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Margaux Theriault posted a condolence
Sunday, November 18, 2018
I have been thinking of Kirsten so much over the past several days. We talked almost every day at work for the year we both shared at ITDE. Those memories are hard because she shared so much about her illness and was genuinely scared and frustrated, at one point sobbing that she didn't want to die because she would miss Porter and Kate growing up. She was angry with the doctors. That memory is very tough to share, and to have replaying in my mind, but it also helps me find some comfort in knowing there is now an end to all her suffering. Through everything she was going through she never stopped telling me she loved me, that she was proud of me, that she admired me. She told me that so often while i first found my footing as a single parent. On breaks at work we shared all about the men throughout our lives and she was very funny. She told me she would kill any man who hurt me. She had such a strong, witty, and caring personality.
I remember Michelle telling me how my sister babysat all 4 kids and made the boys stay in their rooms, and only Kirsten could hang out with Danielle and watch TV, like the princess that she was. Kirsten was the most adorable, tiny child. When she was a little older she really wanted to hang out with Lizzy, and I was the only one old enough to drive. Liz was shy so I suggested I could drive us all somewhere. Kirsten was shy back then, too, and nervous around Lizzy because Liz was older, hung out with my older friends and is beautiful. We had a good time and Liz and I had talked about our responsibility to not bring her around guys my age and to be safe, but still give her a good time, so we took her to the mall, walked around, laughed and talked. We took our responsibility seriously. She was so young and I could empathize with that feeling of wanting to hang out with someone older, someone who seems to be more confident and fun. As teens, I remember being in awe of the way she seemed so protected by her 3 brothers when we all went out one time, and how they all knew the same people, something that seemed pretty wonderful to me. As she grew up, she battled with several things I can relate all too well to, but this illness was something bigger than us all. It's hard to believe she was the youngest and smallest of the cousins because she was so damn tough at the end. Thank God she had her mother and father to accompany her to appointments, help her make decisions and cry with her. She knew she was loved. She knew her brother and his wife were proud of her strength, that her father was sad, that her mom was doing everything she could to make it a little less stressful and uncomfortable to be sick, and that they all loved her. One day she told me of each person who cried for her. For me, it was like 'Of course your parents and uncle and best friend are shedding tears!' but for her, i think she was surprised that people were emotional on her account. I think it felt comforting for her to know she wasnt the only one full of fear and sadness, that she was valued and that her loved ones could empathize with her in that way, that they understood this was serious, that her pain was validated. I wanted to cry for her in that moment because I thought it may help us connect, but I couldn't. If only she could see me now.
After that experience I reached out to other cousins to explain how serious this was, how she needed even just the offer of support, the gesture. Everyone responded and reached out to her. Unfortunately, she was too sick to participate with anyone too much, but I hope it helped in some small way to know everyone was thinking of her and sending her love and praying for relief. We have a good, strong family and it's missing a piece now. We all love her so much, which is evident by yesterday's service.
I'll miss you my smallest cousin. We had so much left to talk about. May you rest peacefully. I love you so very much Kirsten.
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L Flores posted a condolence
Saturday, November 17, 2018
I can only imagine the devastation your family must be experiencing. I am so sorry about the loss of Kristen. Death leaves a heartache that only Almighty God can heal. "He heals the brokenhearted; He binds up their wounds." (Psalm 147:3). God will heal our broken hearts by means of a resurrection. He promises: "From the power of the Grave I will redeem them; From death I will recover them." (Hosea 13:14). Remember that loves leaves precious memories that no one can steal. May those treasured memories of Kristen bring you comfort. Please accept my deepest sympathy and a warm invitation for you to find more comfort at jw.org
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Scott T. Lucas posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
So sorry for your loss Michelle. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Scott
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Samantha Buchanan posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Sending love to everyone that knew Kirsten, especially her family. She was one of my very first friends In school, her personality was a blast and her laugh was so contagious. I am glad she is not hurting anymore but we are sure going to miss her. Rest in peace until we meet again, dear friend.
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Lynda Rugg posted a condolence
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Kirsten and my daughter Katy went to preschool together and were fast friends Michelle, Al and i worked together. We moved to NC and lost touch. I read the newspaper today and my heart dropped at hearing of her early death. Michelle and family please know how sorry I am and my thoughts are with you all
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Denise Luzar posted a condolence
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Mike and family,
I so sorry to hear about the loss of Kirsten. My deepest sympathies go to you and your family during this very sad and difficult time.
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Trish posted a condolence
Friday, November 9, 2018
Kirsten was an amazing support to myself when I was going through my own struggles. She constantly checked on me and my well being. Her free spirt, love of ALL animals, and genuine beauty will not be forgotten. Rest easy beautiful girl!!
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Danielle Theriault lit a candle
Friday, November 9, 2018
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Kirsten, you are so loved. I will miss seeing your smiling face at our family gatherings. You were always such a gentle and kind soul, and you will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, cousin. With love, Danielle
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Tracey Lisacki posted a condolence
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Some fond memories of My Lovely Kirsten... when she said she wanted to move to New York to live in a mansion where the owner pays you to dress/act like a cat all day ...she really did love animals
Another recent memory was of her telling me she wanted to get married in a cemetery and asking me if I would be a bridesmaid if she did... I told her I absolutely would be
I loved you Kirsten and I know you knew because we told each other all the time ‘I LOVE YOU BITCH!’
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Claudia posted a condolence
Thursday, November 8, 2018
I enjoyed talking and sharing with her last year when I was in town. She was a beautiful young woman with a beautiful soul. God Bless her and her family. She will be missed. Prayers for all. Claudia33
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Barb posted a condolence
Thursday, November 8, 2018
I'll miss you, my dearest Kirsten. You will always be in my heart, along with your Grandpa. Every time I have a watermelon Eegee's or eat baby-back ribs, I'll think of you. :-)
Love & prayers---always,
Barb
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Noah Theriault posted a condolence
Thursday, November 8, 2018
My dear cousin, you've left us too soon. My heart aches, but I'm taking comfort in the image of you reuniting with our more-than-human family, free of pain, laughing your wonderful laugh. I'm so grateful to have known you, your gentleness, your sense of humor, and your courage. You will live on in our hearts forever and always. May you rest in peace.
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The family of Kirsten Michelle Bankemper uploaded a photo
Thursday, November 8, 2018
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