Tribute from Rafikis - Sue Vanderhoof, Cindy Beebe & Liz Parker

Created by Wanjiku 11 years ago
We were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the tragic and senseless loss of your parents - our dear friend J.S. and his beautiful wife Savita. There simply are no words that can be expressed to take away the pain you are experiencing. We would like to share with you though that our lives have been blessed by the friendship and fellowship we have shared with J.S. over the last decade. Both as Rotarians and as Rafikis. J.S. has been by our side, as a friend and a fellow humanitarian, since we began traveling to Kenya in 2001. He contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the vocational sewing program at Ngala School for the Deaf during our early visits and he eagerly educated us on the need for the reforestation of Kenya during our most recent visit by assisting us with the purchase and planting of trees. J.S. was an exemplary role model and his dedication and commitment to humanitarian service has served as an inspiration to all of us. Our lives have been enriched and our spirits have grown through our friendship and service with J.S. Some of our most treasured memories with be those of the wonderful time we shared with our Nakuru Rotarian friends when they visited Salt Lake City for the Rotary International Convention! The week was spent attending the convention and taking sightseeing trips! We visited Snowbird Ski Resort - taking a tram ride to the highest mountain top to view the entire Salt Lake Valley below, the Olympic Ski Jumping Park in Park City, the Kennecott Copper Mine, the University of Utah Football Stadium - the venue for the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2002 Winter Olympics and yes, we even attended a real live Western Rodeo. J.S., dressed in khaki shorts, black socks and walking shoes, was enthralled by it all, was always smiling, and never missed a beat - in fact, it was hard to keep up with him!! We’ll never forget his expression of gratitude for the warm hospitality he experienced while here in Salt Lake. And, how he reciprocated on our next visit to Kenya with a beautiful evening of fabulous food and fellowship at his sister’s home. It was then that we met his lovely wife Savita for the first time. Such a beautiful, soft spoken and gracious woman. J.S. - such a kind and generous man with such a strong dignified presence. They will hold a special place in our hearts forever. As they walked together in life, may they rest together in eternal peace. Our hearts break for you and your family and you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Rafikis Sue Vanderhoof, Cindy Beebe & Liz Parker