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A tribute blog created to celebrate the life and memory of Kevin Ohm. Loved by many, friend to all.
50 comments:
You will be dearly missed Kevin. Thanks for the great HS memories.
Jenny (Campbell) Riebel
You truley had a heart of gold with an infectious laugh. I am sadden (and shocked) by the news of your death. Kevin, you always had a positive outlook on life and treated people with respect and kindness and I believe your time has come far too early. You will be missed.
Nikki Saputo (Campbell)
It breaks my heart to hear what happened to you. Kevin you are truly missed.
Megan (Theis) Lynn
I am so glad I had an opportunity to know you Kevin. I remember finding out you were at the U of M and how happy I was to see a familiar face. It saddens me to know you were burdoned with so much pain inside. Your smile and laugh will forever remain in my memories.
Emily (Howe) Lissick
Kevin I did not know you personally but you went to school with my son, Chad, and I remember your smiling face and all you achievements. God bless you and your family, you were a great kid. Pam Derner
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,
Thank you so much for letting us all know about the wonderful and touching story in the Times Standard newpaper from the Arcata area. Like many of us, I am still in so much stock of the news of Kevin's death and also have so many unanswered questions/thoughts that have me asking myself WHY? over and over. I have been checking Kevin's memorial blog quite frequently and am touched by all the great memories everyone has had with Kevin. I thank you all for sharing your stories and Kevin would be so proud of what he meant to all of us. Even though I may have not made that many memories with him, he is and will always be a special friend to me. I think the friendships we share in HS and beyond live on forever and even though I haven't seen Kevin since HS, I will always cherish memories of seeing one another in the hallways, class rooms, sport events and just being around such a great guy that had such a wonderful smile and thoughtfulness to him. I only wish too that Kevin would have opened up to someone as I know ANY one of us would have helped him in any way in a heartbeat. We love you Kevin.
Jenny (Campbell) Riebel
I thought these lyrics were poignant and appropriate.
How to Save a Life
By The Fray
Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
And you begin to wonder why you came
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
Having known Kevin and his late brother Nathan for years - I am really sadden for his family and loved ones. Being a father to a son myself, I cannot imagine what it feels like. Kevin was a true person in the meaning of the word. I hope that he is in peace. I will always remember the Kasota scrapper Ohm boys and cherish the time I spent with both of them. They are missed.
The best thing Kevin gave to all of us was himelf - always. You knew you had a special person in the room with Kevin. He will always have a place in my heart even though he is no longer in the room. I only wish I had more time with "redwood".
Cy Monley
I am saddened to say that the last time I saw or spoke to you was at Nathan's visitation too many years ago. You are gone but thoughts of you will not be. I will never forget the years working with you at McDonald's, all the "7-Mile Sunday's" after work, and all of the many memories we had with the rest of the Mickey-D's gang. When my mom called to tell me the news I pulled out my old yearbook where you wrote some of the most inspirational things I have ever read - by the way you were one of the rarest kinds of friends..always smiling, always positive, and so kind. I am so sorry that you are gone. Rest in peace Kev.
As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with
your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did.
You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually
lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.
Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.
~anonymous~
I felt these words said it all! Kevin you will truely be missed and I am so glad I had the chance to have you back in my life again for a few short years and I actually got the chance to even tell ya I loved you and that you were such a good friend. I remember that last time we spoke that we you were telling me not to give up on a friendship that I was struggling with and all along I should of been telling you not to give up! Once again though Kevin was putting aside his own problems to help out a friend! Kevin was the definition of friend! I will truely miss you, but know that your time here was well spent!
Kevin, your smile, laugh, and happy spirit will stay with me forever. You will be missed by your many friends.
John Richardson
I will always cherish the memories of you visiting me and Tatiana in Arcata. When me and Tatiana were reminising about his visit, she told me, "He was so nice mom. When he watched me one night he taught me how to play Skipo and Uno. I will never forget him." Although you are now gone, I am so thankful that my daughter had the opportunity to meet you. Like so many of us have said, you were such a wonderful kind-hearted person to be around.
Going to the beach will never be the same, but know that you will always be in my thoughts and prayers when I am there.
KEVIN, YOU WILL BE MISS. WHEN WE LOSS OUR SON, ZACHARIAH, YOU WERE THERE FOR OUR FAMILY AND WELL AS YOURS. YOU STOOD WITH MY OTHER CHILDREN, LUCAS AND BOBBI AND THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT. I WAS SO PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN LIFE. WHEN NATHAN WAS HAVING TROUBLE YOU STOOD BY WITH HIM 100%.
LET GOD TAKE YOU BY THE HAND AND LEAD YOU TO SAFTEY. THERE ARE MANY FRIENDS WAITING TO SEE YOU.
TAKE CARE DEAR FRIEND
ANN MALLOY
I don't think I ever saw Kevin without a smile on his face, and that is how I will choose to remember him. Kevin you were a good friend and a brother to all of the Phi Sigs. I will think of you often and smile.
Jason Ortmeier
Remembering back to junior high when we would get back from gymnastics and wrestling meets/practices late and you and I were able to attend the senior high events. All the dinner bets on who would make it to state first. The encouraging words before each meet and how excited I was to find out how you did the next day. You were my athletic inspiration throughout the seven years.
The bet you and your frat brothers had placed on me to get on the roof of the house and how excited you were to sit and watch the gymnastics olympics with me. Now what other man would have done that?
When you arrived to the reunion you lit up the room with your smile and everyone was so happy to see you. I think you got more hugs then anyone combined that night. The talk at the reuion on the steps with your blanket and how proud you were of me and my accompishments. I often wondered if you were ever going to call me for that lunch date.
I am honored to have had so many happy memories. Your goodness toward others will remind me each day how important is is to be kind no matter what. Thank you for that. You will be in my heart forever.
I was so shocked and still am by the news of your death. It brought me back to when you and your family lost your brother so young...and now you...my heart and prayers go to your entire family. You were such a genuine guy...never stuck up, always nice to everyone. You were so much fun to BS with in school. I will never forget the parties we went to...even when you taught me how to "slam" my beers :) I will always think of you as a truly sweet and wonderful guy. I know that you will be missed by so many and it was too bad that you possibly didn't realize how many people do care for you. Had you known, maybe things would be different now. I trust you are in heaven and will be watching all of us until we meet you again someday. God Bless.
Kevin always made me feel comfortable, even in the most awkard situations. He cared about so many people and was a truly wonderful friend. I can't remember a time when I didn't see him smiling and if there was music playing and some pretty girl out on the dance floor, he was out there dancing and having a good time.
Rest in peace, my friend. I wish I would have known you were in pain, I would have turned the world upside down to help you in any way I could.
I hope to see you again and when we do met, save me a dance.
I was very sad to hear the news of Kevin's passing. I knew Kevin through the greek system and he was such a kind and caring guy with an infectious laugh. I will always remember how he made me smile each time I saw him. We are all better for have known him.
Jenni "Izzy" Isaacson
During our young years where cliques ruled, Kevin, you were a friend to all. In college when we later crossed paths—I’ll never forget walking through the doors of your fraternity house while (nervously) running in Phi Sig’s “Moonlight Girl” competition. When I saw your familiar and friendly face I was comforted. You have truly touched the lives of those you have met— and we are the lucky ones to have known you.
You will be missed.
Christine Howe
Vickie said.........
Words can not explain how deeply sadden I am by your death. Remember the Oreo cookie bars that I ALWAYS had to make in order for Mike to go to State with you boys? I made three pans one time and Coach Drager said that one pan got ate before you had even got to the motel. Thank you and Nathan Bannick for treating Mike with so much respect. All the wrestlers were so good to Mike and always helped him if he needed it. You called me, after something happened in my life, and you told me, "Vickie, you raised Mike so well. He is a pleasure to be around and he has a heart of gold. Whenever I see Mike and that big smile, I realize that I my life isn't that bad." I thank you for those kinds words. I wished you would have called me and talked to me about your pain. I would have helped you in a heartbeat. Your pain and suffering are now gone. You are one of a kind and will be missed so much.
Vickie A. Conlon
...and as I remember many long, grueling hours training, I can see you with your hand on the wall, smiling from ear to ear eagar to get back out for your turn at beating my ass. My best was in part due to the best in you and the inspiration you projected with your every action. I'm a better person having known you Kevin. Your life was not lived in vain.
Bruce Martens
Kevin, I will never forget when you would come over to trade baseball cards with Zac, I got to go to school the next day and brag that the cutest guy in High School was at my house. Then one day went by and took Zac by the hand, and even though our family was going through alot you would just have to smile to make me feel better. Then your graduation came and you promised me a picture. Not only did I get one, I got a 5x7!!!!! I will never forget your bright smile. I know you were going trough alot with your brother, but I know your in a better place now right along side him. Heck you and Zac are probably already trading cards too! -Don't let him rip ya off:)
Miquette's mother said...
I knew Kevin while he was dating my daughter at the UofM. We enjoyed the time we shared at Breezy Point. His love for life and infectious smile will definately be missed. Keith & Kim Weeks
Kevin, You were one of the most amazing people I've had the honor of knowing. Your smile and laughter was infectious.
Through this sad time I choose to remember the great times we had. From hanging out downtown after work...to the time I dragged you to get your eyebrowns done..hey..we were just trying to clean them up a little...funny you swore you could see better after too! The way you talk and sometimes stumble over your words and that thing you did with your shoulder.
I've cried and laughed at the same time. Sad at your untimely passing...but laughing at the jokes you told and times we spent. You had a way of lighting up the area you walked in...and I was privileged to be able to be in your light.
I could never have asked for a better friend. You have no idea how many people's lives you have touched just for being you.
Kevin, you will never be forgotten and always missed. Until we meet again.
I realized today what life really means. We have all felt this at a young age and into our adulthood. Kevin is our age...he is our people. This day made me wonder how I treat other people..We all feel this today. Kevin knows how we are feeling...He knows the world would be a better place if we all treated life and people, the way HE did...
Kevin you will be sadly missed by us all. Now, you will be with your "Bro". You had accomplished so much in life by being a friend a brother and a son. You and Nathan were the men that people wish to be. We miss both of your great smiles, Rest in Peace Kevin.
Jon- AMEN!!!
I was looking through photos and a memory came back to me about my wedding. If Kevin hadn't been there, my dress never would have gotten bustled! Kevin was a man of many talents, all the girls that were there and Kevin was the one that ended up tackling the challenge of bustling my wedding dress! It made me laugh! He also assisted Alex in putting his cuff links on and my sister in applying her lipstick and those are just the things that we got pictures of! Man, he was great! So many good memories!
another AMEN! to Jon's comment...
Kevin was wonderful son in many ways. He wasn't perfect but who is. I remember the time when Kevin, and some of his friends, tore shingles off the city fire department building roof. It was fun at the time , until they had to pay($) for them. Kevin loved to collect baseball cards (buy low sell high). He had a passion for sports. He thought of others before himself. He would help others, friend or stranger. I remember Kevin and his brother Nathan, with our neighbor Joe, building the half pipe bike ramp with me in the back yard. We worked late into the night for many days to get it done. They had so many wonderful times of free style biking. Kevin loved the out doors, fishing, hunting, camping, and biking. Kevin and Nathan were very close growing up. They loved each other as brothers and they very seldomed argued. Even as babies both of them hardly ever kept us up during the night. Kevin had an awesome wrestling career. He started wrestling in 2nd grade. Kevin always had a determination to do best at what ever he was doing. I remember one of the neatest things he ever said that made me so proud to be his father. He had won the Owatonna kid wrestling tournament and was the smallest kid on the platform steps. I believe that he was in second or third grade. The guy that was handing out the awards said to Kevin "How did you ever win first place, you are the smallest one in the group. I know that the man was making a joke, but Kevin made him think twice because Kevin said that "BIGGER DOES NOT ALWAYS MEAN BETTER!!!!!!!!! Needless to say the award presenter pretty much did not have an answer to that.
Kevin excelled in science and math during his high school years. In his senior year he took advanced math classes at Gustavus college. He was vice president of his class during his senior year. Kevin always had a positve attitude and a smile to go with it. I especially remember the first day when he started college at The University of Minnesota. We brought his clothes and stuff to his dorum room. It was a very exciting day to see my son starting college. I am so proud of Kevin for who he was and what he accomplished. I will always remember Kevin as a handsome, kind hearted, free spirited and wonderful son.
I love you son,
Dad
Kevin,
You amaze me. It's clear that you have always had a gift---you are still bringing people together, making them smile, and helping them to believe in the goodness of life. Your gift will be carried on by your memory. May we all find comfort in your peace and the gifts that made you, uniquely you.
To Kevin's mom and dad,
Thank you for sharing an amazing person with us. We were lucky to have Kevin's support and friendship. He was the definition of "good people". May you find peace and comfort in his memory. Bless you both.
Alison (Stienessen)Bridenstine
Kevin,
Over the past couple weeks since learning of your death I feel as though I have a movie constantly playing in my head.
Its a great movie! Lots of fun and adventursome times. In highschool I remember our track meets. In particular in Northfield you and the guys kicked butt in the 4x4. I always remember driving around in your CRX and listening to tunes. We always said that we wished we were blessed with talented voices but just accepted that we weren't. We belted out tunes anyways....then just laughed at each other. Durning the state boys basketball tournement I remember a bunch of us all stayed at the Sofetell Hotel in Bloomington. Someone said that the cops were coming and you and I tore down the hall and down a flight of stairs. Laughing all the way until we busted through a door that was an Emergency Exit and set off alarms through out the hotel. Oops! We really were good kids. Just loved to have a good time. Funny thing is that the cops never came.
Then came college. I remember going up and hanging out with you, and Sully, and Dickensen when you guys lived @ St.Anthony. Playing cards and staying up late. Then one time Jill, Nathan, Chris and myself came for a visit. I accidently spilled a beer on your new speaker system....although you were upset for a moment we played "No Diggity" and things were all better!
A few years later you invited me up to your Frat for an event that you guys were hosting. I could tell how proud you were to be a part of all of that. I always loved reconnecting with you and meeting your next NEW girlfriend. My last memory is from our reunion last year. You looked so great! I treasure our conversation and will never forget the things that you told me! Although my memories will remain contained to these years...I long for the day where we will meet again. As I have ALWAYS told you, your just like a brother to me. Thanks for all the lovely memories!
Rachel
Oh Kevin....
How much pain I feel thinking about your last moments on the beach in Arcata. At the funeral your mom asked me if it was a beautiful place. I told her it was. It will never be the same going there.
You were truly a unique individual, Kevin. I remember countless hours watching you wrestle. You were one of few that treated the cheerleaders with total respect and I am greatful I had an opportunity to thank you for that. You, of course, laughed and said, "Hey, they deserve it. They work hard cheering for me."... as you walked away with that great smirk. I'm so thankful that you TOOK the time to visit with Randi and Tatiana when you went to Arcata in 2005. I'm glad that Tatiana had a chance to meet you. How lucky I am for having known you. I had a fantastic time at state, cheering you on to victory. Having pictures taken of you with me, well....I'll cherish them always. You made a HUGE mark on many, many people's lives, Kevin. You've also taught us a lesson,... to watch out for our family and friends. Like the verse says,
"Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save YOUR life, Kevin"
Rest in Peace Kevin, until we meet again. All of us will miss you dearly.
Connie and Russ,
Thank you for giving all of us the opportunity of knowing such a great person. Kevin will live on in the hearts of many.
Lynn Helfman
you know i don't know kevin, i never met him. i only heard of him, his life, and his death through a friend of his who i work with. these situations are so heartbreaking. trust me, dealing with death is my chosen profession. i know my friend and her loved one are hurting greatly. i just want you to all know kevin seemed like a great guy with a big heart and remembering him, talking about him, and always remembering his family, and keeping them close will help your heart heal. i lost someone very close to me almost four years ago. i use to focus on his death and the memories of those days after i found out he died. now i remember the good times, the good memories, and try not to focus on the reality of his death. kevin will always be with you. i really enjoyed reading all your memories and although i do not know him personally his story has touched my heart.
Kevin, I remember vividly when I first met you at the University of Minnesota. It was a Phi Sigma Kappa event and I was the recruitment Chair that recruited you at the time. I was excited that you had accepted the bid and decided to join our organization. I helped you move into the fraternity house from the dorm, a couple years later, you were the President to the fraternity.
You had an energy about you where you motivated and inspired the guys in many ways. I'll miss you kid.
Kevin, it has been a little over a week since your funeral. There isn't a day that I don't look at that blog site and read something wonderful about you. I know that Mike is still thinking about you and is really hurting. All I can do is listen to what he has to say, smile with him, cry with him, laugh with him and be there for him. I wish you were still here and could go to some of the Mavrick wrestling meets with Mike. He still loves wrestling and he would have enjoyed being with you at the meets. Life is so short and life gives us tons of stuff to deal with. I don't have any idea how your parents keep going without their sons but I do know that their faith in God is a big part of it. I learned a lot, at the funeral, about leaning on God to help us though. Mike just found out that he has osteoporosis in his spine, hip and one knee. He also has developed a thickening around his heart and takes medication for both problems. He doesn't seem real down about it but he does what he can to help himself. Mike learned that strength from you, "don't give up, just keep on trying". I don't know what I would do without my kids. My heart aches everyday for your parents. May God continue to watch over them. This letter has been my therapy. I just want all your friends to take whatever they have learned from you and use it. Show kindness, love, and caring because it makes the world a much better place. Kevin, again I thank you and so many of the wrestlers for all you have done to make Mike the wonderful person he is.
Vickie A. Conlon
Kevin, I feel so lucky to have known you--and will never forget you.
Happy 30th Birthday, Kevin! I hope you're having a Snickers!
Love ya,
Danielle
Kevin,
Mike and I just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday! We saved two snickers to have on your birthday. Mike still misses you but he knows that you are with Nathan and that helps him deal with a lot of things. You have such wonderful parents. They also miss you, a lot, but their faith is so strong that they will deal with anything that is dealt to them.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Mike and Vickie Conlon
Hi Kevin, just a note to let you know that Mike had to have a defibrillator put in his heart on Monday. He was at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester. I have always told him that when he is laying on the table to remember that God is laying on there and that he has his arms around him. When we talked on Thursday night he said he did that but he also said that he knew that his Grandpa Conlon and you, Kevin were also holding him. Thank you for watching over Mike. Mike's heart has stopped a couple of times and he had a seizure that made it start up again. This defibrillator will shock his heart back beating again. I hope it never has to be done. I wish you were here to talk to Mike.
Vickie Conlon and Mike
From Mike Conlon,
Kevin, I am doing much better. I have some new problems but I will get through them too. I miss you so much but I have been able to do a few more things with some people. Nate and I went to BW3's for few, lol, and food. I had such a good time and it was full of great memories. I have also went to a couple of wrestling meets with Trent and then out with the coaches. I feel really blessed that I have Nate and Trent around me. They sure a wonderful guys. My Mom helps me with these blog writings. I am hoping to move in with her soon. Please continue to watch over me. Thank you.
Miss yous still,
Mike
Kevin,
I miss you and think of you all the time.
It's still hard. But some days are better.
I cry only when I'm alone.
with all the love in me-
I knew you struggled. I tried to help. I'm sorry I couldn't. I'm sorry we didn't remain friends, it was just too hard. I'm sorry I didn't even know you were gone until years after. I always hoped things would turn out differently. I never stopped caring.
Just wanted to drop a note to let you know that I think of you often. Your mom has become a dear friend and her strength astonishes me! She inspires me, speaks truth to me often, and lives a life that glorifies God. I doubt your surprised. Anyways, I know that you see the ways in which your death has left its mark on my life. I know that you too see the ways in which God has used it to develop my character and deepen my relationship with Him. I miss you and can't wait for the day to hang out on the other side!
I think of you Kevin every day. I miss you.
David Z
Kevin - I think of you all the time. Sometimes I laugh, sometimes I cry, most often I sigh and smile. I miss you so much.
Ohm,
It's been so many years now, 13 to be exact. I was thinking about you just now and googled your name and I'd forgotten all about this page. Everyone loved you so much. A lot of the sadness I felt when we first lost you has subsided and thankfully now when I think of you I think of the good times we had, usually you with that shit-eating grin on your face looking to do something to mess with somebody. Who knows what you'd be doing these days but I know you would've been awesome at it. You were great at everything. We started a memorial golf tournament in your name, well actually the current active chapter did, it was originally a foundation fundraiser but I slyly coerced it into being an active chapter fundraiser for recruitment and stole it from Jax, I know you'd be proud lol. It's called the Ohm Open and plenty of shenanigans are had. I know you saved my beer that first year I golfed in it. I miss and love you dude. Catch ya on the flip side.
Merks
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