Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie) Jul 2013

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:25 AM

Well said, bard

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Bardford
Date: 24 Jul 13 - 12:07 AM

Aw,jeez.

I don't log in to the 'Cat much more, but do loiter occasionally. A few years back I was Kat's Secret Santa, and afterwards we enjoyed some 'kewl' discussion on the PM side. She also took it upon herself to do some genealogical digging on my behalf, which was very helpful and most welcome.
My own experience with her aside, just from reading various threads and observing her interactions with the rest of this bunch over the years I felt that Katlaughing was consistently one of the most open and generous people I'd encountered, not only on the Mudcat, but on the entire internet. From what I read here, I'm sure this opinion wouldn't change had I had the chance to meet her in 3D.

Like the morning coffee crew down at the Co-op restaurant, or over at the Elks, or the Legion, you get used to seeing the regulars, and their presence defines the place, somehow. Their absence, when it happens, isn't so much an emptiness as a reconfiguring of their presence. This little cafe out here on the great strange plain of the internet has Kat's mojo embedded in it's DNA. It's gonna be weird not having her at the table, but I'll never step through the door here without being reminded that much of what is good here can be traced back to her.

Happy trails, Katlaughing.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 10:16 PM

I spoke to Chris yesterday, figuring he would best know how to break it to him. I'm glad to hear they were having a musical evening - I bet he sang a couple of good ones for Kat.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: YorkshireYankee
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 10:00 PM

I called Art & Carol this evening; could hear laughter, singing & banjo playing in the background. Spoke to Carol, who said some friends had come by and they were having a musical evening.

I decided it was not the time to break the sad news; told Carol I will call back tomorrow.

Carol also told me that Art has just gotten back from being in the hospital for two weeks (for a number of things - including pneumonia). I asked how he's doing now, and she said he's really perky, which is good to hear. However, he's stuck in bed for the time being.

I was concerned how this news might affect Art when he has been so unwell - so I called Chris to see what he thought... Chris told me that someone did call and tell him (i.e. Chris) on Monday - and Chris has passed the news on to Art.

Chris also said that he is hoping Art will be back online again soon, now that he's out of the hospital (apparently it was the second birthday in a row he's ended up spending in the hospital).

I suspect we'll hear from him before too long...

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Don Firth
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 09:15 PM

Kat gone. That was a really hard piece of news to hear.

She was one of the calmer, more intelligent, and caring people on Mudcat. She (along with Catspaw) was one of the first people to welcome me when I first started posting on Mudcat some fourteen years ago.

I regret that I never met her in person. She will be sorely missed.

Don Firth

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:54 PM

Thank you Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Felipa
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:25 PM

a favourite Mudcatter
condolences

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: catspaw49
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 06:04 PM

She called us the "twins" casting me as the Evil Twin. She would follow around cleaning up the cat litter I had covered something with and apologizing to newbies for Spaw. Too long to explain why she called me Peaches as well......Katmyluv.....I will miss her forever.

I am so glad to see so many old timers come out of the woodwork. All remember the way things were and the fun we had when the 'Cat was growing and how exuberant she was over the community and the way it was growing. It was an experience new to us all and the heart and soul she pored into it was what made it what it was. She was very sad when it went over the edge and the fun and joy left the threads.

She loved the various types of song circles and was always active in them no matter they be live or printed or recorded. She loved the poetry of folk music as much as she loved the sound. She loved to write and always had a great time in the collective story writing, this being one of his favorites....The Mudcat Juke Joint

Damn......I will truly miss you forever Katmyluv and so will Cleigh and Cletus and Paw and Buford. We'll sail on aboard The Rainbow but the crew will be lessened significantly. Damn you girl, you had no right to leave us..............

Morgan.....for you.......We have watched you grow up and watched the joy you gave her. If you want to ask us anything we'll be happy to answer, I trust in your Mom to keep us appraised of your progress into adulthood.

One last word here.............damn...............


Peaches, the Evil Twin aka Spaw

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 05:23 PM

So very sad to hear this. I met Kat here - and we shared a friendship from a distance. I treasure the conversations we had and the necklace she made for me. What a gem she was, full of caring, thoughtfulness, generosity and creativity.

~black walnut

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,pete from seven stars link
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 03:09 PM

when the kind and caring are carried away,the world becomes the poorer.i only knew her from posts on the rainbow thread,which she enriched by her presence, blessings   pete,

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Rue
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 02:53 PM

Don't worry I'll be fine
The story is just beginning
I say goodbye to my weakness so long to the regrets
And now I see the world through
Diamond Eyes

Every night of my life I watch angels fall from the sky
Every time that the sun still sets
I pray they don't take mine

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 01:12 PM

What a great image, Bill Sables. Thanks!

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Bill Sables
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:58 PM

Very sad news, I just heard from Allan C. I will never forget the time Allan and I visited her and her family while we were traveling on the "great mudcat adventure" When we arrived there was a map of the USA on her wall and she had put a piece of red wool following our route. She said 'it was an honour that we had visited her' I consider it was the other way around. It was the highlight of the whole trip. I'm sure all the real mudcatters will miss her very much.
Bill Sables

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: MGM·Lion
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:47 PM

Very grieved ~~ I always enjoyed and admired her posts, as I am sure did we all.

Revisiting an old thread about time perspectives, I found a post of hers that showed she was 21 years younger than me. Far too early to die, alas.

Adieu, Kat.

~Michael~

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 11:54 AM

Kat you were very kind to me when I joined Mudcat and hadn't quite got the hang of the etiquette. I also hoped we might meet someday and am sorry that we shan't. All best wishes to your family and friends in this time of great loss.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,foggers
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 11:34 AM

Kat was the gentle soul of the Mudcat, always a wise word and a way of being the oil on troubled waters when things get fractious. Warm thoughts to her family, and a quiet moment of gratitude for her online presence that was so enriching.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: kendall
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 09:29 AM

There are no words. Sleep well,dear one.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Arkie
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:55 AM

This is indeed sad news. Kat was always a positive and supportive voice on Mudcat and her presence will be greatly missed. It is hard to imagine Mudcat without her.   She gave heart to this virtual world. Greatest sympathy for those family and friends in her real world.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Allan C.
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:39 AM

When Bill and I stopped to visit Kat during the Adventure, we were each astonished at the wonderful and most generous welcome we received. Kat arranged and orchestrated a fantastic gathering that, through Rog's electronic wizardry, was shared throughout the Mudcat world. I know I can speak for Bill in saying that the visit with Kat was one of the very best moments of our trip.

It has been quite a while since I last spoke with Kat, but I can still recall virtually seeing her wonderful smile over the phone.

Kat, you will be sorely missed.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: YorkshireYankee
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 08:35 AM

Just checked in for the first time in a few weeks...
Gasped out loud when I saw the thread title.

I knew she had major health problems, but her personality was SO warm and SO full of vitality, it never occurred to me that she wouldn't pull through and be around for years to come. I, too, hoped to meet her someday...

May I suggest -- as a legacy (not the only one, of course) -- that we all try to be kinder to one another here (especially newbies). Before we post something nasty -- or even just unfriendly -- perhaps we could think of Kat and try to remember/follow her example.

A truly Great Spirit has passed.

I will give Art a call (when it gets to be a reasonable time across the pond) -- unless it becomes clear that someone else has contacted him already.

Morgan and Rue -- no apologies needed. You done good. Heartfelt sympathies to you -- and to the rest of your family.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 07:36 AM

Oh no. RIP, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bugsy
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 05:28 AM

I have been away from Mudcat for a week or so and I am so sorry to hear the news of Kat's passing.

Like many of the previous posters, I never met her but felt that we were friends.

My thoughts are with her family at this sad time.

The world is a poorer place without her.

With Love

Bugsy

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: BK Lick
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 04:37 AM

What a treasure trove katlaughing has left us in the Mudcat archives -- 45,433 posts. Scroll to the bottom of the page, click on the box saying "Posts Starting with Oldest" and settle in for a few delightful hours. Start with no. 26, perhaps, from January 1999 wherein she gave us a thumbnail autobiography and the next one expressing her delight in having found this wonderful community. We've lost another very special Mudcatter.

—BK

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: nutty
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 04:35 AM

I've not been on Mudcat much lately but I'm glad I signed in today as I would have hated it if I'd missed this news.

It's been said before but I'll say it again
Kat (together with Max, Joe and Spaw ) was Mudcat - she'd been here forever and her passing is such a sad loss but I can be proud to say I knew her although I never met her.

RIP Kat

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bert
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 03:03 AM

Yes, and when you talk to Rick, tell that old bugger that he still owes me a guitar lesson. And sing a sea shanty for Barry as well.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Naemanson
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 02:17 AM

It feels like someone has taken a bite out of the world and now one of the most important pieces is missing.

Thinking of Kat, the family she left behind, and the rest of us who knew her through these pages.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Arthur_itus
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 01:59 AM

So very sorry to hear such sad news. May you rest in peace Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:48 AM

Hey Kat - please say Hi to Rick Fielding for me, and both of you sing a song or two for us Mudcatters here.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Bob Bolton
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:16 AM

Farewell Katlaughing,

... Another jewel dropped out of the gold band of Mudcat ...

Kat, I hope there is an even better place than Mudcat ... and you are being welcomed there!

BobB

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 23 Jul 13 - 12:13 AM

love & condolences to kat's family - I'm one of the many who wanted to meet kat personally, but "only" knew thru the 'Cat.

Like them I will miss her but at least we can read her words again & again as long as the internet exists. Morgan is so fortunate to have this record of his grandmother.

Like spaw I laughed at the thought of kat & her cats ashes all mixed together.

sandra (almost dry-eyed)

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Neil D
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:59 PM

When I first stumbled on this forum six years ago Kat was the one who welcomed me and continued to make me welcome. To make me feel like the views I shared had worth. She provided me with so much encouragement and positivity in my dark hours and hundreds of us can say the same. Only a truly great spirit can touch so many souls and this sad old world is that much the poorer tonight.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: EBarnacle
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:50 PM

When I saw the title of this thread, my first reaction was a low, "Oh, shit! Kat's gone." Lady Hillary's response was "Where did she live?" I responded, "It doesn't matter. She was everywhere on the Cat." Ave et vale.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Micca
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 11:41 PM

You know this thread made me think of what is inscribed on Sir Christopher Wrens memorial in St Pauls Cathedral, If I might rephrase it slightly (but only slightly) " If you would seek her Monument, look around you".
She was Loved and appreciated and has inspired   all whom she touched, whether it was here in Mudcat or on Paltalk, or in her writings, and I think That is an achievement given to very few.
As for me, She was one of my dearest and best friends and is leaving a hole in my life that may never fill, but she has gifted me this, I am a better man for having known her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Padre
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:35 PM

May she rest in peace.

Padre

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:32 PM

Aw, no! Kat was a virtual friend--virtual in more ways than one. Add me to the list of people who hoped someday to meet her.

My love and condolences to all of her family and everyone else who loved her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Stewie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:26 PM

Vale, kat. Rest in peace.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,Guest Michael William Harrison
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 10:25 PM

Tears and sadness at the passing of Kat. R.I.P. dear lady and know how you were loved.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:57 PM

RIP Kat! Mudcat was made much richer by your participation! Sadly it is also rendered poorer with your loss! My deepest sympathy to your loving family!

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:35 PM

Just got back in to Mudcat after being blocked by my AV for about a week. I was stunned to see this on FB. I had to go back to the OP on FB slightly into my first post to "make it real"... to confirm that it actually happened.

I had to fight tears to post. But... then... I had none. As I said on FB, kat wouldn't want those tears. She would simply want us to care for and look after each other as she did for so many of us.

Thank you kat... love ya. You are one of the good ones. Rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Genie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:35 PM

This news came as a shock to me, too, via Facebook, as I haven't visited the forum much recently.   Many of you have already expressed my feelings about Kat and her taking leave of this earth much better than I can.   She was one of the brightest spots and warmest souls I met on the 'Cat, and I had hoped to meet in person someday.   
I'm so glad Kat's song "That's Not My Colorado" was included on the Mudcat CD "This Is Us: Sky," as was "Morgan's Song" (performed by Morgan himself). I also still have an mp3 of Kat singing another song which we couldn't use on the CD for copyright reasons.   

We have, indeed, lost a good friend, even those of us who never got to meet her in the flesh.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Suffet
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:31 PM

I have been lurking far too long, but let me come out of the shadows for a moment first to shed a tear for Kat, and then to remember all the joy she brought us, including those who only knew her in cyberspace.

Requiescant in pace.

--- Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,kirsten daughter
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:15 PM

My heart is broken....my mom is one of the most amazing persons ever....beautiful in every way....

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Janie
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:07 PM

Nephew Matt and other family members, there is a wonderful wake just getting started below the line, in the BS section. Celebration of the life of Katlaughing. Please enrich our celebration with your presence if you are so inclined!


or look for the thread titled BS: Mudcat Tavern, Special Opening.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: stallion
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:04 PM

a bit of a shock, like many I only knew Kat through Mudcat but this news has set me back. cannot add to what has already been said, so sad.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: GUEST,kirsten kats daughter in ct
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:03 PM

My mom was my bestfriend...always there for me no matter what....she will be in my heart forever....mom....i love you always...love kirstie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Katie)
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 09:03 PM

Thank you everyone... I will be printout this out for Morgan .. so he has it always no matter where he might be. Bill D.. thank you so very much for sharing how to look up all her posts about Morgan.. I'll be printing those out for him too. The more I read the more names I remember her talking about... Big Mick she would love your post .. Morgan will love any CD you send him .. he has always looked forward to them. I will be setting up a Facebook for Morgan .. for any of you that would like to stay in touch with him .. I know he has lots of Mudcat Aunties & Uncles.

Since most of the family and friends are all over the country, across the pond and other parts of the world... I was wondering if you all would like to set up a memorial service online.. I talked with my Dad and he liked the idea.. as you all know she wasn't the most traditional person.. Morgan has already written up what he would like to say for the funeral/memorial and since I don't think we'll have the "normal" service.. cause that's just not my mom... wasn't my mom .. for those that would like to help work that out or take part please let me know.... my Facebook is under Rue Erin

Please let me know if someone has talked to Art & Jackie

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:57 PM

I learned on mudcat's facebook page about Kat's passing, and stopped in here to say how saddened and shocked I am. She was a beautiful, kind, giving person, the kind we wish could live forever. She will live as long as we remember her. These condolences on mudcat are a testament to an exceptional lady, and I want to send my sympathy and love to her family. Rest easy, Kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:52 PM

I can only hope that Kat derived as much pleasure from Mudcat as she provided.It's a poorer place without her.

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: mg
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:51 PM

RIP. Here is a song for her..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3989jHX3sMQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3989jHX3sMQ

how about some sort of collect cd of songs and/or poems

Subject: RE: Obit: For Katlaughing (aka: Kat / Latie)
From: Jeri
Date: 22 Jul 13 - 08:43 PM

Thanks, Spaw.
I've missed her posting at Mudcat and being such a strong voice for good. I'd hoped she'd improve and be around more. I knew she was having a tough time. I also was aware I didn't have a clue how tough.

I think Morgan was the brightest light in her life. I'm glad she shared his light in that glow of hers with us here.