Kathleen O'Brien Kamps Obituary (2002

KATHLEEN O'BRIEN KAMPS May 8, 1959-July 19, 2002 Kathleen O'Brien Kamps, at the age of 43, died peacefully at home on July 19, 2002, surrounded by her loving family and friends after a valiant battle with Lou Gegrig's disease. Kathy was born on May 8, 1959 in Swinden, England to Fredrick and Janet O'Brien. A military family, the O'Brien's moved numerous times throughout Europe and the United States during Kathy's younger years, including 5 years in Germany where she acquired a sister, Karin and love of Germany and the fluency in the language. Kathy and her family settled in San Diego, California where she graduated from Helix High School in 1977. Following her parents to Sumner, Washington, Kathy worked and attended Green River Community College, graduating with a AA in 1980 and then moved to Washington State University where she graduated in 1983 with a B.A. in Communications. Kathy began her career in the airline industry in 1984, working as a flight attendant for Alaska Airlines. In 1985 Kathy meet Paul Kamps and fell in love. They married in 1987 and moved to Atlanta, Georgia. She commuted between Atlanta and Seattle for six years until blessed with their first son Byron. At that time she devoted her heart and energy at being the best mother she could be. Her second son, Conor, came along soon after and the family unit was complete. The family moved to Kingston, Washington in 1999. Kathy thrived in the environment of being a mother, wife, and homemaker. It was a given that all holidays and events would be celebrated with enthusiasm and an appropriate blinking light set. She even found time to vounteer in local kindergarden and grade school classes as an assistant and art docent. She absolutely loved being able to work with children. Introducing them to art and cultural diversity. Being extraordinary was something that came naturally to Kathy. Her warm and giving spirit touched everyone she met. Her thoughtfullness and creativity was tireless and never ending. Each person in Kathy's life was made to feel special and uniquely loved. A great tribute to Kathy's life here on earth is represented by the positive impact she had on so many people through the depth of her compassion and friendship. Family and friends were always the highest priority to Kathy. She loved making flower arrangements, reading books, outdoor activities, painting, cooking, jewelry (shopping, buying, wearing..you name it) arts and crafts, decorating and shopping. Kathy also loved to entertain. Nothing was better than going to Kamps Camp for dinner, a party or a weekend visit. Love, fun, and laughter were always on the menu. The vast love of life, friends and family was wholly evident by the number of friends and family with her to the end. Kathy also loved to travel, including trips to Europe and to Florida to visit her parents. She loved going to the beach with her children, family and friends. Her father, Fred O'Brien preceded Kathy in death in 1997, he also died of Lou Gehrig's disease. The family wants to remember Kathy in a special way. They would like remembrances be made to: Project ALS 511 Avenue of the Americas PMB #341 New York, NY 10011 Telephone: 1 (800)603-0270 to make a donation. Fax: 212-337-9915 Donation by Credit Card: (800)603-0207 email: projestals@aol.com Or to any ALS research foundation of your choice in Kathy's name.