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BORN
1956
DIED
2007
Carl Keller Obituary
Carl William Keller made his grand entrance on November 14, 1956 in San Francisco. He grew up with his parents Elsie and Carl in Santa Cruz and graduated from Santa Cruz HS in 1974. His first glamorous foray into the exciting world of entertainment was working the Tilt-A-Whirl on the pier at the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk. There he had the unparalleled honor of hosing out the "Barf Baskets" at the end of each ride. Realizing his talents may lie in a different direction, Carl headed north in 1979 and settled in Eugene where he began working for GMAC.
Looking back on those halcyon days on the Tilt-A-Whirl, Carl longed to return to show biz. He quickly found a home in Eugene's theatre community and was soon singing and dancing his way into the hearts of thousands. During an audition at The Very Little Theatre in 1988, he met a little red-headed chatterbox named Tami Dingle. It was kismet! In true theatrical fashion they became co-stars, best friends, soul mates and on December 14, 2006, husband and wife.
Some of the things we'll miss about Carl are his generosity, his unconditional love, hugs that would crack your ribs, his swell aftershave and his ability to laugh at himself. We remember the time when Carl was training for the Portland Marathon in 1995. He was so proud of himself that he had been able to reach twenty miles in a practice run and still felt cool and breezy. While he was recounting this to Tami, she happened to glance down and saw that his running shorts were split out the back and his cute little white butt was completely exposed. As Tami was rolling on the floor in laughter, Carl also mentioned he'd stopped at the grocery store on the way home, thereby treating even more people to a view of his posterior. Another Carl-ism was the time he auditioned for "Star Search" when they were scouting for talent in Eugene. He was prepared to sing "That Old Black Magic." But when he hit the stage, he forgot every single word! Professional that he was, instead of excusing himself, Carl proceeded to "hum" the entire song! Since "Star Search" didn't have a category for "Best Hummer," Carl did not get the call to go to Hollywood. Hollywood's loss was our gain. Carl went on to appear in productions at The Very Little Theatre, Actor's Cabaret and OFAM, too numerous to mention. Among his many other talents were designing and building sets for many years at The Very Little Theatre and ballroom dancing.
In all of Carl's endeavors he was cheerful, brave, positive and generous. Nothing brought out all of those qualities more than when he knew he had a terminal illness. He was, and remains, our hero. The family would like to thank everyone who prayed for Carl, sent cards and showered them with love during this difficult time. Remembrances may be made to either Greenhill Humane Society or Sacred Heart Hospice.
Carl is survived by his wife, Tami; his father, Carl; his in-laws, Bev and Bill Dingle; his two beloved puddy cats, Beezus and Bixby; best friends, Tim and Paula Tendick; a multitude of aunts, cousins and second-cousins; and more friends than he could name (but you know who you are!)
Carl's one fault, and he would be the first to admit it, was that he was always late. He used to say "I'll be late for my own funeral," which is why we are not having one. However, a celebration of life will be held later this summer. Stay tuned for further details.
Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Carl Keller
Susan Hiskey
May 26, 2023
What a nice surprise today, seeing the guest book arrive in my email! I was just thinking of Carl the other day. He sure was a great guy, so helpful, so kind. I remember once, at one of GMAC's Christmas parties, he asked me to dance. I could not pick up my feet! Carl was very patient and never laughed at my incoordination. Thank you, Carl, for that. Love and miss you, my friend.
Tam Tam
May 25, 2008
Hi Honey- It's been over a year since you left us and every single day you are remembered and talked about. I have been trying to get the house taken care of. I think you would approve of the decisions I've made (well, maybe not the pink powder room) but I wish you'd been here to share in it all. Oh well, I am sure you can see it from where you are. You have a bird's eye view! Your dad is doing well and is being well taken care of. I miss you so much but you will always be a part of me. The kids send their love and purrs. Please keep watching over us, okay? I will always need you. I love you Honey!!
Tara Townley
February 18, 2008
Desiree and I had the opportunity to spend time with Tami while looking through your "retirement" collections. It was wonderful to spend time with Tam-Tam; hearing stories about you, talking and laughing. Josh and I look SO forward to using the ornaments and the memories they will help us create. All the items will be displayed with pride. We can't send you a thank you note, but hoped you may "check your mail". You are such a special man and your memory continues to be a source of joy for so many. Thank you Carl. (Tami and the "kids" are doing well, they miss you though.)
Tam Tam
February 14, 2008
Happy Valentines Day!! Before the sun came up this morning I looked at the sky and it was just full of the brightest stars I had seen in months. I know you had something to do with that! You always made February 14th a special day for me and I loved trying to come up with something new for you every year. So today was a sad one but I know it's your mom's birthday and it's the first time in many, many years you have been able to spend the day with her. So, I send hugs and kisses to you (and Lydia) from me and the kids. As always, I miss you and love you Honey!!
Tam Tam
January 8, 2008
I didn't write at Christmas because I was filled with so many emotions. You loved the hoidays so much, you were like a big kid! I miss you so much but I know you had a wonderful Christmas in Heaven. Everyone made sure your dad had a good holiday and we will continue to keep an eye on him for you. I wish I could say more, I just miss you so much. I love you Honey!
Tim and Paula Tendick
December 30, 2007
Christmas has come and gone and we truly missed having you here to exchange gifts and play games. I set a small tree upstairs, full of your ornaments. So, in a way, you were with us. We miss you honey, you will always be in our hearts.
Tam Tami
December 15, 2007
Yesterday was our anniversary and I missed you like mad. But I felt you around me and we'll get caught up on all of our celebrating when we're together again! I love you Honey!
Paula Tendick
November 27, 2007
Today is my 55th birthday and I can't help thinking that you won't be here to help me celebrate. I know that you and my Mom are here in spirit. This Friday night would be a Baskin Robbins cake night for sure! Celebrate for me! How about a little Lindy Hop with my Mom? We love you Honey!
Debi Reischman
November 18, 2007
Happy birthday 2 ewes
Happy birthday 2 ewes
Happy birthday my dearest Carl
Happy birthday 2 ewes!
OK, you got the song (a bit out of tune if you listened very closely). I thought of you all day on your 51st birthday...shed a few tears but smiled more often. I remember one year ago you and your dad came to Gladstone to celebrate "the November family birthdays" and ended up having your car towed home due to car trouble (we would learn later that, of course, you were really suffering from a headache and blurred vision). Not unlike you, you put on a brave face so that none of us would worry. You and I spent so much time talking in the kitchen and I didn't even have a clue from you. Here we are .. 1 year later and the only person missing from the birthday celebration was you. Let me correct that, you are missed; but never missing. We celebrated your life and raised a glass to you, your dad, and Esther. You are my hero, I miss you and I love you.
Debbi Watson
November 16, 2007
Happy Birthday, Carl! I know, I missed it by a couple of days -- I'm sure that wouldn't surprise you at all. I still can't believe you're gone. I think about you every day. Remember that purple crushed velvet suit and furry white boots you wore to work for Halloween one year? I have that picture on my cubicle wall and it makes me smile every time I look at it. You may be gone, but you left us a real blessing: We will forever have the happy memories of our time spent with you.
Don Lewis & Paul Laursen
November 15, 2007
Here it is the 15th, and as always, I usually missed Carl's birthday by a day or two. It still doesn't seem real, and we think about you all the time. When we're in the kitchen (that Carl would have loved to remodel for us), or when we're around the pool (which Carl spent more time at than anyone!), and while we were in Europe this summer (Tami can explain that one!). It is a day to celebrate, and to reflect on all the wonderful moments Carl Keller brought into our lives.
Lindy Moore
November 14, 2007
Dearest of the Dear Carl,
Hey man! We really, really, really miss you! Today is your birthday and we all hope you're having a fabulous time in heaven, teaching the other angels how to dance the swing. You'll never be forgotten and every day we share a fond memory and a good chuckle at one of our favorite Carl-isms.
You were and are the best. We love you madly!
- Reg and Pep
Beezus & Bixby
November 14, 2007
Happy Birthday to the best dad a puddy could ever have!! We love you!
Nancy Boyett
November 14, 2007
Carl, I still cry when I think of you leaving us; because I loved you and miss you now.......
I hope your birthday is spectacular today and you have a great time dancing in the clouds. My memories of you here make me smile. Thanks buddy!
Big hugs from me to you!
Tim and Paula Tendick
November 14, 2007
We miss you more than words can say. But, we celebrate your life and are so honored to have shared a small part of it with you. Friday nights will never be the same! We know that you are watching over us and will be with us on Saturday as we celebrate your birthday. We love you, Carl, and know that we will see you again.
Mindy Linder
November 13, 2007
Ah my dear brother Scorpio. We November b-day folks have got to stick together--so let's toast one to eachother--wherever we are on our special days.
Love you Carl!
Tami Keller
November 13, 2007
Your birthday is cause to celebrate. I can't imagine what all our lives would have been like if you had never been born. I know mine would have been a lot less fun. Every day I think about one of our adventures together or one of the bizarre things that could only happen to you and I laugh. How about the time you refused to pay an "unfair and undeserved" traffic ticket you got and, months later, the Washington State Police stopped you when you were on your way to Seattle for a job interview? You didn't have enough cash, or a credit card, to pay the fine so they impounded your car and stuck you on a Greyhound bus back to Eugene. Then after you walked home from the bus station you realized your house keys were still in your car!! So you had to break a garage window to get in. Only you!
So I send a big Happy Birthday kiss, and a giant hug, to you in Heaven. I bet they really know how to party up there. I miss you so much I can't put it into words but November 14th is a day of celebration, not sorrow! The kids and I send all of our love Honey!!
Ronald Skoty
November 13, 2007
Nice try Carl, but leaving this earth does not keep you from always being 4 months older, to the date, than me!!! I miss you immensely yet always feel you watching over me. I look forward to seeing you in heaven. Your forever YOUNGER friend, Ron
Tami Keller
September 10, 2007
It's been almost 4 months since you left us and not a day goes by where I don't talk about you. You were, and always will be, such a vital part my life. You are my first thought in the morning and my last at night. I still expect to see you walk up the stairs every night. It is hard but I trying really hard to go forward and make you proud. Bixby, Beezus and I miss you more than I can ever put into words. I love you Honey!
Wayne Howard
June 30, 2007
I will miss Carl very much, I remember when we went bowling and we had to choose a 3 letter name. That is when we all became REG, PEP, TAM, AND "BUD". Carl was a very generous person, always giving of everything and never expecting anything in return, that is the person I will remember. I will miss him very much!
Lindy Moore
June 30, 2007
Every day I look at a very special picture I have of Carl and you, Tami, because of course it was always Carl and you! No one was braver than Carl facing death and no one worked harder to save him than you did. You were a partnership from beginnning to end. Carl was so much larger than life and we all loved him so much, I still have a hard time believing that he's gone. He was a great guy, the best of friends, generous to a fault and with a spirit that was larger than life. And that's how I remember Carl, larger than life even now that he's beyond life. In that picture I have of you two, you're both captured in a special glow. The glow of the love that you had for one another. May that light sustain you in these sad days ahead and bring you comfort. All my love,
Marty Haniuk
June 30, 2007
Carl became one of the most significant people in my life for quite some time after we were both cast as sailors in an Actors Caberet production of "South Pacific" in Eugene during the summer of 1990. Hearing of his passing is a complete shock and I am still stunned. He was someone I knew I could pick up with right where we left off when I would see him. I am sorry we lost track of each other over the years, but I remember the last time I spoke with him at his home during a christmas visit to Eugene several years ago (boy did he love christmas!), the last thing I said to him was that I wanted him to know what a dear friend he had become to me over the years and how much he meant to me. It may sound simple, but how often have we all missed the opportunity to let the people we care about know it? I am so glad, now, that I had the chance to say those words, and I'll never regret having said them. I wish I could have seen him before he was gone, but I will always remember the strong, handsome and generous man he was. I will keep him alive in my memory and never forget him.
Tami, I take comfort knowing you took great care of our friend. Thank you.
Shannon Howard
June 30, 2007
Carl was the best dancer at our wedding! While we haven't seen him in years, his spirit will always dance in our memory.
Kathy Bailey
June 29, 2007
I just found out yesterday that Carl had passed. I was so taken back at first I really could not respond. But a day has passed and although I will miss him I find myself smiling at all the laughs we had so many years ago while working in Eugene together. My sincere condolences to your family for their loss. You will be, forever, missed.
Shelly Corl
June 19, 2007
I'm thinking of you and your family. You will be missed.
I love you Honey!! Tam Tam, Beezus & Bixby
June 19, 2007
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 1998-2007
Nancy Manley
June 18, 2007
Not knowing Carl was ill, it was a shock to see his obit in the paper.I costumed Carl a few times in shows. He was perfect to work with, happy to try different looks, cheerful and professional. In one preformance his role required that he change into 4 or 5 "disguises" during the skit. At fittings he patiently let me photograph him in about 7 costumes in order to get director approval before the show. It wasn't a long day of hard work... it was just hanging out, having fun working with him. We didn't know each other really well,but he even helped me finish a remodel project when he heard I needed help. What a nice man Carl Keller was. Hearing of his passing made me feel a real sense of loss.
It was a beautiful obituary to read, it was so well done that reading it gave me a sense of happiness, even pride in having known Carl.
-Nancy Manley
Scott Michaels
June 18, 2007
Bless you, Carl, and those that love you.
Claude Offenbacher
June 16, 2007
Carl, Tami ..
You have been wonderful members of the VLT family and given so much. All but one the many shows I've had the pleasure of being in at VLT were strengthened by Carl's sets -- and still more by his humility, strong presence and dry wit. Then, there was then pleasure of being a supporting member of a cast that saw him in a strong performance as the male lead in "The Pajama Game". You will be missed, Carl. You will not be forgotten.
John Lafargue
June 14, 2007
I was Carl's manager at GMAC in Eugene for only 5 yrs. prior to moving to Seattle. But how can I say I managed him when he was such a diligent self starter that always got things done. The company sort of abandoned him to do his own thing in Eugene but he surprised alot of people with his tenacity. I would always say I told you he was good! He was a kind generous person and that attitude was reflected in everything he did. I got the opportunity to see Carl three years ago and his hug was just as big as ever! I'll miss him and his love of life.
Debi Farr
June 13, 2007
I hadn't heard that Carl was ill so his passing took me by complete surprise. We became friends as fellow performers in various productions over the years, but it wasn't until 'Leader of The Pack' that I had the opportunity to really get to know Carl. He had so many good qualities...but what really stands out for me was his kindness and big heart. I won't forget his smile and the way his eyes sparkled when he was on stage. I will always cherish our friendship. My heart goes out to his wife Tami, his Father Carl, and the rest of his family.
Debi
Susan Hiskey
June 12, 2007
Carl was such a versatile man.. strong, talented, and generous. Years ago, he gave my young daughter, Michelle a white, long-hair, stuffed cat, with a very long tail. 19 years have passed, and "Kitty" is still around, tail missing, gray and bedraggled. The eyes have been re-sewn, a new mouth made and Michelle still has her, now at UofO! I see "Kitty" and I think of Carl, who was an extraordinary man. He was a great co-worker and a wonderful friend to all that knew him. I will miss him.
Randy Keller
June 9, 2007
Carl .... we were so close in age and yet so far a part. I will dearly miss you cousin. God be with you.
Charlotte Boxer
June 9, 2007
I met Carl through my friendship with Tami. Both of them were puddy lovers just like I am, so we had an instant bond. Carl was a very loyal, kind, and caring human being and Tami has been very fortunate to have had such an unwavering relationship with him. His time on earth was much too short. God Bless Carl, Tami, Bixby and Beezus.
Paula Tendick
June 9, 2007
Well, I'm back. I wanted to thank everyone who has said such wonderful things about Carl. He was truly a loved person. It really tickles my heart to read some of the stories. Carl and Tim worked so well together on their "projects." They really balanced one another and helped each other out whenever it was needed. The first week that we moved into our newly built home Carl and Tim busted a hole in the wall to build stairs up to what is now our "bonus" rooms. He also helped Tim put up the dry-wall. This happened over the course of six years. The day before Carl had to go to the emergency room (the beginning of this journey) he was upstairs with Tim spraying texture on the walls. He wasn't seeing very well and complained to Tim about it. But, being Carl, he really wanted to see it through. Unfortunately, Carl never got to see the finished product that he worked so hard on. We miss him and know that we will see him again, some day and he will, again, help us decorated our digs. Well, he does get a slight reprieve from hearing Tami and me sing T.V. jingles! I miss our Friday dinner and game nights. We had a lot of laughs, sometimes at Carl's expense, but nobody was really safe! Carl enriched our lives and we are grateful that we got to have the time that we did have.
Alessa Hurt
June 7, 2007
I was Carl's and his father's waitress at Pizza Pete's (Willamette St.) every sunday for 5yrs. I looked foward to seeing both of them every sunday and now I miss seeing them. Carl was a very wonderful person and I was glad to have met him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
johnny ormsbee
June 5, 2007
my first incounter with carl was at the Actors Cabaret. we were both cast in rocky, i was playing the creature and carl was a sweet transvestist from transexual transelvania. i remember taking note of him and at that time it was odd fro me not to form opinions of those i meet. carl left me feeling comfortable in his presence. i will miss his smile and the game nights that mindy and i were so fortunate to have been apart of. i will miss his hugs, his laughter and the sense of wellbieng which e exuded. his dedication to his friends was admirable and i thank him for that life leson. see you in the future friend carl.
Debi Reischman
June 5, 2007
My life has certainly been touched by my cousin, Carl. His spirit will live in my heart forever. I can't wait to see his smile and get one of those bear-HUGS when we're reunited (he ought to have heaven redecorated by then!). He is truly an angel who will make God laugh...as he made us laugh.
I would like to express my thanks to Tami, Bill & Bev, and all of his friends for taking such good care of him. I was very happy to have met you during Carl's illness.
Rest in peace cousin...I'll never forget you and I love you.
Emily Gilbert
June 5, 2007
There are not words to express how Carl is already missed. Tami, you are in my thoughts every day.
Love
Emily
Darlene Moyer
June 5, 2007
Dear Tami, You probably don't remember but you and Carl were the two of first people I met at VLT and Cottage Theater in 1999, when I was first working in props and costumes, however my sweetest memory of Carl was when he tried to teach me western swing dance at Agate Hall, I never wanted more to be taller, younger, and slimmer than when trying to dance with that beautiful man. How blessed you both were to have had each other and shared so much.
sandy townley
June 5, 2007
It only took two occasions of meeting Carl to know that he was a very special person to all who had the pleasure of being in his life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tami and kitties. Heaven is very lucky to have him.
Love,
Kent and Sandy Townley, Springfield, Or.
Ronald Skoty
June 5, 2007
Tami,
Just as I think I'm over greiving, more tears fall. Carl taught me a lot about life while here on earth and is continuing the lesson after his transition. He was generous to a fault and meant so much to so many people...who else, but Carl, could have gotten me to jump out of a plane!!!! They say it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all...if that is true, I could die today a truly happy man. I share in your sorrow. May God bless you and give you strength...we may not understand this but it is all part of His master plan.
Linnea Cole
June 4, 2007
Carl was a co-worker of mine. Although we never worked in the same office (as he worked many years in the field) I used to talk with him frequently. We did get to meet during our yearly meetings and the person matched the phone voice. A very caring person and one that will be missed dearly.
Elaine and Skip Twietmeyer
June 4, 2007
Tami..we share your sorrow. Though we never met Carl, we always felt that we knew him, quite well in fact. Bill and Bev. shared so many Carl and Tami stories with us. They told us how very generous Carl was with his artistic and remodeling skills, always ready to share with others. How much Carl loved Christmas and giving to others. Carl left us far too soon, but he left behind a wealth of wonderful memories for so many people.
Frank Geltner
June 4, 2007
Carl, You have earned the right to haunt the environs of the VLT. Your spirit will always have a presence within the collective consciousness of those who labor in the building of scenery. With fond regard!
Denny Guehler
June 4, 2007
Bravo Carl for a life well lived!
Don nau
June 4, 2007
Remembering a couple of shows that I was in with Carl -- lots of fun.
"Never too Late" and him eating those onion and fish sandwiches, playing the drunk scene, what a riot. Thanks for the memories Carl.
Jim and Sandy Gibson
June 4, 2007
We never really knew Carl but Tami grew up in front of us, Jim always called her "STAR" You will always be a star in our eyes in every way, we wish you peace and joy in knowing and sharing the wonderful life with your best friend. The love you shared will last forever.
Geoff Simmons
June 4, 2007
A friend of Tami's would have had to have been a wonderful person. My condolences.
Tara Townley
June 4, 2007
I only had the honor of meeting Carl one time but I saw him in many plays and heard of his legacy through Tami, my cousin, as well as Aunt Bev and Unca Bill. He was such a kind, and funny!, man and I was so glad to finally meet him, even if only the one time. He will be missed, honored and remembered.
Margie Brooks
June 4, 2007
Tami, you and Carl were among the first mimes for Festival of Trees. He could only take us for a couple years, (ha, ha) but the kids really loved him. He will live on through you. Love ya.
Araminta Hawkins
June 4, 2007
The stage is bigger in heaven and according to all who knew him, we are sure he has top billing.
May all that have loved him find peace in the things he taught...
Love,
Araminta
Jan & Duane Schultz
June 3, 2007
God is lucky to have such a talented man. Jan and Duane Schultz
Bonita Aase
June 3, 2007
Losing someone you love is the most difficult situation one will ever face. I know from experience. My advice is to allow yourself the freedom to grieve, let others help you, cry when you need to, know that the sun will shine again and vow to move forward.
Blessing to you and your family.
Don Lewis & Paul Laursen
June 3, 2007
Knowing Tami for what seems like forever, it was natural that Carl would also be part of our lives, and was for many years and always will be. One of our favorite memories of Carl was during a visit to our home. Carl decided to stay behind on an outing to the Casino to "lay by the pool." Actually, after hearing us complain about the hardware in our kitchen, Carl raced to the hardware store, purchased and replaced all 44 handles and pulls in our kitchen with new ones, without asking and without saying a word. When we got home, it was a few hours before one of us finally noticed and totally freaked out that he did such a thing! It was totally Carl. His wit, charm, and giving nature will never be forgotten.
Lydia Lord
June 2, 2007
I cast Carl in his first VLT show, Fiorello, in 1986. He was a delight to work with and listen to, and we went on to work on many other shows together. His positive attitude, singing and dancing skills, and indestructible sets will be long remembered. I'm glad he touched my life.
Liah Rose
June 2, 2007
I've known a lot of "perfect couples" in my life, and am delighted to be able to include "Tami and Carl" in that list. For two dog lovers to take in a scruffy, skinny calico and love her through thick and thin, I knew it was a match made in heaven. I can see Carl now, with Lydia on his lap. I'm also honored to have been there when it all started on the set of "Born Yesterday." I know all our lives are richer for Carl having left his mark on them. Tam-Tam, may time fade only the hurt of loss, never the love or the joy the two of you ever shared. I'm sure Carl's remodeling heaven as I write this, and it will look fabulous.
Debbi Watson
June 2, 2007
I had been working at GMAC for about 6 months when Carl was hired. That was back when he had medium length, blondish, wavy hair (I wish it was only my hair that has changed). Carl and I shared a love for "cool" cars. After I left Eugene, everytime we talked he would ask what kind of car I was driving and I would do the same, knowing it would be something different (until recently when he had a company car -- those are never all that cool). Carl was the most generous person I knew of. If he had $1, he would give you $5 (not just $2). He would always surprise us at work with some creation he had cooked up at home, like his Texas Sheet Cake, or warm apple cake, fresh from the oven. Carl faced some real adversity and tough decisions in the last couple of years and somehow still maintained a positive attitude. There will never be another one like Carl. I was truly blessed to have known him and will really miss him. Tami, thank you for being by his side through the good times and bad. Although I don't believe I've met you, you must have wings.
Scott Barkhurst
June 2, 2007
Carl left his imprint at the Very Little Theatre in many ways, not the least of which were his beautifully contructed sets, which he built for nearly 15 years. In 2002 Carl and I were both cast in OFAM's summer musical "Crazy for You" at the Hult Center. I had a nice secondary role, but much to my surprise (and dismay), ALL the men had to dance in all the production numbers. Carl was an excellent dancer, of course, but to someone like me it was quite a stressful challenge. I'll always be grateful for his extra help getting me through some of the tap dance sections. It was a great production with some great memories.
Peg Major
June 2, 2007
I had the pleasure of working with Carl many times, but most importantly the first time he hit the Eugene stage. My friend Scott and I were putting a show together, and auditioning people, and there was this cute, pleasant,friendly man, in blue jeans and bright white tennis shoes singing his heart out to On The Street Where You Live. He and I did several musical numbers together in that show, including a great tap number, that he learned on the fly. Very talented person. He was always wonderful to my kids, who called him the "strongest man in the world" because he was always working at something. To this day, though Carl and I drifted, my kids remember him, very very well.
His life here was a gift and I am grateful to have known him.
Love you Carl!
Tim and Paula Tendick
June 2, 2007
Our sorrow is deep and our love never ending. We were so honored to have been with Carl in his last days. We are happy that Carl got to meet our little Dylan before he had to leave us. TamTam we love you and, you know.....We will always have the pineapple upside down cake :)!!!!!
Korene Pearson
June 2, 2007
Carl and I met at VLT almost 20 years ago, we had a lot of laughs. It's hard to believe that he is really gone.
Good-by Carl.
Thank you Tami for honoring his wishes even though I am sure it was quite difficult at times.
Love
David SHERMAN
June 2, 2007
I'll miss his wonderful "gruffness" as we'd discuss some set he was building for the VLT. "I'll only build it once" he'd say--so be sure the plans are accurate. I quickly learned his bark was much worse than his bite. Piles of sheet rock attest to the permanance of his legacy at the VLT.
Nancy Corey
June 2, 2007
I met Carl when we worked together at GMAC, and we shared a friendship lasting 29 years. We did remodeling projects together (his & mine), both performed in musicals, and he was the soloist at my wedding in 1989. He was one of the most caring & generous men I have ever known. He will truly be missed! Thanks for taking such good care of him Tami.
Rob Catalano
June 2, 2007
Carl, I only wish I could have seen your white butt at the grocery store. You are missed and loved, but not forgotten. We've got too many photos and incriminating stories for that to happen!
Tami, Tim, Paula, and all who were touched by Mr. K., we're very lucky for the time we shared with him.
Carl, I know you're keeping an eye on Tami and your Dad. Just make sure you and your Mom behave yourselves - we will see you again you know...at least most of us!
Dick & Millie Zentner
June 1, 2007
We never had the pleasure of meeting Carl in person but from what we've learned about him from Tami over the years he certainly was a remarkable person. His obituary was humorous, touching and written to reflect Tami's deep feeloing for her soul mate. Tami, stay strong and positive in the years to come.
Sheila Fish
June 1, 2007
I worked with Carl for over 20 years, he was an awesome friend and co-worker, when I had my daughter Brittany, Carl was always there for me and her. He will be missed by myself and Brittany. Brittany will always cherish the awesome books Carl always sent her at christmas. Carl we love you forever. Tami thanks for always being there to take care of him.
Kristina (Harris) Seleshanko
June 1, 2007
It has been a long while since I've seen Carl, but I've thought of him often. He was a class act, and the world is a poorer place without him.
Darryl Abe
June 1, 2007
I met Carl at Tim and Nicki Fosters Dance Studio. We did a lot of dance performances with this studio and went on to perform in Ed Ragazino's production of Guys and Dolls. Somewhere on the walls of the Hult Center is his autograph.
Carl was very giving and positive. He even tried to teach me how to sing when auditioning for Guys and Dolls but he was not able to perform that miracle.
However I did attend many of his continued performances in Eugene before I moved to Portland.
He contributed to a lot of smiles, laughter and happy memories in my life.
I will miss him.
Rick Lloyd
June 1, 2007
Thanks Carl
Peace Tami
Carol Harmon
June 1, 2007
I will greatly miss Carl. I worked with Carl for almost 20 years until I retired. Seemed like I would run into him at Jerry's as he was always working on a home project.
Kara Churchill
June 1, 2007
Carl was a wonderful and talented individual who will be dearly missed.
Nancy Jones
June 1, 2007
Dear Tami,
I enjoyed reading about Carl, it made me laugh. He sounds like a pefect fit for you and your family. I hope those great memories bring smiles and comfort to you. Take care of yourself.
Love, Nancy
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The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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