Kasota Scrapper

Many of us remember Kevin's laugh and kind heart.He was an amazing person and a great friend.It was an honor knowing Kevin and spending time with him.I am thankful to have spent the last year and a half hanging out with him again.His smile would cheer anyone up.I know Kevin is now in a better place.I will miss my friend deeply and thank you for all the memories and laughs.

Matt Leonard

PIN pal

Dear Kevin,
The first year I was manager of the wrestling team, I remember the team going to State. I went to get something to eat and I got lost. I found one of the cheerleaders and she helped me find my way back. I guess we have something in common! You liked the cheerleaders and so did I.
Though I had some disabilities you treated me like one of the guys and that is something I will always remember. It showed me what kind of man you were, so kind, caring and fun to be around. I remembered watching you wrestle for the championship and took second. It brought tears to my eyes to see how much you had accomplished. You and Nathan Bannick treated me so wonderfully and I will always treasure that. My heart and prayers go out to your mom and dad. They raised a wonderful son and should be very proud of it. I love you Kevin and I will miss you so much.

You PIN pal,
Mike Conlon

Great memories of a fishing trip

These are pictures of a Canadian fishing trip in 1995. I got to know Kevin through my son Paul and I have to say Kevin was an impressive young man. I was privileged to see him wrestle. Wow, what an athlete! It was obvious that he was a smart wrestler and the speed that he had was incredible. When Kevin joined our fishing group , he drove up to Canada in his little Honda with a big red canoe attached to the top of the car. He even slept in his car. I really enjoyed the trip, Kevin was so full of fun. Most of all, I remember how he could eat fish and potatoes. Kevin, we will miss you.

-- Jim Grabow

More Highschool Memories...

Kevin and Drew Dixon:
Looks like trouble to me!

Kevin and the Girls at Graduation 1995:
Hummm, kinda funny that Kevin was the only guy in the photo AGAIN! :)
What a stud-muffin!

-- Jill Hass (Tolzman)

God Bless

When I think of Kevin I think of the "Kasota Scrapper." I still remember the day when he had "Kasota Scrapper" placed on the back of his practice football jersey. Everyone just waited to see what Coach Fredlund was going to do or say! But that was what I admired about Kevin. He was a great guy who did his own thing and worked his tail off. God Bless you Kevin.

Pictures from Russ and Connie

God bless this family

Can you say blackmail?

Oh, Kevin, Kevin, Kevin..... your laugh was so unique,I can still hear it now......my heart and mind rest a little bit easier after looking and laughing at these pictures and all the others.....your spirit touches and lives in each one of us everyday and for forever. I now know, you are smiling and laughing down on us all, with no worries or sadness...
"The gift of giving inspiration to others is the gift of life."
you inspired me.......thank you

Until we meet again.......xoxo Ann Wettergren

P.S. These pictures you are about to see can be used for evidence......It was Kevin & Drew's idea! HA!


you sure had a way with the ladies.......that's right, no other man is in site for miles....and he liked it that way!

so this is what you did in your spare time....would that be a game of pheffer? (is that how you spell it?)...is that a busch light?....our parents would be so proud!.......



Drew...can't open your eyes can you!.....Kevin, i think you beat him!!! Callie, what exactly are you doing?

Sleeping standing up...oh wait....that was just the "pop" we were drinking that night.....I swear!

Kevin at Moonlight Girl 98

A 1998 picture of Phi Sigs and our Moonlight Girl.



- David Zamora

Oh what a night!

Once again... the ladies flocked!
I think it's unanimous, that each person you have been in contact with has been blessed by your presence. That smile, that laugh, that amazing heart. Your parents have so much to be proud of in a man like you! SO much! I can only pray that my son can grow to half the man that you are. You always had such respect for others and a joy in your heart. Hello.... you were Snow King 1995! Need I say more?! :)

You'll definitely be missed by all!
Jill Hass (Tolzman)


Kevin with a group of girls ripping up the dance floor at our class reunion...Thanks for always making everything more fun!
- Julie Poppen

Kasota Rats

Growing up together was nothing less then great, and although we may have added a few grey hairs to our mothers, we had a lot of fun along the way. To be Kevin's friend, neighbor, and teammate was a honor in itself. He had the heart of a champion and was one to admire. Thanks for everything.

-Ryan Woelpern

12 Years Ago Today!

Times Standard article about Kevin

To all-
The was a very nice article printed in the Times Standard, the paper in Arcata, CA, about Kevin. If you are interested in taking a peek, the URL is http://www.times-standard.com/local/ci_5117523

- Danielle (Spiess) Bannick

In Memory of You - Michelle

Shortly after college, Kevin became one of my roommates, and friends. Its been a little, but he is definitely a difficult boy to forget as he tends to run across my mind as an inspiration for obnoxious endeavors. I wanted to post this picture I took of Kevin on the Millennium New Years Eve, and leave you with his contagious smile right in the middle of his very close friends.

Kevin, a moment of silence in memory of you ~ Michelle

My Favorite Kevin Memories - Roger Kuznia

I remember when Kevin was crowned Snow King, and we were taking pictures afterward. One of them with Kevin and I made it into our yearbook, and anytime I paged through that yearbook since, it has made me smile because Kevin was such an outstanding guy.

I also remember when all the wrestlers would run the hallway around the gym, and as we basketball players went to get a drink of water, we'd step in front of a few of the younger ones to playfully break their pace and mess with 'em a little bit. I never did that to Kevin, because I knew how hard he worked. I mean, did you see all the pins on his letter jacket?

Finally, I remember going to the U of M for a campus visit following juco graduation, and wouldn't you know, Kevin was one of the tour guides. Though I didn't end up going to school there, it was great to see him, because he found a way to make you laugh.

Thanks for being you, Kevin.

Roger Kuznia

Contagious Laugh

Kevin, I can still picture the smile upon your face as we pass in our high school halls, hear the encouraging words you spoke to your fellow classmates, and I can still HEAR your contagious laugh in my head. Your kind heart and upbeat personality will be greatly missed in this world. I am honored to have known you in my life and will always cherish the memories I have of you.

Love Jessi Leonard (Gumbel)

Turn Back the Pages

I was going through some old boxes in the basement looking for some long lost pictures of Kevin in action. I found a few. I enjoy looking back at all of us. I'm sure he would, too.

Here he is in Mrs. Potts' 5th grade class-- cute little guy on the right.

... nice dew, Ward.

Kevin with the bright young graduating confirmation class of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Big Man #20 down in front.

Kevin gets Student of the Month accolades .

...smarty pants

The King is crowned.

Last , but not least, Kevin after a hard match. Caption reads:

Kevin Ohm waits to shake hands with the cheerleader.

...typical.


I'll miss you, Kevin. Peace to you.
-Drew

Thoughts of Kevin

Danielle and Kevin 1996 SPHS Snow Week

I have so many questions that will never be answered. What was he thinking and how could he be so deeply depressed, yet still able to hide this from his family and friends? This tragedy does not define Kevin’s life because the Kevin that I know is not capable of carrying out this act. Feelings of guilt and constantly going over what could have been done to prevent him from doing this have been occupying my head. Kevin’s death cannot be in vain, if you need help, get help, there is no shame. If you know someone that needs help, help them. Err on the side of caring too much, go with your gut, it isn’t prying, it’s concern. Kevin’s death has sent a shockwave through a group of people, so vast, that I don’t even think he realized the amount of friends that he had amassed through is thirty short years on this earth. This isn’t the first time that we have felt Kevin’s impact though. Kevin had the most energetic, infectious personality and people were drawn to him. Kevin was an extremely loyal, dependable and sincere man, who displayed unfailing friendship to many. I have two sons of my own now and I can only wish that they will have the type of drive and dedication that Kevin displayed. Connie and Russ you should be very proud of the son that you raised. Remember Kevin’s laugh and that smirk he ALWAYS had on his face, what a great guy! Anyone that can count Kevin as a friend understands the true meaning of a gift, even if it was for a short while. You will truly be missed, you have touched my heart!

I love you, Kevin!

Danielle

My Buddy!

My best buddy! You have always been like a brother to me. Thank you for all the memories, for always being here for me, and encouraging me to be a better person. I am so proud of you and all of your achievements in life. Your loving and generous spirit has earned you the respect and honor of ALL of us. My heart is deeply broken and I will miss you greatly.

Love you always, Rach

Kevin and Rach 1995

A Friend and Inspiration

You pushed me to work harder everyday and in the end it paid off. You showed me what it took to be the best at something and you lead by your actions not just your words. You are an inspiration to me and I am a better man for having known you. You will never be forgotten. I love you.

Thank you, Kevin

Kevin will be missed... by all of us-- friends from the old high school, fraternity brothers at the UofM, and those he met thereafter.
Thanks for the good times, buddy.

Images of Kevin

1995 SPHS gradutiaon with Nathan Bannick

Kevin's SPHS Senior Picture

Helpful Information on Depression, Suicide, and Grief

All of us who loved Kevin would do anything to prevent the disease that killed him from taking another life. Ignoring the facts or avoiding the situation is NOT the solution. So here are some very important links that will help educate readers on the complexity and severity of Depression and what can be done to help someone who is battling with this disease.

I have also listed some information that may give everyone insight into Grief and Bereavement and how to find help for yourself and others to get through this process.

Click on the titles below:

• Depression Facts
• Grief After Suicide
• Finding Help - List of Minnesota and National organizations and phone numbers

Helpful links to national and local organizations/support groups:

• Depression Is Real Coalition, National
• iFRED (International Foundation For Research and Education on Depression), National
• SA\VE (Suicide Awareness\Voices of Education), Minnesota
• SOS (Survivors Of Suicide), Web

Depression Facts

Clinical Depression
Depression is a medical illness just like cancer or diabetes. It is not just feeling "blue". Sadness or feeling "blue" are normal feelings that eventually pass. Feelings associated with depression last longer than a couple of weeks. If someone has depression, they can't talk themselves out of it. it is not due to weakness or a character flaw. It isn't some one's fault. Depression affects the whole body - feelings, thought, physical health, behavior, appearance and all areas of a person's life. Home, work, social life, school are all affected. Depression can be treated successfully for most people just like other illness.

Causes of Depression
Depression is triggered by a complex combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors. Genetic means that in some families, depression is inherited - through genes. Psychological makeup refers to personality traits ans environmental factors means life circumstances. The brain is an organ of the body, just as are the heart, liver, kidneys, etc. If the chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) regulating how people think, act and feel, get out of balance, illness results in the brain and the result can be depression. Bad or stressful life events can trigger depression. Sometimes, it occurs unexpectedly, when everything is going just fine and there is no reason to get depression. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of.

Who Gets Depression
Anyone can get depression. Depression occurs in people of all ages, ethnic and economic groups, and race. Males and females - children and adults can get depression. More than 19 million people living in the United States are affected by depression every year.

Recognition of Depression
Because depression affects thinking, often people do not recognize that they have a treatable illness. They may not be able to think clearly or rationally or believe they can't be helped. Severe depression can cause thoughts of hopelessness and helplessness. The number one cause of suicide is untreated depression. Early recognition and treatment of depression can save lives.

Treatment
In 90% or more people, a combination of antidepressant medications and therapy works to treat depression. There is help. A person can feel good again!!

Possible Symptoms of Depression
Below are several common symptoms of depression . there can be other causes for these symptoms too, so it is important to discuss them with your doctor.

• Increase aches and pains
• Irritable
• Feelings of sadness
• Crying easily or more frequently
• Sleep disturbance - unable to sleep or sleeps too much
• Loss or increase in appetite
• Weight loss or gain
• Tiredness or fatigue most of the time
• Difficulty enjoying things - loss of pleasure
• Difficulty concentration
• Discouraged/hopelessness
• Self-Dislike
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Loss of energy
• Indecisiveness
• Isolation from family/friends
• Loss of interest
• Suicidal thoughts or wishes
• Decreased sex drive

Signs To Watch For - Suicidal Behavior

• Deepening depression
• Final arrangements
• Suddenly elevated mood
• Risk taking or self destructive behavior
• Presuicidal statements

If an individual will not allow you to take them to a clinic, hospital or crisis center, it is not a breach of confidentiality for you to report them to a therapist, MD, police, etc. Be persistent. Do not trust that they will get help on their own. Do not leave them alone if the crisis is acute.

Grief After Suicide

Grief After Suicide

• Know that you can survive. Though you may feel you cannot survive, you can.
• The intense feelings of grief can be overwhelming and frightening. This is normal. you are not going crazy; you are grieving.
• You may experience feelings of guilt, confusion, anger, even fear. These are all common responses to grief.
• You may even have thoughts of suicide. This too is common. It does not mean that you will act on these thoughts.
• Forgetfulness is a common, but temporary side effect. Grieving takes so much energy that other things will fade in importance.
• Keep asking "why" until you no longer need to ask.
• Healing takes time. Allow yourself the time you need to grieve.
• Grief has no predictable pattern or time line. Though there are elements of commonality in grief, each person and each situation is unique.
• If you can delay making major decisions, do so.
• The path of grief is one of twists and turns and you may often feel you are getting nowhere. Remember that even setbacks are a kind of progress.
• This is the hardest thing you will ever do. Be patient with yourself.
• Seek out people who are willing to listen when you need to talk and who understand when you need to be silent.
• Avoid people who try and tell you what to feel and how to feel it and, in particular, those who think you should "be over it by now".
• Give yourself permission to seek professional help.
• Find a support group for survivors that provides a safe place for you to express your feelings or simply a place to go to be with other survivors who are experiencing some of then same things you are going through.

For information on grief support groups for suicide survivors, call Suicide Awareness\Voices of Education (SA\VE) at 612-946-7998.

Finding Help

Finding Help - Minnesota

Crisis Numbers

• Hennepin County Medical Center's Crisis Intervention Center: 612-347-3161.
• Ramsey County: 651-523-7900.
• Abbott Northwestern Hospital (Mpls.) - Suicide Assessment Line: For parents and caregivers concerned about a teen. 612-863-8633.

Educational Materials, Advocacy, & Support Group Information

• SAVE (Suicide Awareness\Voices of Education): Information on depression and suicide prevention. 1-888-511-SAVE or 952-946-7998.
• Minnesota Depressive and Manic Depressive Association (MDMDA): Information on depression and bipolar illness and support group information. 612-379-7933.
• Minnesota Association of Children's Mental Health (MACMH): Parent support group information. 1-800-528-4511 or 651-644-7333.
• Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network of MN: Consumer organization dedicated to self-help, education, and advocacy. 651-637-2800.

Suicide Survivor Grief Support Groups

• South Mpls - Lutheran Church of Christ the Redeemer. JoAnne Dunstan 952-944-2478, Vicki Bresson 763-566-4063. (2nd & 4th Tues, 7-9:00pm)
• Edina - Men's Breakfast Group @ Pearson's Restaurant. Pat Gromek 952-882-1246 or Don Sandberg 763-544-7315. (2nd Sat of the month, 8:30am)
• Golden Valley - Valley Baptist Church. Bev Chipman 763-424-9418. (1st and 3rd Tues, 7-9:00pm)
• Coon Rapids - Mercy Hospital. Gail Noiler 763-422-4594. (Mondays 7-9:00pm)
• Brooklyn Park - Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. Mark and Linda Steinberg 763-786-2112. (2nd & 4th Thurs 7-9:00)
• Stillwater - First Presbyterian. Anne Weaver 651-439-4380 x16. (2nd and 4th Monday 6:30 to 8:00pm)

Finding Help - National

National Crisis Numbers

• 24-Hour National Suicide Number 1-800-SUICIDE
• Boys Town National Hot line 1-800-448-3000

National Suicide Prevention Organizations

• SAVE - Suicide Awareness\Voices of Education. 1-888-511-SAVE, http://www.save.org/.
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. 1-888-333-AFSP, http://www.afsp.org/.
• American Association of Suicidology. 202-237-2280, http://www.suicidology.org/.

National Mental Health & Consumer Organizations

• Depression Awareness, Recognition and Treatment Program - D/ART, National Institute of Mental Health. 1-800-421-4211, http://www.nimh.nih.gov/.
• National Foundation for Depressive Illness. 1-800-248-4344, http://www.depression.org/.

Personal Helping Resources

• Personal Physician/Nurse
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Family, Friends, Co-Workers
• Clergy
• Support Groups

Memorial Services

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM on Thursday February 1, 2007 at New Creation World Outreach Church in North Mankato, with burial in Woodland Hills Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday at the church beginning at 10:30 AM.

St. Peter Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements and they may be contacted by phone at (507) 931-2750 or by email at stpeterk@hickorytech.net.