I am so saddened by the news of Lisa's death. She and I battled it out in 2001 at the San Diego One Day track event. It was my first attempt at a distance longer than a marathon. Before that event, I was accustomed to competitive street races where runners' attitudes bordered on being somewhat fierce. I'll never forget how shocked I was when Lisa struck up a pleasant conversation with me somewhere around mile 80! What, a friendly runner? I don't remember if I was leading at the time, or she was, but I recall the standings were quite close so it was odd that a close competitor would waste her valuable breath on saying nice things to me, an ultra rookie - whereas she was an experienced veteran. Lisa really showed me the friendlier side of running, a custom I have tried to continue especially whenever I encounter a newbie. I'm sorry I never got to thank Lisa for instilling in me the notion that competitors can be your friends too.
A memorial service to celebrate Lisa’s life will be held at the Wichmann Funeral Home at 537 North Superior Street in Appleton, Wisconsin on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers her husband requests that donations be made in her name to the Living Desert at:
The Living Desert
Attn: Shirley
47-900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, California 92260-9817
2 comments:
Hi Angela, my name is Eric Kempen and I am Lisa's son. I was deeply touched by your message and just wanted to thank you for sharing your story of my mother. I actually recall her telling me about that particular race and how long it was, running around and around that track. Anyway, thank you again.
Best regards,
Eric Kempen
ebkempen@syr.edu
Eric,
It was my pleasure to share. She was such a positive impact on me that I'm not sure this blog entry could ever truly capture her goodness. I am very sorry for your loss.
Angela
Post a Comment