Thursday, June 2, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sending Happy Thoughts to Heaven
Dallin, Ethan, Char, and Haley 
Ericksons messages going to Grandma
Ericksons messages going to Grandma
The Cordes kids Alexa, Brock, and Davin
Alexa writing her message to Grandma
Cordes's balloons flying to Grandma
Alexa writing her message to Grandma
Cordes's balloons flying to Grandma
Grandpa with his message to Grandma
Megan and Mckenzie decorating their balloons
Dorneys messages going to Heaven
Dorneys messages going to Heaven
The Bowens writing their messages to Aunt Jeannie
Sunday we all sent yellow balloons to Grandma. We did it in 4 different states at 2 pm mountain time. It was fun planning it and knowing we were all remembering Grandma together, even though we were all over the place. We sent balloons from Colorado, Utah, Bozeman, and California. We were so happy the Bowens joined us. They were having their own family crisis with Kedrick in CO~ they received great news too ~ thanks aunt Jeannie for helping out a cute little boy in Colorado :) Thanks everyone for helping a sad day fun and happy.
Sunday we all sent yellow balloons to Grandma. We did it in 4 different states at 2 pm mountain time. It was fun planning it and knowing we were all remembering Grandma together, even though we were all over the place. We sent balloons from Colorado, Utah, Bozeman, and California. We were so happy the Bowens joined us. They were having their own family crisis with Kedrick in CO~ they received great news too ~ thanks aunt Jeannie for helping out a cute little boy in Colorado :) Thanks everyone for helping a sad day fun and happy.Monday, September 13, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
One year ago today.........
Perhaps they are not stars but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Below is the video we showed Thursday at the memorial - Celebration of Jeannies Life. We want to Thank everyone for your love, support, thoughts, and prayers. The road ahead of us is going to be long, tough, and lonley. But we know with friends and family the road will be a little easier. We love you all and appreciate all you all have done to support our family.
With love,
Lynn, Christine, Michelle, Charlene, and Families
With love,
Lynn, Christine, Michelle, Charlene, and Families
Monday, March 2, 2009
Jeannie Kortz
Jeannie Kortz
Sunday, March 01, 2009
NAPA - Jeannie Kortz, a truly beautiful woman, passed away Feb. 27, 2009, surrounded by her family. As beautiful as she was on the outside, she was even more beautiful on the inside. She was born Aug. 27, 1952, in St. Helena, and lived in Napa her entire life. She graduated from Napa High School in 1970 and married Lynn Kortz on Oct. 17, 1970. Together they raised three daughters: Christine, Michelle and Charlene. She was given the name Billie Jean Bowen, but to those who knew her and loved her, they called her Jeannie, Mom, Grandma, aunt, sister and friend.
Jeannie always opened her heart as well as her home to those who needed a little help in life. She opened them willingly to friends and misfits, as well as family. Everyone knew her house had a revolving door where she would welcome you and feed your body and spirit with words of wisdom, comfort and encouragement. She was never too busy to make you feel important. Family meant everything to Jeannie. She loved having Easter parties, family reunions and family gatherings just because, always in an effort to get the family together to enjoy each other’s company and create memories that last forever. What wonderful memories her family has of her, because of her selflessness! Her life was devoted to her eight grandchildren, children and friends. She would hop on a plane in an instant or drop what she was doing to help someone who had a burden she could lighten. The true meaning of love radiated from her being.
Jeannie’s life was full. She loved the beach and spent many days camping along the shores of Bodega Bay with her children, friends, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She enjoyed sitting by the campfire, being at the beach, reading books, visiting and reflecting. She loved to garden, feel the earth in her hands while pruning her roses, harvesting her vegetable garden and many fruit trees. She spent hours working on her property, beautifying everything she touched, creating serene, peaceful flower gardens where her family could feel her love in the air. She helped people through Hanna Somatics Education. Those who were blessed to work with her know of the passion she had for her work and how fortunate they were to work with such a remarkable person.
As cancer ravaged her body, her indomitable spirit still showed through. She left everyone with a message of love, courage, compassion and true friendship.
Jeannie is survived by her husband, Lynn Kortz, of Napa; children Brandon and Christine Dorney, of Salt Lake City, Utah; Derek and Michelle Cordes, of Castle Rock, Colo., and Jason and Charlene Erickson, of Napa; eight beautiful grandchildren: Megan and McKenzie Dorney, Alexa, Brock and Davin Cordes, and Haley, Dallin and Ethan Erickson; sisters Shirley Bowen-Gonos and Ruth Bowen-Zimmer; brothers Tom Bowen, Mike Bowen and Dean Bowen Jr.; mother Opal Bowen-Brackett; father Earnest Dean Bowen; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Please join us March 5, anytime between 1-2:30 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2590 Trower Ave., Napa, to a see a tribute to our mother and to offer condolences to our family. A celebration of her life will be at 3 p.m. at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Hospice of Napa Valley in her name.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
NAPA - Jeannie Kortz, a truly beautiful woman, passed away Feb. 27, 2009, surrounded by her family. As beautiful as she was on the outside, she was even more beautiful on the inside. She was born Aug. 27, 1952, in St. Helena, and lived in Napa her entire life. She graduated from Napa High School in 1970 and married Lynn Kortz on Oct. 17, 1970. Together they raised three daughters: Christine, Michelle and Charlene. She was given the name Billie Jean Bowen, but to those who knew her and loved her, they called her Jeannie, Mom, Grandma, aunt, sister and friend.
Jeannie always opened her heart as well as her home to those who needed a little help in life. She opened them willingly to friends and misfits, as well as family. Everyone knew her house had a revolving door where she would welcome you and feed your body and spirit with words of wisdom, comfort and encouragement. She was never too busy to make you feel important. Family meant everything to Jeannie. She loved having Easter parties, family reunions and family gatherings just because, always in an effort to get the family together to enjoy each other’s company and create memories that last forever. What wonderful memories her family has of her, because of her selflessness! Her life was devoted to her eight grandchildren, children and friends. She would hop on a plane in an instant or drop what she was doing to help someone who had a burden she could lighten. The true meaning of love radiated from her being.
Jeannie’s life was full. She loved the beach and spent many days camping along the shores of Bodega Bay with her children, friends, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She enjoyed sitting by the campfire, being at the beach, reading books, visiting and reflecting. She loved to garden, feel the earth in her hands while pruning her roses, harvesting her vegetable garden and many fruit trees. She spent hours working on her property, beautifying everything she touched, creating serene, peaceful flower gardens where her family could feel her love in the air. She helped people through Hanna Somatics Education. Those who were blessed to work with her know of the passion she had for her work and how fortunate they were to work with such a remarkable person.
As cancer ravaged her body, her indomitable spirit still showed through. She left everyone with a message of love, courage, compassion and true friendship.
Jeannie is survived by her husband, Lynn Kortz, of Napa; children Brandon and Christine Dorney, of Salt Lake City, Utah; Derek and Michelle Cordes, of Castle Rock, Colo., and Jason and Charlene Erickson, of Napa; eight beautiful grandchildren: Megan and McKenzie Dorney, Alexa, Brock and Davin Cordes, and Haley, Dallin and Ethan Erickson; sisters Shirley Bowen-Gonos and Ruth Bowen-Zimmer; brothers Tom Bowen, Mike Bowen and Dean Bowen Jr.; mother Opal Bowen-Brackett; father Earnest Dean Bowen; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Please join us March 5, anytime between 1-2:30 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2590 Trower Ave., Napa, to a see a tribute to our mother and to offer condolences to our family. A celebration of her life will be at 3 p.m. at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Hospice of Napa Valley in her name.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Jeannies Journey ended this morning at 10:20am. She was surrounded by her loved ones. There were tears shed by all as she departed, most were tears of relief and joy that her pain and suffering were over.
Jeannie was still teaching us right up to the end. She never was angry or grumpy over her situation. And as awful as she felt she never had a cross word for anyone.
One night Shirley told her how brave and amazing she was as she endured this trial. She whispered in her ear that there were millions of people going through the same thing and she wasn't all that special.
Her beautiful daughters put it best when we first got the horrible news about their mother. They chose to have gratitude. Gratitude that they weren't five years old when they lost their mother, gratitude that their mother had been able to stay home and be there for them every day after school. Gratitude that she had seen all her grandchildren and had spent so much time with each of them. Gratitude that she lived. Even though she was leaving us before we wanted we are grateful that we had time to say goodbye to her. We are so grateful that we were able to tell her how much we loved her, how much she will be missed and how much we look forward to seeing her again.
Jeannie lived and for that we are grateful.
This last entry by Jeannie's sister, Shirley
Please join us March 5, anytime between 1-2:30 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2590 Trower Ave., Napa, to a see a tribute to our mother and to offer condolences to our family. A celebration of her life will be at 3 p.m. at the same location.
In lieu of flowers Lynn has asked for donations in Jeannie's name to be sent to;
Napa Valley Hospice
414 South Jefferson Street
Napa Ca, 94558
800-451-4664
707-258-9080
Jeannie was still teaching us right up to the end. She never was angry or grumpy over her situation. And as awful as she felt she never had a cross word for anyone.
One night Shirley told her how brave and amazing she was as she endured this trial. She whispered in her ear that there were millions of people going through the same thing and she wasn't all that special.
Her beautiful daughters put it best when we first got the horrible news about their mother. They chose to have gratitude. Gratitude that they weren't five years old when they lost their mother, gratitude that their mother had been able to stay home and be there for them every day after school. Gratitude that she had seen all her grandchildren and had spent so much time with each of them. Gratitude that she lived. Even though she was leaving us before we wanted we are grateful that we had time to say goodbye to her. We are so grateful that we were able to tell her how much we loved her, how much she will be missed and how much we look forward to seeing her again.
Jeannie lived and for that we are grateful.
This last entry by Jeannie's sister, Shirley
Please join us March 5, anytime between 1-2:30 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2590 Trower Ave., Napa, to a see a tribute to our mother and to offer condolences to our family. A celebration of her life will be at 3 p.m. at the same location.
In lieu of flowers Lynn has asked for donations in Jeannie's name to be sent to;
Napa Valley Hospice
414 South Jefferson Street
Napa Ca, 94558
800-451-4664
707-258-9080
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Just a little Update
Jeannies earthly journey is nearing its last days. Hospice came yesterday, and said more than likely she will not make it through the weekend. She continues to be pain free, and is in and out of consciousness. We have enjoyed the time we have been able to spend with her in these last days. We are truly grateful for the knowledge we have that we will see her again, through the Plan of Salvation. It sure hurts knowing she won't be here for us anymore. But we know she is always with us. The knowledge we have does not take away the pain, but it sure helps take away the sting. Even in her last days, she is still teaching us many new lessons.
We are grateful for Hospice. They are truly a wonderful organization to help with her last days. We appreciate her nurse Barbara who's main concern is our mom's comfort and helping her to leave this earthly journey with dignity, comfort, and most importantly peace.
Jeannies earthly journey is nearing its last days. Hospice came yesterday, and said more than likely she will not make it through the weekend. She continues to be pain free, and is in and out of consciousness. We have enjoyed the time we have been able to spend with her in these last days. We are truly grateful for the knowledge we have that we will see her again, through the Plan of Salvation. It sure hurts knowing she won't be here for us anymore. But we know she is always with us. The knowledge we have does not take away the pain, but it sure helps take away the sting. Even in her last days, she is still teaching us many new lessons.
We are grateful for Hospice. They are truly a wonderful organization to help with her last days. We appreciate her nurse Barbara who's main concern is our mom's comfort and helping her to leave this earthly journey with dignity, comfort, and most importantly peace.
Just a little explanation about the room of Love. I am not sure why this computer wont let me document with the pictures, but it wont. When Hospice came over the other day. Moms regular nurse Barbara came with another Nurse to help her. When the nurse came into her room, all she could say was wow. She said my moms room was a room of total love. The next day at the office she was still talking about the "Room of Love." This just shows what great friends and family we have. We love you and appreciate you prayers and support. We continue to read letters to her and give her messages. We know she hears them, and appreciates them.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Recording Artists.........
Brandon came back to town today. He had some unfinished business. He and Char recorded a song for a video we are making for our mom. They felt like pros. They worked hard and played harder. Thank you Lisa, with out you this would not of happened.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Richard King.......my mom loves you....you are her HERO
Your blanket is blog worthy. We were hanging out in her room the other night. She asked if I would take a picture of the blanket hanging on the wall and put it on the blog. So here is your blanket that she just loves. 
Hey Rich do you think this would fit on Chars billboard?
What a sweet Neighbor
Today we were at home it the kitchen hanging out. I know you all have a hard time believing we were hanging out in the kitchen. Because we "NEVER" do that. The sweet neighbors, Bud and Doris came up to the house. Bud asked us 3 girls to come out side. Doris came in and told us he had made my mom a sign. So I was thinking oh that's so cute. What kind of sign could Bud really make. I don't see him as the artsy type nor the cutesy type. So I found my shoes and went outside. Michelle was already out there, and already crying. Well I didn't see a poster, nor a roll of paper for a sign. Laying on the 4 wheeler was this awesome sign he made for my moms garden. When he heard that her favorite color was yellow. He thought John Deere green and yellow. 
We went out to the garden and found the perfect place for her new sign. He even put it in the ground for us. Thank you Bud and Doris, we love you!!!!
We went out to the garden and found the perfect place for her new sign. He even put it in the ground for us. Thank you Bud and Doris, we love you!!!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
We just wanted to say "THANK YOU" to everyone. Prayers, meals, cards, flowers, treats, etc.... Even though we don't see you, we know you care. Everyday here is different. Today was a great day. Monday was not so well. We are happy and grateful for the time we have had to spend with our family. This weekend we were "ALL" here. We had a good time. Telling stories, and just reflecting and reminiscing. We know she does not have much time left with us here. We are treasuring every moment. We know there are many of you that have wanted to come, but have respected her wishes to have no visitors . Having visitors is very taxing for her physically and emotionally. She has asked us to tell you that she loves and cares for you all. She too knows that you love her. She is sad she can no longer visit with loved ones and friends. We continue to read the many emails and "FAN" mail to her. We love you all, and appreciate all you do.
When Lisa came over Saturday night, she brought a treat for us girls. They are metal hearts. Mom wrote a note in each of them for us. We tried to have her do them in bed but she refused. They had to be perfect. She wrote her message first in pencil and then we used a marker. Even being as sick as she is, she still takes pride in everything.
Chocolate dipped strawberries...yum yum
Fed Ex delivered a box of berries today. When we told mom the Lynn Jex family sent chocolate strawberries today. She could not believe it. I asked her if she wanted a milk, dark, or white chocolate one. She asked if there was enough for "EVERYONE" to have two. They were for her, but she wanted to make sure, if she got two everyone could have two. 
THANK YOU JAY & GINA!!!!
Wow what a beautiful surprise. Fed Ex pulled up this morning. We knew a box was coming. We never ever expected what was inside. 
As we are showing her the blanket, you can see her response. She was so touched. Knowing how much time was spent on this quilt.
As we are showing her the blanket, you can see her response. She was so touched. Knowing how much time was spent on this quilt. 
Our beautician makes house calls
We had family pictures taken Sunday. Saturday night, mom got showered and Char combed her hair, as gently as possible. She wanted to have as much hair as possible. With only a half dose of chemo, it is amazing how much hair she is loosing. 
Her beautician made a house call. Yes it was Valentines Day. That just shows you how much Lisa loves you mom. Lisa did a fabulous job. She trimmed and shaped up her hair.
Her beautician made a house call. Yes it was Valentines Day. That just shows you how much Lisa loves you mom. Lisa did a fabulous job. She trimmed and shaped up her hair.
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