Katrina Fortney Obituary

To all of Katrina's family, I am so sorry for your loss. Gabriella and Erick, you might remember Delana who babysat for you in Florida. I am her mom, Kathie. I know your mom is in Heaven and doesn't suffer any more, but your pain is real and difficult. May our Lord give you all of HIS Peace that surpasses understanding.

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 worthwhile,
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 your 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.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010

Katrina was my friend when we were at Ohio State together. We went skating, ate ice cream with our other friends, talked up a storm, and I loved to ride my bicycle to her tiny apartment to get away from the craziness in the dorms. We laughed A LOT! And I learned many things from her...

Katrina will surely be missed by many whose lives she touched. My heart is full of sadness thinking of her loved ones. Please know I send my condolences with sincerest sympathy.

Susi, Nedra just emailed me about your daughter. We are in Florida. I am so sorry about your loss. Our thoughts are with you .
Sincerely, Frieda Smith

Gabriella and Erick, I have been praying for you both. Please contact me and let me know how you are. I know you miss your Mom greatly. I hope to see you tonight at the memorial service.
Kathy Keys

Dear Susi and family,

I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter Katrina. This is a most unimaginable thing for me, to think of losing a child. You and your family, and of course Katrina's children, are in my heart and prayers in this most difficult time. My Dad also sends his condolances and remembers your great kindness to him and Mom. Though I can't be there in person, I will be with you in spirit tomorrow at the service.

with love and prayers,

Jeanne Erickson
Columbia Missouri

Erick and Gabriella,
I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts during this difficult time. Please accept my sympathy.

Gabriella and Erick,
I am so sorry for your great loss. My heart goes out to you and I hope there is some comfort in knowing others care for you. Please take care of each other.

Beautiful and talented Daughter, you are gone way too soon.
Gabriella and Erick, I am so sorry that Mom has left you. My sympathy and understanding are with you and your brother, now and always.
I am missing her, too. Do not be afraid to cry, to love, to go on with life. That is what she would have wanted for you. If you ever need me, just call. Love from your Grandmother Susi 888-9147

My beautiful, talented daughter...you are gone too soon. I am so sorry, Gabriella and Erick. There are times like this when no words seem right.
My sympathy and understanding go out to you now and always, and if you ever need me, just call. love from your Grandmother Susi

I would like to say that I am very sorry to hear of your loss, Gabriella and Erick. Your mother was an amazing woman who showed great joy in her children. She loved you more than you could ever imagine. Her memory lives in you. I know its hard to imagine, why God takes the ones we love most and then we are filled with sorrow and ache for the rest of our lives, but God needed her in heaven. One day you will be with her again, should you choose to live for God. Your mom is watching over you in a new way, she is never gone from you. I know this isn't helpful during your pain. I hope one day the ache will lessen. You are amazing kids with so much potential, live in a way she would be proud of you. We love you and we will always be here when ever you need us or in any way you need us! Our thoughts and prayers are with you! May your memories bring you comfort!