My children have not seen me grieve much I realized --- as I wept they tried desperately to stop my tears.. Solana held both of my hands with hers and looked up at me with great sincerity , "Think of the good things mama. Remember how delicious those carrots from her garden were? Member mama?" I explained to them that I had a certain amount of tears for Karin...I wasn't sure how many or how or when they would come out but that it was really important that I got them all out....they seemed to embrace the tears after that...
Diego reminded me later on that day of the last time we saw Karin. I was so grateful for this memory. "She sang us a song when we were driving her home from church...it was about a "Schmetterling" ...remember that mama?" Ahhh yes, the "Schmetterling"(butterfly) ... how perfect as there she was in her last moments before unfurling from life's cocoon... in reflecting, the feeling of a peaceful free butterfly was starting to infuse her presence ...
I do not remember the words or even the tune of that song but I do remember the light that shone out of Karin's eyes as she sang that song... eyes sometimes open, sometimes closed, and how she held my children, spell bound in wonder as their whole beings listened while she sang. This memory has given me much peace ... she shared of herself and her love of life so freely.
Karin, your generosity of spirit, your gift of so wholeheartedly, lovingly and openly inviting us into your life and on your journey .... it has nourished myself and my family and will stay with us forever. I think of the beautiful apple tree poem you sent me and can see you sitting under that tree now...I believe I hear you singing....

We sure miss you Karin.
Jake, please know we are here.
Love, Monika, Brent, Diego, Solana and Meadow

Karin has left behind a thousand moments that will live in our hearts forever.

Dear Friends and Family,

We are sending this message of sincere sympathy from the Yukon. We used to be part of the Hostelling group years ago, especially in the winter. Karin had an amazing zest for life! I'll always remember her photos of her trip to Tibet.

Love,

Bern Johnson & Janet Helton Johnson

I was in Vancouver with my daughter nathalie when I heard the passing of Karin . we were both so sadden by the news . such a beautiful person , so inspiring by her strength and courage ! Karin , my thoughts were with you this morning as I glided away on my skis through this new fresh snow , no tracks , nobody around , listening to the silence . one of those rare special skiing . it was for you , Karin .
my thoughts are also for you , Jacob, you who has to live with those so difficult times . receive my warmest sympathies and love . sympathies also to your family and Karin family .
Mireille Delesalle

I knew Karin through Ralph Connor church, Evensong actually and I had the privilege to talk with her several times in the Fall of 2009 and January 2010 before we left on a trip.
She was very brave, an inspiration. We did not know at the time she was at the end of her journey.
She was so pleased when the province decided to fund the medications she was hoping would work for her. She called it a miracle.
I am thinking of all of you, her family, in these difficult weeks.

To Jake, Ulli and family - So sorry to hear the sad news - my thoughts are with you.

Gleich bei meiner ersten Begegnung mit Karin habe ich sie mit ihrer liebenswerten und fröhlichen, offenen Art ins Herz geschlossen. Besonders beeindruckt war ich von der Energie und Ausdauer, mit der Karin ihre vielfältigen sportlichen Aktivitäten betrieben hat und dann auch gegen ihre Krankheit gekämpft hat.
Ich wünsche Euch, Jacob und Uli mit Familie, viel Kraft in dieser schweren Zeit.

Dear Karin,
From the poetic words of Ruckert:
"Du bist di ruh, der friede mild"
"Thou art repose, art peaceful rest"
Peaceful blessings!
Cathy Robinson

I knew Karin well before her first bout with cancer. Her strength in overcoming that illness was inspiring. We enjoyed many wonderful ski trips since then. At the recent "Cookie Race" I was passing Ulli near Elk Pass when I felt the presence of Karin. I won't tell you who Karin was cheering for! I know for me I expect to have many moments in the future when Karin will be remembered. Whether it is skiing, hiking, singing in a choir, listening to a song or praying may Karin be with us.

Karin, We know that your spirit will always refresh these mountain valleys. We will miss you, and send our love to Jake and your family.
We also send the following poem by Thich Nhat Hanh:
Clouds softly pillow the mountain peak.
The breeze is fragrant with tea blossoms.
The joy of meditation remains unshakable.
The forest offers floral perfumes.
One morning we awaken,
fog wrapped around the roof.
With fresh laughter, we bid farewell.
The musical clamour of birds
sends us back on the ten thousand paths,
to watch a dream as generous as the sea.
A flicker of fire from the familiar stove
warms the evening shadows as they fall.
…
My confidence intact,
I bid farewell with a peaceful heart.
The affairs of this world are merely a dream.
Don’t forget that days and months race by
As quickly as a young horse.
The stream of birth and death dissolves,
but our friendship never disappears.

I first knew Karen in the Hostel Group days of the 1980's, she shared with us a mutual passion for the mountains and the world around us. My thoughts are with you all on this special day of memories.

Sometimes in life a special moment is occurring and your brain snaps a message "pay attention, this is important" This happened for me in late January when Karin & myself chose the same evening to visit the choir and leave early. Walking slowly out together we discussed challenges and the inevitable outcome. Our somber discourse lead us to face each other, look deep, then silently hug before departing. I will never forget and am so thankful for having Karin enter my life. As you all gather today to remember and sing, I'll sit quietly here beside the Fraser River watching the ebb and flow and the eagles soar.

A POEM FOR KARIN

It was a blessing to know you
The little time I did ...
We prayed for months
that God would grant you more years
While others suffered with you we prayed
that your health would be restored
Instead God set you free
to find the true peace
you were seeking
and allowed us the freedom too
to find ours
You fell asleep peacefully
into a world
where we could let it be
and sing your praises.

Karen Parmiter
Feb 17, 2010

To Karin's family and close friends,
I am so sorry that you have lost Karin. The last time I saw her was when she visited at my place on her way to a northern river trip a few years ago. I had a walk out on a big sunny lake today in her honour, and said farewell. It seems to me she lived her life well. I will take inspiration from that. Jacob - strength and love for the continuation of your journey.

Jacob, I am so sorry. I will do as Karin asked and always picture her happy and healthy. Her strong faith and courage are an inspiration to all who knew her. I did have a swim for her, in the blue pacific, and was in a very spiritual place the day of her memorial.

Jacob, your memorial service for Karan was a blessing, not only for her life, but for all who were privileged to be there with you and the family.To be part of the musical offering was special for me. Her smiling face and inner strength will remain with me. God bless you.

Karin's wonderful spirit, courage and love of the world and all its treasures will be an inspiration for all she has left. My sympathy to you Jacob in the loss of one who shared so much love, joy and adventure with you. To Karin's family and the Herrero family, you will miss her so, but her sweet voice will always sing in your hearts.

Wenn deine Nacht am tiefsten ist, legt Gott seinen Traum vom blühenden Garten in dich. Wenn deine Nacht am dunkelsten ist, legt Gott den Beginn vom hellen Tag in dich. Wenn deine Nacht unendlich scheint, legt Gott seinen Arm bergend und schützend um dich. Ja, in Gottes Armen bist du nun geborgen und darfst ausruhen von der vielen Mühsal, die du so tapfer getragen hast. Als wir uns 1986 in Vancouver das erste Mal begegneten, wurden wir Freunde fürs Leben. Gott schenkte uns die Gnade, dass wir uns nicht mehr aus den Augen verloren und so viele Freuden, aber auch leidvolle Stunden miteinander teilen durften. Danke von ganzem Herzen, dass du und deine liebe Schwester Uli im Jahre 1996 unsere Trauzeugen ward und du unsere Hochzeit damals in deinen schweren Stunden so liebevoll organisiert hast. Damals durften wir auch deinen lieben Mann Jacob sowie deine Eltern kennen und schätzen lernen, denen unser ganzes Mitgefühl gilt. Du warst ein wundervoller Mensch und Freund, wie man sie auf dieser Erde selten wandern sieht. Adieu und auf Wiedersehen in der ewigen Heimat!

Dear Jacob and Herrero Family,
We are so sad to receive news of Karin's passing. We did not know her well but are fortunate to have been family friends for many decades!
We loved going through Karin's thoughtful blog and videos! Thank you for making such an effort for all to enjoy.

At a time like this, there is a sorrow for which no heart can ever be prepared. Please know that you have the support and care of so many who keep you close in thought, and wish you comfort and peace.

My favourite rememberance of Karen is with her, Ulli and friends dragging this old fart up Mount Brazeau.
It's hard to believe that it was only December that we were skiing on the 1A at Lake Louise.
Thanks for the everlasting inspiration and memories.

Jacob and TRAFx staff:

I'm so very sorry to hear of the passing of Karin. While I only met her once, I often had occassion to speak with her. It was obvious that she carried a brilliant spirit, and treasured her work, family and recreaton. I pray that you can persist through this time of loss, and that her time with you will always be cherished.

My condolences,

Dave Adamoski