Rummaging through Kathyrn's wardrobe to organise her clothes, stacked on the shelves I came across a little booklet that I bought for her not too long ago entitled, ''Trusting God When you have Cancer - Help and Hope for the Road Ahead". This book is a compilation of letters of encouragement written by one person who was afflicted with cancer to another with the same challenge.
I realise that all of us walk our journey in life needing a friend along the way. For many that were battling with different types of cancer that we met along the way, perhaps Kathryn had been that kind of a friend to them. She was an inspiration, a person they could relate to, to consult, and to share. Kathryn and I have also been blessed to know those of you who called us up or who were introduced to us by others, some from the Elpizo cancer support group and many others through friends that knew of our journey. You have also been an encouragement to her just as much as she has been to you.
We ourselves struggled at points in our own journey as we looked for some guiding hand, for someone that might have gone before along this road less travelled. O, had there been some landmarks, signposts or directions that we could perhaps see to point us to the way ahead!
I remember feeling elated when we hear about stories of healing from cancer and stories of good response to treatment for some of our friends. There are those that had successfully survived beyond the critical periods. I also remember times when we had to put on a stoic front as we battled emotions on hearing of friends that had fallen along the way knowing that we remain vulnerable as well. Yet the journey continues.
You have also lost a friend for the journey and so have I, a dear one. At the same time, I know that with me there is always another friend, the everlasting friend to continue walking this journey with. What a friend we have in Jesus.
Your friend,
Mark
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
From Nikki, Taiwan
Dear Mark,
When I think of Kathryn, I cannot help but sigh. Yet even as I sigh...I cannot help but break into a smile too...because just the thought of Kathryn warms my heart.
The first time I met Kathryn was when I had expressed a desire to attend Elpizo. A breast cancer survivor myself I needed a ride to the meeting. Graciously she offered her services. And to me that was the beginning of a precious gift from God... a precious sister in Kathryn.
Gentle and caring,Kathryn was a listener.
She encouraged me when I was down.
She praised me and cheered me on in my walk with the Lord. And was ever so supportive. Life seems a little easier with God's gift of Kathryn.
A very thoughtful person. Kathryn remembers what you tell her.
She was also very wise. And you can tell what you see is what you get in her.
She takes the time to care.She goes that extra mile to nuture friendship.
Even though I did not know Kathryn very long, hardly 3years, the fragrance of the Lord in her I cannot forget.
I thank God for her.
God bless you Mark, and the children.
Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually - ps105:4
Nikki Hooi, Taiwan
June 14, 2010 2:42 PM
When I think of Kathryn, I cannot help but sigh. Yet even as I sigh...I cannot help but break into a smile too...because just the thought of Kathryn warms my heart.
The first time I met Kathryn was when I had expressed a desire to attend Elpizo. A breast cancer survivor myself I needed a ride to the meeting. Graciously she offered her services. And to me that was the beginning of a precious gift from God... a precious sister in Kathryn.
Gentle and caring,Kathryn was a listener.
She encouraged me when I was down.
She praised me and cheered me on in my walk with the Lord. And was ever so supportive. Life seems a little easier with God's gift of Kathryn.
A very thoughtful person. Kathryn remembers what you tell her.
She was also very wise. And you can tell what you see is what you get in her.
She takes the time to care.She goes that extra mile to nuture friendship.
Even though I did not know Kathryn very long, hardly 3years, the fragrance of the Lord in her I cannot forget.
I thank God for her.
God bless you Mark, and the children.
Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually - ps105:4
Nikki Hooi, Taiwan
June 14, 2010 2:42 PM
Msg from Elaine Teh
From Elaine
When we sang the song ‘Beautiful Saviour’ in our church camp in Penang last week, I couldn’t help but reflect upon Aunty Kathryn’s last moments in SJMC when we crowded in her hospital room to bid her farewell for the last time. As she loved to worship the Lord, we sang worship songs, one of which was her favourite ‘Beautiful Saviour’.
All I can say is that she was indeed a very remarkable lady, someone whom you may be privileged to meet only once in your lifetime. I remember her thoughtfulness in every other way while I was growing up, from gifts on birthdays to her genuine interest on how you were doing. She was a gentle person and was always full of joy. During the time when she was very sick and we visited her, she would ask on our well-being even when we were at lost on how to encourage her during those moments. In fact, we would be encouraged by her strength and trust in the Lord after visiting her.
Hearing testimonies from friends and family during the wake service of how she has blessed many people around her, I was amazed at the things that she has been doing and the people she has ministered to over the years. That is an encouragement to all of us on how we should live our lives, to be a blessing to the people around us and to glorify the name of our Lord Jesus at all times!
To Uncle Mark: We thank God for her life and are grateful to the both of you for being a wonderful example of a fine man and woman of God.
Surely, she will be dearly missed by all of us, her family and friends. To Uncle Mark, Melissa, Pammy and Darren, we pray that the Lord will continue to be your pillar of strength and comfort.
(Elaine Teh is Mark's niece)
When we sang the song ‘Beautiful Saviour’ in our church camp in Penang last week, I couldn’t help but reflect upon Aunty Kathryn’s last moments in SJMC when we crowded in her hospital room to bid her farewell for the last time. As she loved to worship the Lord, we sang worship songs, one of which was her favourite ‘Beautiful Saviour’.
All I can say is that she was indeed a very remarkable lady, someone whom you may be privileged to meet only once in your lifetime. I remember her thoughtfulness in every other way while I was growing up, from gifts on birthdays to her genuine interest on how you were doing. She was a gentle person and was always full of joy. During the time when she was very sick and we visited her, she would ask on our well-being even when we were at lost on how to encourage her during those moments. In fact, we would be encouraged by her strength and trust in the Lord after visiting her.
Hearing testimonies from friends and family during the wake service of how she has blessed many people around her, I was amazed at the things that she has been doing and the people she has ministered to over the years. That is an encouragement to all of us on how we should live our lives, to be a blessing to the people around us and to glorify the name of our Lord Jesus at all times!
To Uncle Mark: We thank God for her life and are grateful to the both of you for being a wonderful example of a fine man and woman of God.
Surely, she will be dearly missed by all of us, her family and friends. To Uncle Mark, Melissa, Pammy and Darren, we pray that the Lord will continue to be your pillar of strength and comfort.
(Elaine Teh is Mark's niece)
Amy Lim from NZ says,
From Amy Lim to Kat
My very special friend Kathryn Teoh (Kat)
When we gave each other a hug (not knowing it was the last hug) before I left for NZ in February I remember vividly saying I will see you again in late June but it was not meant to be.
It took a while for me to come to terms with your departure & once a while your face just flashes in front of me & it dawns upon me I will see you no more when I get back to Malaysia; hence it took some time for me to gather my thoughts & pen this note with teary eyes.
Proverb 27:9. "The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense". Thank God for special friends that we have in our lives & Kat you are one of them.
Kat is very dear to us (the Lim"s). A friend of almost 30 years started when we were then courting our spouses. We were so happy that we had each other especially when we went group datings because we were the only girls not from GTA Klang. That was how our friendship begun. We spent lots of time together during courting days, marriage, child bearing, family trips with the 3 families (MAS).
Kat is one who walks the talk. She goes all way out to help, be it a friend or a stranger. I was assured she will take care of both my sisters when I got them to join her cell group about 10 years ago. She did a marvellous job especially helping them with their spiritual growth, “feeding their souls”. They have grown tremendously under her mentoring.
Kat has always been there for many of us, in good times & in challenging times. Always there by your side and comforting those in need of a shoulder to lean on. Thank you for your kindness, those phone calls, encouraging words and heart of compassion. The love you have shown has many times helped me to understand God's loving kindness.
A petite lady yet bold in her own way. Throughout her illness, she has never complained or murmured despite the afflictions that beset her. And always thanking and praising God. A few years ago, I had the privilege of accompanying her to Singapore for a 2nd medical opinion. Of course, we were quite disappointed with the doctor but we have had a good cry over it and then she overcame it in just a couple of minutes. On the other hand, I was so badly affected but had the peace and joy when we prayed that very night in the apartment and our spirit was lifted up. I just marvelled at her love for God. Such was her faith. She has always being my spiritual sister & a mentor.
Kat is one whom you can always confide with when you have a problem. It's just her way of caring not just for everyone she knows but also those she doesn't know such as a stranger she may have just met. Kat is a very positive lady who is very positive. I long so much to see her when I get home in July but God has better plan for her. I truly appreciate those moments spent with you even in the early years. I still remember fondly the prayer retreat that we went to with our spouses in Nilai & your visit to NZ where your family & mine with our two years old child then; we have had a wonderful time.
Memories of her linger every now and then. The thought of her brings tears to my eyes. It's so hard not being able to bid farewell on your last journey personally as I am oceans away. I just can't believe it but I know you are in a better place. Kat, you will remain very special to me forever.
Farewell Kat, till we meet again on the other shore.
{Amy(Cheam)Lim is married to Stewart Lim and both have been friends of ours for close to 30 years. They are both members of GT Klang. Amy is also sister to Jenny and Dorothy Cheam. She shuttles between Klang and NZ to as two of their children are still studying in NZ}
My very special friend Kathryn Teoh (Kat)
When we gave each other a hug (not knowing it was the last hug) before I left for NZ in February I remember vividly saying I will see you again in late June but it was not meant to be.
It took a while for me to come to terms with your departure & once a while your face just flashes in front of me & it dawns upon me I will see you no more when I get back to Malaysia; hence it took some time for me to gather my thoughts & pen this note with teary eyes.
Proverb 27:9. "The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense". Thank God for special friends that we have in our lives & Kat you are one of them.
Kat is very dear to us (the Lim"s). A friend of almost 30 years started when we were then courting our spouses. We were so happy that we had each other especially when we went group datings because we were the only girls not from GTA Klang. That was how our friendship begun. We spent lots of time together during courting days, marriage, child bearing, family trips with the 3 families (MAS).
Kat is one who walks the talk. She goes all way out to help, be it a friend or a stranger. I was assured she will take care of both my sisters when I got them to join her cell group about 10 years ago. She did a marvellous job especially helping them with their spiritual growth, “feeding their souls”. They have grown tremendously under her mentoring.
Kat has always been there for many of us, in good times & in challenging times. Always there by your side and comforting those in need of a shoulder to lean on. Thank you for your kindness, those phone calls, encouraging words and heart of compassion. The love you have shown has many times helped me to understand God's loving kindness.
A petite lady yet bold in her own way. Throughout her illness, she has never complained or murmured despite the afflictions that beset her. And always thanking and praising God. A few years ago, I had the privilege of accompanying her to Singapore for a 2nd medical opinion. Of course, we were quite disappointed with the doctor but we have had a good cry over it and then she overcame it in just a couple of minutes. On the other hand, I was so badly affected but had the peace and joy when we prayed that very night in the apartment and our spirit was lifted up. I just marvelled at her love for God. Such was her faith. She has always being my spiritual sister & a mentor.
Kat is one whom you can always confide with when you have a problem. It's just her way of caring not just for everyone she knows but also those she doesn't know such as a stranger she may have just met. Kat is a very positive lady who is very positive. I long so much to see her when I get home in July but God has better plan for her. I truly appreciate those moments spent with you even in the early years. I still remember fondly the prayer retreat that we went to with our spouses in Nilai & your visit to NZ where your family & mine with our two years old child then; we have had a wonderful time.
Memories of her linger every now and then. The thought of her brings tears to my eyes. It's so hard not being able to bid farewell on your last journey personally as I am oceans away. I just can't believe it but I know you are in a better place. Kat, you will remain very special to me forever.
Farewell Kat, till we meet again on the other shore.
{Amy(Cheam)Lim is married to Stewart Lim and both have been friends of ours for close to 30 years. They are both members of GT Klang. Amy is also sister to Jenny and Dorothy Cheam. She shuttles between Klang and NZ to as two of their children are still studying in NZ}
Li May says,
Dear Ber Ku (& Melissa, Pam, and Darren),
Been meaning to write something on the blog you created, but as it turns out, am not very tech savvy myself. Anyway, wanted to share this, more for melissa, pam and darren; but feel free to post it if you'd like to.
I also have a couple of photos from when we all prayed together in Andalas - will email you another time.
blessings,
LiMay
*----
One of my first memories of Ber-Kim was meeting her in University Hospital back in 2001. It was a couple of weeks or at most months before Bernard and I were to get married; and we decided to drop by to visit her in between running errands for our wedding. Being an only child, it was quite daunting for me that Bernard had so many relatives! In those 'initial' days, it was often Ber-Kim who helped me feel at ease in the family. In a sense, even meeting her in hospital was a stress-reliever from the hectic event preparations.
Anyway, when we got there to that 4 or 6-bedded ward, Ber Kim was chatting easily with another patient. My first impression was that they had been friends for some time - I found out later that they had just met there in the hospital.
The other thing I observed that day was that Ber-Kim, like most patients around, carried a little paper bag with them. Upon asking her what was inside the bag, she casually and jokingly told us that it was to carry the plastic sac that was used for fluid drainage post surgery - so it looked abit better. I remember thinking to myself "This is genius! Such a simple, practical and dignified solution to an inconvenience".
Over the years after that that I was priviledged to know Ber-Kim, there were many other examples of how she never held airs for herself while staying dignified. Among them were interactions I had with people in the financial sector who knew her. I always felt that they treated me better upon knowing of my association with her - thus was their high regard for her.
I thank God for her fine example. In the few weeks since her passing, I have found myself 'boasting' about her to my friends. As our lives are meant to be testimonies of the goodness and reality of the gospel, I have taken the opportunity to gossip about Jesus by talking about her. I can see people visibly touched when I share of her faith in God, and of her positive attitude.
Truly, we serve an amazing God. His love is always true. In the week before Ber-Kim passed away, there were 2 songs that kept ringing in my head. First, was the simple chorus:
I love You Lord
And I lift my voice
To worship You
O my soul, rejoice
Take joy, my King
In what You hear
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
In Your ear
Secondly, was a new chorus written to the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul". (I've attached the mp3, hopefully it's not too large).
It is well, it is well
Through the storm I am held
It is well, it is well with my soul
It is well, it is well
God has won, Christ prevailed
It is well, it is well with my soul
So thank you, Ber-Ku and family, for all of you with Ber-Kim, modelling for us how we can live in God. Also of how we can grieve and still have hope in Him. We, I, am so blessed.
(Li May is married to Bernard Lee, Mark's nephew)
Been meaning to write something on the blog you created, but as it turns out, am not very tech savvy myself. Anyway, wanted to share this, more for melissa, pam and darren; but feel free to post it if you'd like to.
I also have a couple of photos from when we all prayed together in Andalas - will email you another time.
blessings,
LiMay
*----
One of my first memories of Ber-Kim was meeting her in University Hospital back in 2001. It was a couple of weeks or at most months before Bernard and I were to get married; and we decided to drop by to visit her in between running errands for our wedding. Being an only child, it was quite daunting for me that Bernard had so many relatives! In those 'initial' days, it was often Ber-Kim who helped me feel at ease in the family. In a sense, even meeting her in hospital was a stress-reliever from the hectic event preparations.
Anyway, when we got there to that 4 or 6-bedded ward, Ber Kim was chatting easily with another patient. My first impression was that they had been friends for some time - I found out later that they had just met there in the hospital.
The other thing I observed that day was that Ber-Kim, like most patients around, carried a little paper bag with them. Upon asking her what was inside the bag, she casually and jokingly told us that it was to carry the plastic sac that was used for fluid drainage post surgery - so it looked abit better. I remember thinking to myself "This is genius! Such a simple, practical and dignified solution to an inconvenience".
Over the years after that that I was priviledged to know Ber-Kim, there were many other examples of how she never held airs for herself while staying dignified. Among them were interactions I had with people in the financial sector who knew her. I always felt that they treated me better upon knowing of my association with her - thus was their high regard for her.
I thank God for her fine example. In the few weeks since her passing, I have found myself 'boasting' about her to my friends. As our lives are meant to be testimonies of the goodness and reality of the gospel, I have taken the opportunity to gossip about Jesus by talking about her. I can see people visibly touched when I share of her faith in God, and of her positive attitude.
Truly, we serve an amazing God. His love is always true. In the week before Ber-Kim passed away, there were 2 songs that kept ringing in my head. First, was the simple chorus:
I love You Lord
And I lift my voice
To worship You
O my soul, rejoice
Take joy, my King
In what You hear
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound
In Your ear
Secondly, was a new chorus written to the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul". (I've attached the mp3, hopefully it's not too large).
It is well, it is well
Through the storm I am held
It is well, it is well with my soul
It is well, it is well
God has won, Christ prevailed
It is well, it is well with my soul
So thank you, Ber-Ku and family, for all of you with Ber-Kim, modelling for us how we can live in God. Also of how we can grieve and still have hope in Him. We, I, am so blessed.
(Li May is married to Bernard Lee, Mark's nephew)
1st Wake Service, Sunday, 2 May 2010 Part 2
It is well with my soul, ......
Praying for the family
Mona, Kathryn's sister and her parents
May the Lord of all comfort,....
Mark sharing his eulogy
Moments of tenderness
Mona, Kathryn's sister
"My beloved sister, role modeled the Lord Jesus Christ, by her love for people, her care for elders, and her kindness reaches out to touch many lives....My dear sister may not say anything about her struggles, but the strength that is in her goes beyond, and I know that God is surely doing a great work in her life. I hardly hear her complaining but always professing that God is good"
Tony Yoong, GT Subang Cell Leader, making announcements on arrangements
Friends of Kathryn from her alma mater, Assunta School in Petaling Jaya sharing their impressions and experiences :
“one of the nicest persons I know- with a very kind heart”
“she has been my inspiration”
“in the midst of all her pain, she was always smiling- and even laughing”
“she never had self-pity- instead, her courage inspired me and gave me strength”
“she was always concerned with how we were, but never complained about herself”
Her heart was so big, her faith and devotion to God was unshakeable.
You walked out of her hospital room feeling so inspired by this brave, wonderful woman
- I know I did. We have been so blessed that you came into our lives again after all these years.
Thank you for giving us the bounty of sharing these last precious months with you
We love you ...and we will miss you.
Sections of the crowd
Pastor Christine Phang from Glad Tidings Klang, giving her message
"Even when the battle rages on, and the going is tough, when circumstances defy her understanding, she chose to worship the God she knows with all her strength. What an example she is to us today...Kathryn's message to us today, her fellow soldiers.
'When the battle rages, fight with dignity, grace, courage, humility with a quiet confidence in a faithful God'.
She brought out the best in Mark... She brought the best out of us as a church - as we learn to love unconditionally, selflessly and sacrificially."
A hand raised in surrender
Moments of worship
Melissa with her friends from SIB Kuala Lumpur giving a special number
BEAUTIFUL SAVIOUR
"How wonderful, how beautiful,
Name above very name, exalted high,
How wonderful, how beautiful,
Jesus your Name, name above every name,
Jesus"
Kathryn's Mum and Dad at the wake
Our jewels, Melissa, Pam & Darren
A section of the crowd,
Stewart, a member of the Subang Jaya cell
leading worship
More to come....
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
1st Night Wake Service 2 May 2010 Part 1
Chris Chiam, GT Klang Subang Jaya cell member at the first night wake service.
1. Kathryn's parents at the wake 2. Shereen and Donna, nieces
1. Alex Raj, a close friend from GT Klang, emcee for the wake
2. A section of the crowd
Pastor Christine talking to Pastor Mike Constantine
Friends arriving for the wake service
Mona, Kathryn's sister with George Ang
Mona and Kimberley Ang
Mark with sister, Doris
A section of the crowd
1. Pastor Peter Wong from GT Klang with Pastor Alex Tan from Acts Church
2. Pooi Wah & Margaret Raj from GT Klang
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Eulogy, May 3rd 2010 Take Huat
My wife, May, has known sister Boon Kee for the past 19 years. They worked in the same company and car pool to work during the time when they were both pregnant. Over the years they became good friends and Boon Kee was a constant comfort to May whenever we quarreled.
In early August 2001, May and I had a big quarrel and we did not talk for days. She was then carrying our fifth child. Our years of quarrelling had a toll on her that she decided she had enough and wanted a divorce. She approached Sis Boon Kee for advice on a divorce preceding but only received prayers and a rebuke from her. She said divorce is not an option!
On one fine Saturday August morning, while we were having breakfast at USJ section 4, I decided that we should visit Boon Kee. While approaching her house, Bro Mark was reversing his car out to work, but seeing us he stopped and drove back in.
Unknowing to me, both Mark and Boon Kee knew of our marital problems. They welcomed us and we started to chat. Along the fellowship, Sis Boon Kee asked whether I knew where I was going when I expired. I told her I did not know as I was a Buddhist follower. She looked me in the eyes with such intense conviction and confidence and told me that she would be going to heaven. I believed her.
Bro Mark challenged us to take the sinner prayers and for one who had done all possible things to have a peaceful and harmonious family but failed, I took the challenge as I had nothing to lose. We experienced the Lord Jesus personally on August 19, 2001 at 9:00 am. We never quarreled since then and all thanks to Sis Boon Kee and Bro Mark who led us to Lord Jesus.
Tonight, I was told that Sis Boon Kee was taken up to heaven and came back to life and convicted her dear father and brother to receive Christ. I was so encouraged by this testimony and so blessed to hear this wonderful news that I must speak out for her. She convicted me 9 years ago that she knew she is going to heaven after her work is done on earth. Tonight she confirms it for me and her loved ones.
Brothers and sisters, sis Boon Kee is now in heaven. I know where I am going. Do you?
(May is an ex-colleague of Kathryn for many years and have remained close friends even after both of them left KPMG. Through their friendship, Mark and Take Huat and their families have also become good and close family friends)
In early August 2001, May and I had a big quarrel and we did not talk for days. She was then carrying our fifth child. Our years of quarrelling had a toll on her that she decided she had enough and wanted a divorce. She approached Sis Boon Kee for advice on a divorce preceding but only received prayers and a rebuke from her. She said divorce is not an option!
On one fine Saturday August morning, while we were having breakfast at USJ section 4, I decided that we should visit Boon Kee. While approaching her house, Bro Mark was reversing his car out to work, but seeing us he stopped and drove back in.
Unknowing to me, both Mark and Boon Kee knew of our marital problems. They welcomed us and we started to chat. Along the fellowship, Sis Boon Kee asked whether I knew where I was going when I expired. I told her I did not know as I was a Buddhist follower. She looked me in the eyes with such intense conviction and confidence and told me that she would be going to heaven. I believed her.
Bro Mark challenged us to take the sinner prayers and for one who had done all possible things to have a peaceful and harmonious family but failed, I took the challenge as I had nothing to lose. We experienced the Lord Jesus personally on August 19, 2001 at 9:00 am. We never quarreled since then and all thanks to Sis Boon Kee and Bro Mark who led us to Lord Jesus.
Tonight, I was told that Sis Boon Kee was taken up to heaven and came back to life and convicted her dear father and brother to receive Christ. I was so encouraged by this testimony and so blessed to hear this wonderful news that I must speak out for her. She convicted me 9 years ago that she knew she is going to heaven after her work is done on earth. Tonight she confirms it for me and her loved ones.
Brothers and sisters, sis Boon Kee is now in heaven. I know where I am going. Do you?
(May is an ex-colleague of Kathryn for many years and have remained close friends even after both of them left KPMG. Through their friendship, Mark and Take Huat and their families have also become good and close family friends)
From Chui-En, ex-colleague
Mark, Melissa, Pamela & Darren.
I have known Boon Kee since my days in GPTJ. When she graduated from MU she expressed an interest in tax and I was working in KPMG tax then. I remember putting her in touch with Poh Keat and she was hired. She was an exemplary employee and colleague, always going the extra mile in her work.
When I left Malaysia, we kept in touch and I knew of her illness. I remember coming by to visit your family during one of our trips home. Your family took Yung Juen and I for breakfast that Yacht Club in Port Klang.
Even in her illness she was always encouraging people and in her selfless manner, she was ministering to others. I referred 3 of my colleagues in Schlumberger who were suffering from cancer and she would call to encourage and speak words of comfort and assurance to them. Such is her gift and her heart for people. The last few months were difficult for her and your family. When she was coughing badly and too weak to speak, she used the SMS to communicate.
Even as we grieve her passing, we know her suffering is over and she is in the presence of our Lord. Her mortal body has been clothed in immortality and death has been swallowed up in victory - 1Cor 15:53-54. What blessed assurance.
You have lost a wonderful wife and mother and we have lost a good friend. May the Lord continue to comfort you in your time of grief.
Chui-En, KehChing and Yung Juen
June 3, 2010 10:21 PM
(Chui-En and Kathryn were close colleagues in KPMG. Chui-En was also in the same church in GT Petaling Jaya many years back).
I have known Boon Kee since my days in GPTJ. When she graduated from MU she expressed an interest in tax and I was working in KPMG tax then. I remember putting her in touch with Poh Keat and she was hired. She was an exemplary employee and colleague, always going the extra mile in her work.
When I left Malaysia, we kept in touch and I knew of her illness. I remember coming by to visit your family during one of our trips home. Your family took Yung Juen and I for breakfast that Yacht Club in Port Klang.
Even in her illness she was always encouraging people and in her selfless manner, she was ministering to others. I referred 3 of my colleagues in Schlumberger who were suffering from cancer and she would call to encourage and speak words of comfort and assurance to them. Such is her gift and her heart for people. The last few months were difficult for her and your family. When she was coughing badly and too weak to speak, she used the SMS to communicate.
Even as we grieve her passing, we know her suffering is over and she is in the presence of our Lord. Her mortal body has been clothed in immortality and death has been swallowed up in victory - 1Cor 15:53-54. What blessed assurance.
You have lost a wonderful wife and mother and we have lost a good friend. May the Lord continue to comfort you in your time of grief.
Chui-En, KehChing and Yung Juen
June 3, 2010 10:21 PM
(Chui-En and Kathryn were close colleagues in KPMG. Chui-En was also in the same church in GT Petaling Jaya many years back).
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Eulogy, 2nd May 2010 The Overcomers
EULOGY AT KATHRYN’S WAKE SERVICE by Lawrence Hie
On behalf of the Overcomers, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Mark and the family.
Kathryn or Boon Kee, was a member of the Overcomers, a singing group formed more than 30 years ago in GTPJ. We were in our teens and we were in Sunday school then and we formed this group which went around ministering to schools, churches and Christian groups and institutions.
The Overcomers have been dormant for many years and we had a reunion at this home here about 3 years ago. Mark and Boon Kee were the key persons to organise the reunion and we had a good time reminiscing the good old times.
We restarted to visit churches; we have been to churches in Malacca, Penang and PJ.
We have always asked our sister, Boon Kee, to testify of her condition and her faith in our God. I can say that her testimony was more powerful and impactful than all the songs we sang and all the things we could share combined. Boon Kee had such an amazing testimony of faith, she was a symbol of hope for so many.
Today we are here to give our final respects and as much as it is a time of grieving and sadness, it is also a time to celebrate her life. This life, as we have heard so much tonight, that has touched so many other lives in so many ways.
I would like to share a poem to Mark and the family by Helen Steiner Rice entitled :-
DEATH IS THE GATEWAY TO ETERNAL LIFE
By Helen Steiner Rice
Death is just another step along life’s changing way
No more than just a gateway to a new and better day
And parting from our loved ones is much easier to bear
When we know that they are waiting for us to join them there
For it is on the wings of death that the living soul takes flight
Into the Promised Land of God where there shall be no night
So death is just a natural thing, like the closing of a door
As we start upon a journey to a new and distant shore
And none need make this journey undirected or alone
For God promised us safe passage to this vast and great unknown
So let your grief be softened and yield not to despair
For you have only placed your loved one in the loving Father’s care
Initially I wondered why the poet wrote that heaven is a vast and great unknown. We know heaven is where the angels are and where our God is. As I ponder further, I tend to agree with the writer. We think we know about heaven but I believe heaven is beyond what we can think or imagine; it is beyond our understanding.
In ending, we earlier sang the song “In the Sweet By and By”; Kathryn, one day we shall see you at the other beautiful shore.
Thank you.
Presented by
Lawrence Hie
(Lawrence is part of the group of friends that Kathryn grew up with in her teenage years, called the Overcomers)
On behalf of the Overcomers, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Mark and the family.
Kathryn or Boon Kee, was a member of the Overcomers, a singing group formed more than 30 years ago in GTPJ. We were in our teens and we were in Sunday school then and we formed this group which went around ministering to schools, churches and Christian groups and institutions.
The Overcomers have been dormant for many years and we had a reunion at this home here about 3 years ago. Mark and Boon Kee were the key persons to organise the reunion and we had a good time reminiscing the good old times.
We restarted to visit churches; we have been to churches in Malacca, Penang and PJ.
We have always asked our sister, Boon Kee, to testify of her condition and her faith in our God. I can say that her testimony was more powerful and impactful than all the songs we sang and all the things we could share combined. Boon Kee had such an amazing testimony of faith, she was a symbol of hope for so many.
Today we are here to give our final respects and as much as it is a time of grieving and sadness, it is also a time to celebrate her life. This life, as we have heard so much tonight, that has touched so many other lives in so many ways.
I would like to share a poem to Mark and the family by Helen Steiner Rice entitled :-
DEATH IS THE GATEWAY TO ETERNAL LIFE
By Helen Steiner Rice
Death is just another step along life’s changing way
No more than just a gateway to a new and better day
And parting from our loved ones is much easier to bear
When we know that they are waiting for us to join them there
For it is on the wings of death that the living soul takes flight
Into the Promised Land of God where there shall be no night
So death is just a natural thing, like the closing of a door
As we start upon a journey to a new and distant shore
And none need make this journey undirected or alone
For God promised us safe passage to this vast and great unknown
So let your grief be softened and yield not to despair
For you have only placed your loved one in the loving Father’s care
Initially I wondered why the poet wrote that heaven is a vast and great unknown. We know heaven is where the angels are and where our God is. As I ponder further, I tend to agree with the writer. We think we know about heaven but I believe heaven is beyond what we can think or imagine; it is beyond our understanding.
In ending, we earlier sang the song “In the Sweet By and By”; Kathryn, one day we shall see you at the other beautiful shore.
Thank you.
Presented by
Lawrence Hie
(Lawrence is part of the group of friends that Kathryn grew up with in her teenage years, called the Overcomers)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Grief
Dear friends,
It is one month after Kathryn's passing. I realise that some of you who have known Kathryn closely enough may also be grieving quietly together with my family. This is especially true for those who have been taking care of her and those who share many wonderful memories of moments spent with her especially toward the last few months or years of her life.
Words cannot adequately describe my deepest appreciation for all that you have been to me and my family. I know you will miss the familiar call or sms, the occasional meal together, the warm and disarming smile, that understanding heart. At a moment's call, I know you would have been there to attend to her needs. And you know that at a moment's call, she would have done the same for you or someone else's needs. Only this time, you know she will not be there. An empty silence awaits us.
I was planning to touch on this area in my writings later but I realise that maybe it is good to talk just a little about this now. This is not an easy subject to talk about, not especially when our emotions are still hurting. Maybe it is during times like this, that we can best describe what we feel in our hearts.
We are still in a daze trying to grapple with the depth of the loss in our grief and the pain that comes with it. Some of you just like me may wander aimlessly for a while either in our mind or physically trying to process and come to terms with what has happened.
We may weep quietly in our hearts or scream at the top of our lungs internally. For me, the time for grieving is often alone usually when I am driving or late at night, because other times have been busy clearing earthly matters. Sometimes it may be just tears welling up at the corner of my eyes, sometimes it's just groaning.
I wonder often whether Jesus understands grief the way we are experiencing now. In my mind I know he does. That Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus may speak volumes about his humanity but it doesn’t do much to soothe the pain that we feel now, at least not for now.
We search the breadth of our own individual universe for an answer. I do not have the answers. Not yet anyway, maybe never eventually. I guess our all our ‘why's’ are usually met with silence. 'Why is that so?' we ask. Maybe the answer is in a word, 'faith'. The Bible calls it the lifestyle of the just. I guess we all need that extra bit of grace to embrace it, especially now.
Just taking one step at a time,
Mark.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
It is one month after Kathryn's passing. I realise that some of you who have known Kathryn closely enough may also be grieving quietly together with my family. This is especially true for those who have been taking care of her and those who share many wonderful memories of moments spent with her especially toward the last few months or years of her life.
Words cannot adequately describe my deepest appreciation for all that you have been to me and my family. I know you will miss the familiar call or sms, the occasional meal together, the warm and disarming smile, that understanding heart. At a moment's call, I know you would have been there to attend to her needs. And you know that at a moment's call, she would have done the same for you or someone else's needs. Only this time, you know she will not be there. An empty silence awaits us.
I was planning to touch on this area in my writings later but I realise that maybe it is good to talk just a little about this now. This is not an easy subject to talk about, not especially when our emotions are still hurting. Maybe it is during times like this, that we can best describe what we feel in our hearts.
We are still in a daze trying to grapple with the depth of the loss in our grief and the pain that comes with it. Some of you just like me may wander aimlessly for a while either in our mind or physically trying to process and come to terms with what has happened.
We may weep quietly in our hearts or scream at the top of our lungs internally. For me, the time for grieving is often alone usually when I am driving or late at night, because other times have been busy clearing earthly matters. Sometimes it may be just tears welling up at the corner of my eyes, sometimes it's just groaning.
I wonder often whether Jesus understands grief the way we are experiencing now. In my mind I know he does. That Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus may speak volumes about his humanity but it doesn’t do much to soothe the pain that we feel now, at least not for now.
We search the breadth of our own individual universe for an answer. I do not have the answers. Not yet anyway, maybe never eventually. I guess our all our ‘why's’ are usually met with silence. 'Why is that so?' we ask. Maybe the answer is in a word, 'faith'. The Bible calls it the lifestyle of the just. I guess we all need that extra bit of grace to embrace it, especially now.
Just taking one step at a time,
Mark.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
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