Dear all:
I have realized that there is a limit to the size of comments.  I would suggest you write your comments in a text editing program (like Word), and then copy and paste into the comments field.  Add comments to any of my posts; I'll catch them all.  If the site refuses to add them, then email them to me and I will include them as a post.  Again, though, if you don't want them included here let me know, and I'll just save them for the final book.
It was wonderful to meet so many of you at the memorial service, and to know how much love and support is surrounding Regina and the kids right now.
Polly

The following comment is from Willy Hereman:



Dear Regina, Jessica, Christopher,
Dear family members and friends,

My name is Willy Hereman, or "Willy, the Belgian" as Ken would call me. I'd like to share with you two short stories to illustrate Ken's unassuming friendship and creative talent.

I met Ken for the first time when I joined the Colorado School of Mines in August 1989, more than twenty years ago now. Ken was teaching mathematics at Mines. The secretary introduced us. Ken and I chatted for a half hour and I found out that we were living on the same street in Boulder. As many of his friends experienced, I felt naturally drawn to Ken, the optimistic and sincere man, with a great sense of adventure. When I met Ken again near the end of my first week at Mines. Ken asked "Willy, what is up in Boulder this weekend?" "I have a busy weekend coming up," I replied, "My stuff from Wisconsin is still in storage. I will rent a truck and take care of the move." Ken said: You will need help! He paused, and asked "What is the largest piece you have?" "A full size mattress and matching spring box," I replied. "No need for a truck," Ken said, "I can put that mattress and spring box on top of my car." And so it went. Ken, who I had known less than a week helped me with my move which took the better part of a saturday. I thought if all people in Boulder are as nice and helpful as Ken then I certainly picked the right place to live! Ken was the first person I knew in Boulder and he has a special place in my heart. I had a great time in Boulder with Ken and his friends, and later also with Regina and her friends.

The second story narrates my first glimpse at Ken's talent as an artist. Halloween night, 1991. My house mate Genie and I are hosting a pumping carving party. Ken is there with several of our Boulder friends. All of use are frantically carving the typical scary faces with square teeth, except for Ken. He is staring at his pumpkin, turning it, staring and turning, contemplating what to do.
That went on for several minutes and we were wondering what he was up to. Suddenly, he got to work and transformed the pumpkin into the face of a lovely cat, with whiskers and all.
I said, Ken you are an artist! He grinned and said: "Willy, you did not see the cat inside?"

Whatever Ken touched turned into gold. His creativity and passion were an inspiration for us. A devoted husband, a loving father, a trusted friend, a creative spirit, a beautiful mind, and caring soul. Reinhilde and I treasure the memories of your friendship and love.