Monday, September 29, 2008
A Father's Tribute
We often think that if a child turns out well, the parents must have done a good job. I think the opposite is true, too: a good child can make any parent look good! Sometimes I think this was the case with Devon. She had a quality about her—subtle, like a little breeze—that made everyone around her feel good and be better. Her infectious smile and joyful spirit left an indelible mark on all of us. As a daughter, she could make a good father out of a most ordinary man.
When Devon was two we took her to Flintstones Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. She loved all the characters—Fred, Wilma, Bamm Bamm, Dino, Hoppy and the Great Gazoo—but her favorite was Pebbles. She ran up to Pebbles and gave her a big hug. She and Pebbles looked like twins, so from that day on I called her Pebbles. That was a happy moment, one of thousands I’ve had with her. For the rest of her life I’d call her Pebbles just for fun and she’d sign my father’s day cards or birthday cards, “Love, Devon, Your Pebbles.”
It is easy to idealize Devon. From her earliest days in social activities—whether it was hugging a Flintstone, playing with her friends or being part of more formal organizations, like soccer teams, Indian Maidens, ballet class, or a Munchkin in the Wizard of Oz—she could read the cues of people around her and respond appropriately—a hug for those who needed one, a pass to someone in the open field, sharing a bullfrog with a friend who couldn’t find one on her own. She had a finely tuned social intelligence.
Throughout her childhood Devon developed as if she were on autopilot. We only had to feed and clothe her and drive her to her activities—school, soccer, the dentist, a friend’s house—and then pick her up later when it was time. She was so independent—I should say, healthily interdependent—that she almost evolved on her own. I felt lucky to be such a participant-observer in a loving child’s life. The job seemed simple: Support Devon in doing what she wanted. Follow her: she knows where she’s going! As someone posted on her blog, Devon was “a person you couldn’t say no to!” –either because you knew she was right or you knew if you did say no, you’d regret it later! She had, as someone else wrote, “the ability to gently disarm you” without your knowing it and recruiting you into her service. Devon was an easy child to raise, if ‘raise” is the right word. She had advanced leadership skills by age 9!
I was fortunate to be Devon’s father, though at times I felt I had to live up to some pretty high standards! She literally showed me ways to be better at what I am, as a person, a father and a teacher. Three years ago, she showed me how to make PowerPoint presentations and set up my own blog! I was an old-school chalk and blackboard professor and a simple writer! I had fun with the new skills she gave me. I made nice slide presentations for my classes and wrote a lot of illustrated essays on the blog she set up for me. She was a good teacher, very patient with her forgetful and slow-learning dad, emailing me the same instructions over and over again on how to grade papers online using the Insert and Comment features.
Devon seemed born with the ability to do the right thing at the right time. She had a built-in guidance system, an awareness of the moment, of being in the moment, and of knowing whom she was with. While she was accepting of life, she was driven as an artist is driven to shape the stuff of life into the image of her ideals. She was unstoppable in the pursuit of her goals. When The Lion King came out on DVD in 1994, she persuaded me to buy it and watch it with her. It was about a father lion, Mufasa, and his son, Simba, and how the son had to overcome conflict within himself to rise up and take his rightful place in the pride, in “the circle of life.” She knew I’d like it because of my work conducting fatherhood workshops. She knew I’d connect with the story’s theme, voiced by Simba’s slain father in deep tones coming down from a darkened sky: “Simba, look inside yourself. You have forgotten who you are. Look deep. You are more than what you have become. You must take your place in the Circle of Life.” Devon was 14 at the time and I was going through some personal struggles. Following her instincts, she led me to look inside myself through this animated drama and be more than what I had become. That afternoon I wrote an essay about fatherhood which was later published in the Fresno Bee. We all have emotionally significant events in our life, personal turning points, small bursts of insight—or, in this case, a quantum leap of understanding! Being nudged by Devon, driving with her to the store, buying this DVD, watching it with her at home, and then writing an essay that integrated for me my place in the “circle of life”—this was a major emotionally significant event. I imagine for Devon, watching and enjoying a DVD with dad, it was something deeper, too.
One of the more memorable moments I’ve had with Devon occurred the day she came home from school after having a unit in world religions. She was 16. She asked me, “Dad, What am I.”
We had never been active in any organized church or religion, so, given the context of her question, I said, “Well, you are whatever you choose to be. It’s your decision to make.” She then asked, “Well, what are you?” This was more difficult. I described my childhood identity growing up in a large, devout Irish-German Catholic family and how I had de-activated that identity during my university years and replaced it with something more philosophical and nebulous, like an existential-humanistic-phenomenological view of myself and the world. I then got concrete and told her that I was simply trying to live my life by being honest, caring, fair, hard-working and open-minded…with the emphasis on “trying.” I’m sure I lost her with the abstract mumbo jumbo talk, but she did get the basics—honesty, caring, hard-working, fair. I sometimes wonder if she learned to be these things or if they were just in her DNA! What struck me most about this discussion, though—the “teachable moment,” as we call it—is that she asked ME what she was. I thought of how much trust we place in people when we ask them to explain to us who we are. We wouldn’t ask a stranger, “Who am I?” Only someone we trust. I felt another notch of responsibility in this moment and sensed, too, that a shift had occurred in Devon’s development: She was seriously probing the depths of her spiritual identity.
Over the next 12 years, on up until her very last week, Devon continued working out her own answers to the question of who she was. Judging by her writings, the perceptions we all have of her, and the way she conducted herself on the last day of her life, it’s clear she succeeded in achieving a self-confident and well-integrated view of herself. She was authentic, genuine, exuberant and real—a measuring stick of how we might be. A mirror: In her we saw a reflection of pure principles—honesty, fairness, compassion, love of others, intelligence, organization, efficiency, confidence, competence, a great work ethic—the qualities of a beautiful and well functioning human being! How profound is her loss, how deeply we will miss her!
For Devon there were no complaints, no excuses. She believed we are as much the producers of our own destiny as we are products of our past. We are not victims, not martyrs, but determined men and women facing with vision, discipline and moral purpose every challenge life places in our way. She understood that we are interconnected with each other, whether we want to be or not. She was empathic yet maintained healthy boundaries. Her life exemplified how we continually create ourselves through our choices—in school, in friendships, in our work, in all our relations. We either do the right thing or we learn to do it. Even on the very last day of her life, she was trying to get nurses and doctors and her parents to do the right thing, directing us to rub here or there on her neck, organizing in her mind how she was going to get to work next week and use that giant desk and the table and chairs she had us gather from all around Los Angeles to get her work done.
But it was not meant to be.
“There comes a point in everybody’s life,” the novelist James Patterson wrote, “when you realize the stakes have suddenly changed. The carefree ride of your life slams into a stone wall and all those years of bouncing along, of life taking you where you want to go, abruptly end.” So it was with Devon—an abrupt and cataclysmic end to such a meaningful, vibrant life.
Maybe the most enduring lesson to be drawn from Devon’s life is about love and friendship. I experienced Devon’s love and friendship in a very special way, as everyone else did in their own special way. To me she was not just a good daughter—she had become in the end, a very special friend. The poet Gibran wrote that one effect of friendship is “the deepening of the spirit” and that when we part from a friend we needn’t grieve too long, for “that which we love in our friend may be clearer in her absence, as the mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.” Today, Devon is the mountain and we are standing on the plain.
Louis F. Markert
Asako Kudo-Markert, Devon's Step-Mother
I want to share my memories about Devon.
The first time I met Devon was at a soccer field. She was 16 years old. It was in the fall of 1996. I had just come from Japan to begin working on my master’s at Fresno State to become a psychotherapist. Devon immediately accepted me as her dad’s girlfriend and welcomed me. We lived together 1.5 years, mostly during her senior year in high school. She was always active and having fun with her friends. Her daily life was filled with friends and activities. She came home from school, had her friends over or went out with them, or she studied, went for running, or relaxed in her room. She was also a very good student and efficient in her studies. I remember that she didn’t want to do swimming in the PE class because the chlorine turned her hair green. When I cooked, she said, “Eeh!” to seaweed and Japanese food, but loved my blueberry cheesecake. One day Devon began screaming, “Daddy! A storm came to my room!” Then, her dad vacuumed her room. After that, I could finally see the pink carpet on the floor. I had many culture shocks, including having the big dog Morticai sleeping on devon’s bed and seeing Devon making a green or purple color cake, but it was fun. I wish I could have spoken English then like I do now so we could have more conversations.
I remember our short trips. Once Lou, me, Devon and Stephanie went horseback riding in the mountains above Huntington Lake. Another time we camped out at Yosemite. The girls hiked up Half Dome. At night a raccoon tried to steal Devon’s backpack. When she was graduating from high school, she and I went downtown in Fresno to choose a dress for her prom. Lou and I attended a special dinner for Honor Students at her high school. I am glad that I was able to be a substitute mom for her while Di was working hard in LA.
When Devon went to Santa Barbara, she totally enjoyed her life there. She was blossoming into a talented, attractive and extroverted woman. She traveled all over the world, making friends everywhere. She loved people and people loved her. She learned life skills from her friends, particularly Tonya, who became her roommate and confidante and greatest role model.
In 2002 my brother was married in Japan and my mom invited Dev to the wedding as a gift for her graduation. At that time she was in Spain finishing up her school. My family loved Devon and she enjoyed Japan. She wore a traditional kimono and looked very beautiful. She also experienced a tea ceremony at my friend’s home. This was particularly special because very few homes have a tea room. She enjoyed traditional Japanese food, but didn’t say, “Eeh!” this time. One day she took a picture of a public toilet in Tokyo. It had a button to make a flashing noise to disguise the natural sounds of our going to the bathroom. She was impressed how sensitive Japanese were to each other, even in the toilet. We shared a lot of fun and many funny moments like these during our two week vacation in Japan.
At their wedding party, Devon and Noureddin looked very happy. They developed their friendship and deepened their love in Long Beach. She became an excellent ESL teacher. One of my Japanese friends was her student and always told me how efficient and wonderful Devon was as a teacher. I knew she was capable and was very proud of her.
Devon was a wonderful step-daughter to me. I felt that I was like her step-mom/big sis/aunt/friend. I wasn’t sure who I was for her but it didn’t matter. We had a good relationship. She was definitely my family. She will be missed forever. When I saw a young girl wearing new style pants, I caught myself thinking like, “Oh, this might be good on Dev.” Then I felt very sad that I don’t have her any more. We have to keep our life without her, not just living but living fully and alive because this is also what Devon would want us to do. Devon, thank you for being my step-daughter.
I also want to say a special thanks to Devon’s co-workers, Karla, Portia and John, and all the teachers and staff at Torrance Unified School District, for all that they did during Devon’s illness. Also, a special thanks to all her and Noureddin’s friends for all you’ve done to make Devon happy during this past year and a half. Because of all of you, Devon was able survive and enjoy her life. And last, a special thanks to Tonya, Stephanie and Christian for organizing and coordinating Devon’s memorial service. Devon left her will, asking them to do so because she was concerned that Noureddin and the parents would be too grieving. She was right…again! Devon must be very grateful and proud of you guys.
Thank you so much.
The first time I met Devon was at a soccer field. She was 16 years old. It was in the fall of 1996. I had just come from Japan to begin working on my master’s at Fresno State to become a psychotherapist. Devon immediately accepted me as her dad’s girlfriend and welcomed me. We lived together 1.5 years, mostly during her senior year in high school. She was always active and having fun with her friends. Her daily life was filled with friends and activities. She came home from school, had her friends over or went out with them, or she studied, went for running, or relaxed in her room. She was also a very good student and efficient in her studies. I remember that she didn’t want to do swimming in the PE class because the chlorine turned her hair green. When I cooked, she said, “Eeh!” to seaweed and Japanese food, but loved my blueberry cheesecake. One day Devon began screaming, “Daddy! A storm came to my room!” Then, her dad vacuumed her room. After that, I could finally see the pink carpet on the floor. I had many culture shocks, including having the big dog Morticai sleeping on devon’s bed and seeing Devon making a green or purple color cake, but it was fun. I wish I could have spoken English then like I do now so we could have more conversations.
I remember our short trips. Once Lou, me, Devon and Stephanie went horseback riding in the mountains above Huntington Lake. Another time we camped out at Yosemite. The girls hiked up Half Dome. At night a raccoon tried to steal Devon’s backpack. When she was graduating from high school, she and I went downtown in Fresno to choose a dress for her prom. Lou and I attended a special dinner for Honor Students at her high school. I am glad that I was able to be a substitute mom for her while Di was working hard in LA.
When Devon went to Santa Barbara, she totally enjoyed her life there. She was blossoming into a talented, attractive and extroverted woman. She traveled all over the world, making friends everywhere. She loved people and people loved her. She learned life skills from her friends, particularly Tonya, who became her roommate and confidante and greatest role model.
In 2002 my brother was married in Japan and my mom invited Dev to the wedding as a gift for her graduation. At that time she was in Spain finishing up her school. My family loved Devon and she enjoyed Japan. She wore a traditional kimono and looked very beautiful. She also experienced a tea ceremony at my friend’s home. This was particularly special because very few homes have a tea room. She enjoyed traditional Japanese food, but didn’t say, “Eeh!” this time. One day she took a picture of a public toilet in Tokyo. It had a button to make a flashing noise to disguise the natural sounds of our going to the bathroom. She was impressed how sensitive Japanese were to each other, even in the toilet. We shared a lot of fun and many funny moments like these during our two week vacation in Japan.
At their wedding party, Devon and Noureddin looked very happy. They developed their friendship and deepened their love in Long Beach. She became an excellent ESL teacher. One of my Japanese friends was her student and always told me how efficient and wonderful Devon was as a teacher. I knew she was capable and was very proud of her.
Devon was a wonderful step-daughter to me. I felt that I was like her step-mom/big sis/aunt/friend. I wasn’t sure who I was for her but it didn’t matter. We had a good relationship. She was definitely my family. She will be missed forever. When I saw a young girl wearing new style pants, I caught myself thinking like, “Oh, this might be good on Dev.” Then I felt very sad that I don’t have her any more. We have to keep our life without her, not just living but living fully and alive because this is also what Devon would want us to do. Devon, thank you for being my step-daughter.
I also want to say a special thanks to Devon’s co-workers, Karla, Portia and John, and all the teachers and staff at Torrance Unified School District, for all that they did during Devon’s illness. Also, a special thanks to all her and Noureddin’s friends for all you’ve done to make Devon happy during this past year and a half. Because of all of you, Devon was able survive and enjoy her life. And last, a special thanks to Tonya, Stephanie and Christian for organizing and coordinating Devon’s memorial service. Devon left her will, asking them to do so because she was concerned that Noureddin and the parents would be too grieving. She was right…again! Devon must be very grateful and proud of you guys.
Thank you so much.
Carlee Barnes
My mind has been working tirelessly to try to understand and grasp Devon’s death since I saw her on Friday. I think it keeps on trying to search for a reason or a cause but it is exhaustingly inexplainable. Instead, I have tried to focus on what Devon has taught me and her legacy and keeping about an intention to retain her spark through my actions. I met Devon through Ruthie when she was living in the Alvocado. I had mentioned that I love the apartments in the complex and she invited me up right away. It was like we had known each other for years – she was so open and generous and like a child who shows a friend that comes over their room – their personal space – we became friends instantly. I thought it was amazing that her and Noureddin spoke to each other in their second language – Spanish and I thought she was amazing for her passion for English Language Learners. I was new to Long Beach and Ruthie and Devon and I were on a mission to have girl time whenever possible. We started a book club, and by book club I mean we all bought the same book – Love in the Time of Cholera – but I was the only person to actually finish it…it was an ongoing joke for a while…
I keep finding little gifts that Devon had given me and holding on to them even tighter now. she made me a keychain when my son was 3 months old. My son is almost 3 and I haven’t changed the picture and I don’t intend to – she told me what a pain it was to cut out the pictures to fit inside the flower-like design and I know she probably spent quite a bit of time on it knowing her…it was so thoughtful – for no reason she gave that to me – that was Devon. Her gift-giving abilities like Ruthie said were truly amazing. They showed her thoughtfulness and also her ingenuity – I passed by a Big Lots today and cried…she was amazing at finding the best stuff at that store and always bragged about it – always updated us on hidden sales and Costco specials. Along with her gift giving her planning was also impressive. I read some of her co-workers blog entries and laughed because when ruth and devon babysat my son once devon turned it into a power point presentation! Whenever I was having a party I called Devon and Ruth to help. They are the only people I know that drool over to do lists and planning…she always had ideas – she even knew where I should get a hula dancer for my husband’s 30th luau party. This was her list for me to do… she basically planned the whole party complete with recipes…
Hey C,
This is what I recommend:
· rent tables and chairs
· get table cloths, plates, napkins at big lots
· at costco get silverware, hawaiian rolls, alcohol, frozen meatballs, brie, veggie plate, cut up and canned pineapple, clear plastic cups, water bottles. they have lots of flowers too that would be good as center pieces.
· at trader joes get mango chutney
· at smart & final they have sweet and sour sauce and other party stuff that costco doesnt have.
appetizers
· shrimp (recipe from allrecipes)
· sweet and sour meatballs
· mango chutney brie (recipe from allrecipes)
· veggie plate
drinks
· I recommed making a large bunch of alcoholic punch, a bunch of hawaiian martinis and get the beer of people's choice
· water bottles
·
Love,
Devon
I am going to miss her so much. It goes beyond saying how unfair it is. She had an entire life ahead of her. I want to honor her through my life in little ways by her generous and thoughtful spirit – through her sense of humor and positive outlook – through her happiness and contentedness through her contagious smile and resourcefulness. I won’t be able to do it half as well as she did, but maybe through practice i can be better at it.
With much love,
Carlee
I keep finding little gifts that Devon had given me and holding on to them even tighter now. she made me a keychain when my son was 3 months old. My son is almost 3 and I haven’t changed the picture and I don’t intend to – she told me what a pain it was to cut out the pictures to fit inside the flower-like design and I know she probably spent quite a bit of time on it knowing her…it was so thoughtful – for no reason she gave that to me – that was Devon. Her gift-giving abilities like Ruthie said were truly amazing. They showed her thoughtfulness and also her ingenuity – I passed by a Big Lots today and cried…she was amazing at finding the best stuff at that store and always bragged about it – always updated us on hidden sales and Costco specials. Along with her gift giving her planning was also impressive. I read some of her co-workers blog entries and laughed because when ruth and devon babysat my son once devon turned it into a power point presentation! Whenever I was having a party I called Devon and Ruth to help. They are the only people I know that drool over to do lists and planning…she always had ideas – she even knew where I should get a hula dancer for my husband’s 30th luau party. This was her list for me to do… she basically planned the whole party complete with recipes…
Hey C,
This is what I recommend:
· rent tables and chairs
· get table cloths, plates, napkins at big lots
· at costco get silverware, hawaiian rolls, alcohol, frozen meatballs, brie, veggie plate, cut up and canned pineapple, clear plastic cups, water bottles. they have lots of flowers too that would be good as center pieces.
· at trader joes get mango chutney
· at smart & final they have sweet and sour sauce and other party stuff that costco doesnt have.
appetizers
· shrimp (recipe from allrecipes)
· sweet and sour meatballs
· mango chutney brie (recipe from allrecipes)
· veggie plate
drinks
· I recommed making a large bunch of alcoholic punch, a bunch of hawaiian martinis and get the beer of people's choice
· water bottles
·
Love,
Devon
I am going to miss her so much. It goes beyond saying how unfair it is. She had an entire life ahead of her. I want to honor her through my life in little ways by her generous and thoughtful spirit – through her sense of humor and positive outlook – through her happiness and contentedness through her contagious smile and resourcefulness. I won’t be able to do it half as well as she did, but maybe through practice i can be better at it.
With much love,
Carlee
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Maria
Devon was my computer teacher at Griffith Adult School, and writing about her breaks my heart. She was a wonderful person who inspired and influence many people around her, and when I think of her the very first thing that comes to my mind is her smile, so I a smile too. I still remember the way she used to talk to me and I feel her supporting hand resting on my shoulder. She was so sweet that really hurts to think that she’s gone. I know she is in heaven surrounded by angels welcoming her. She’ll never be forgotten. She’ll be always in my heart.
With Great Sadness my Deepest Condolence,
Maria
With Great Sadness my Deepest Condolence,
Maria
Andrea Brodsly
I worked with Diane in the early 90's while she was at Jefferson in Clovis. I remember her talking about her kids all the time, being involved in the kids soccer. It is hard to believe that her little girl had grown up to be a teacher just like her mom. I am so sorry to hear of Devon's passing. My thoughts will be with you.
Andrea Brodsly
Andrea Brodsly
Parking for Funeral on Monday
Just a quick note about the memorial services on Monday. If at all possible please carpool as there is limited parking. If you have any questions please send an email to: rememberingdevonmarkert@gmail.com.
See you all on Monday.
See you all on Monday.
Bill Saleebey
Waiting For the Yellow Rose to Bloom
It was January 24, 1980 and I was staying with Lou and Di in their apartment the day before my final oral exam for my doctorate at UCLA. I had fallen asleep, and in the middle of the night, they came running out of their bedroom, headed to the hospital. Devon Danielle Markert was born the next day, and I remember her birth as if it were yesterday. I was always Uncle Bill to Dev and Cory. Lou is my best friend, and I have seen Devon grow from that little kid with the bright blue eyes and crooked grin to the wonderful accomplished woman that she became. She was always the sweetest, kindest and most positive person you could find.
The Markerts stayed with me in Berkeley in the early 80s, and I stayed with them in Pleasanton and visited them often in Fresno and Clovis. I remember Devon playing soccer and we watched the movie Wildcats together with Cory and my son Billy. We were family. The ultimate honor was when Devon and Noureddin asked me to perform their wedding ceremony, which I did at my home. They took many pictures in front of the yellow rose plant in my front yard. I am hoping that another yellow rose blooms so I can take it to the memorial service on Monday.
I was reading the other entries on the blog, and it reminded me that we all knew Devon in a different way, a different context. Noureddin as her husband and love of her life, her parents, step-parents, and brother Cory, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, friends,co-workers, and of course Poppy. I always loved that Devon called me Uncle Bill. To her I was no less an uncle than her biological uncles. To me she was simply a niece. A niece I was quite proud of at that! I loved hearing Lou telling about her accomplishments at work.
The death of a young person is especially hard to understand and to take. It is deeply sad, and it hurts. But from this, as Devon would say, come lessons, strenghth and inspiration. What would Devon want? I think she would want us to stay connected to one another, especially her friends and cousins. She would want us to go on with our lives, and to remember her. We will always remember Devon Markert. She was one of a kind: wife, daughter, sister, cousin, friend, co-worker, mentor, teacher. She knew what people needed, as her friend said. She was a great hostess, if not the neatest. I remember visiting her and Noureddin in Long Beach shortly after her diagnosis. She had a big spread of cheese and crackers on the table when we arrived, even though she didn't feel well. She never complained.
We are all better for having had Devon in our lives. Her life was brief, but she made the best of it. We all have our unique memories of her, which no one can alter or take away. We also should be inspired by Devon's example to be kind, upbeat, generous, loving and to enjoy what life has to offer. I urge everyone to hang in there as she would have done and would have wanted.
I am waiting for that next yellow rose to bloom, and I will keep it forever in her memory.
I'll miss her...
Uncle Bill Saleebey
It was January 24, 1980 and I was staying with Lou and Di in their apartment the day before my final oral exam for my doctorate at UCLA. I had fallen asleep, and in the middle of the night, they came running out of their bedroom, headed to the hospital. Devon Danielle Markert was born the next day, and I remember her birth as if it were yesterday. I was always Uncle Bill to Dev and Cory. Lou is my best friend, and I have seen Devon grow from that little kid with the bright blue eyes and crooked grin to the wonderful accomplished woman that she became. She was always the sweetest, kindest and most positive person you could find.
The Markerts stayed with me in Berkeley in the early 80s, and I stayed with them in Pleasanton and visited them often in Fresno and Clovis. I remember Devon playing soccer and we watched the movie Wildcats together with Cory and my son Billy. We were family. The ultimate honor was when Devon and Noureddin asked me to perform their wedding ceremony, which I did at my home. They took many pictures in front of the yellow rose plant in my front yard. I am hoping that another yellow rose blooms so I can take it to the memorial service on Monday.
I was reading the other entries on the blog, and it reminded me that we all knew Devon in a different way, a different context. Noureddin as her husband and love of her life, her parents, step-parents, and brother Cory, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, friends,co-workers, and of course Poppy. I always loved that Devon called me Uncle Bill. To her I was no less an uncle than her biological uncles. To me she was simply a niece. A niece I was quite proud of at that! I loved hearing Lou telling about her accomplishments at work.
The death of a young person is especially hard to understand and to take. It is deeply sad, and it hurts. But from this, as Devon would say, come lessons, strenghth and inspiration. What would Devon want? I think she would want us to stay connected to one another, especially her friends and cousins. She would want us to go on with our lives, and to remember her. We will always remember Devon Markert. She was one of a kind: wife, daughter, sister, cousin, friend, co-worker, mentor, teacher. She knew what people needed, as her friend said. She was a great hostess, if not the neatest. I remember visiting her and Noureddin in Long Beach shortly after her diagnosis. She had a big spread of cheese and crackers on the table when we arrived, even though she didn't feel well. She never complained.
We are all better for having had Devon in our lives. Her life was brief, but she made the best of it. We all have our unique memories of her, which no one can alter or take away. We also should be inspired by Devon's example to be kind, upbeat, generous, loving and to enjoy what life has to offer. I urge everyone to hang in there as she would have done and would have wanted.
I am waiting for that next yellow rose to bloom, and I will keep it forever in her memory.
I'll miss her...
Uncle Bill Saleebey
Julie Pinkston
I clicked on Devon's blog last weekend---just checking, hopefully, to see if she had posted one last entry since her poignant entry "500 Miles". I couldn't believe what I saw instead: an incredible bouquet of loving tributes from her friends, colleagues, and students! It was as if the seeds of friendship Devon had sown in so many hearts had sprouted overnight from all the tears shed for her and blossomed into a beautiful garden!
As someone who likes to garden, I have observed this phenomenon after a good soaking rain and it confirms my belief that much goes on unseen that we have little control over. I remembered how after her second surgery last summer I tried to help Devon start a garden, bringing her a pot, soil and seeds for radishes, nasturtiums and sunflowers. I see now how much she already knew about planting seeds---in human hearts and minds.
Devon is just a few months younger than my older daughter, Jennifer, and they played together often as young children. She was the youngest and smallest cousin for a few years, but it was evident very early that Devon was a force to be reckoned with! The strong wills of both her grandmothers showed up in Devon! I would watch her playing in the crowd of cousins as a small child. Tiny Devon would focus her blue eyes intently on finding an opening, then launch herself into the the midst of things with fierce determination, laughing with gusto at being part of the action.
We were disappointed when Devon and her family moved away to Fresno, but when the girls were in their early teens, I took a job transfer to Fresno so my family also moved there. It isn't easy when you are a teenager needing your own space, but I never heard Devon complain about having to share her house with me and my two girls for a few months. (Maybe it helped that once in a while Aunt Julie would cook a somewhat edible meal!)
As a teen, Devon showed the same focus and determination I had seen in her as a small child, exceeding expectations in school and sports---in spite of life being often rearranged at home. Although she otherwise seemed quite independent and self-confident, the social acceptance and comaraderie of her close circle of friends was very important to her, providing a much needed balance of youthful fun and establishing connections she would rely on for years to come.
Devon graduated and left Fresno and I didn't see her much for a few years, but had news of her college success, her stay in Spain, and her marriage to Noureddin.
After I moved back "home" to So Cal in 2004, I saw Devon more frequently--at family birthdays and holidays usually. One family Christmas 2 years ago, I watched this poised and lovely young woman across the room, enthusiastically playing games with her younger cousins and laughing uproariously (her infectious laugh!) It struck me that not only had Devon become a mature adult member of society with a responsible job, a college degree, and loving husband, but she seemed to have selected the best attributes of various family members and role models--parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, etc, and incorporated them along with her own unique personality into someone who gave back her very best in full measure to the people she was with, young and old. Her grandmothers would both have been proud of her---getting together with family, playing games, talking, laughing, taking pictures... just enjoying life to the fullest! I was very happy for my young niece, who had done so much in so few years. Devon was so many things to so many people: a rising star, an angel, a precious flower, bright, beautiful, courageous, determined, devoted, loving wife, daughter, granddaughter, friend, teacher.
We could list all the adjectives and all the nouns and then start on the verbs in talking of Devon. I am more of an observer, but Devon was definitely a person of action. I can hear her saying---not sure if I remember or if I'm projecting what I need to hear---"Just Do It, Don't worry whether you have it right or what people will think, Just Say It!" Definitely Devon would tell us: "Go, See the World, Reach Out to people, Smile, Laugh, Love life, Love each other every day you are given, for you don't know how many days you will have.
One can not comprehend why someone young, healthy and vibrant like Devon should get brain cancer or why our medical system couldn't come up with a cure for her. She fought the tumor with such amazing courage and determination. It was unthinkable that our Devon couldn't persuade the experts to do what needed to be done to help her. We all wanted to believe if anyone could beat the odds, Devon would. I watched her fight back from three surgeries, chemo, radiation and more chemo, wanting to do more, wishing I knew more that might help her. But we ran out of time and her body just couldn't come back anymore. It is so very hard to say goodbye when it seems you've just barely said hello. But I knew I had to be there to witness her leaving us last Friday nite.
Devon has done her 500 miles, and left us to carry her spirit forward in our lives. Thank you, Ruthie and all of you for thinking of this way to honor Devon and keep her memory alive. It is especially appropriate for someone who embraced technology and lived connectedness!
Thank you, dear Devon, for all you gave to each of us. My heart is with Noureddin, Diana, Lou, Cory, Poppy, Asako, Alan, Marla, Jason and all of Devon's family and friends as you grieve her loss. We will miss you.
With all my love,
Aunt Julie
As someone who likes to garden, I have observed this phenomenon after a good soaking rain and it confirms my belief that much goes on unseen that we have little control over. I remembered how after her second surgery last summer I tried to help Devon start a garden, bringing her a pot, soil and seeds for radishes, nasturtiums and sunflowers. I see now how much she already knew about planting seeds---in human hearts and minds.
Devon is just a few months younger than my older daughter, Jennifer, and they played together often as young children. She was the youngest and smallest cousin for a few years, but it was evident very early that Devon was a force to be reckoned with! The strong wills of both her grandmothers showed up in Devon! I would watch her playing in the crowd of cousins as a small child. Tiny Devon would focus her blue eyes intently on finding an opening, then launch herself into the the midst of things with fierce determination, laughing with gusto at being part of the action.
We were disappointed when Devon and her family moved away to Fresno, but when the girls were in their early teens, I took a job transfer to Fresno so my family also moved there. It isn't easy when you are a teenager needing your own space, but I never heard Devon complain about having to share her house with me and my two girls for a few months. (Maybe it helped that once in a while Aunt Julie would cook a somewhat edible meal!)
As a teen, Devon showed the same focus and determination I had seen in her as a small child, exceeding expectations in school and sports---in spite of life being often rearranged at home. Although she otherwise seemed quite independent and self-confident, the social acceptance and comaraderie of her close circle of friends was very important to her, providing a much needed balance of youthful fun and establishing connections she would rely on for years to come.
Devon graduated and left Fresno and I didn't see her much for a few years, but had news of her college success, her stay in Spain, and her marriage to Noureddin.
After I moved back "home" to So Cal in 2004, I saw Devon more frequently--at family birthdays and holidays usually. One family Christmas 2 years ago, I watched this poised and lovely young woman across the room, enthusiastically playing games with her younger cousins and laughing uproariously (her infectious laugh!) It struck me that not only had Devon become a mature adult member of society with a responsible job, a college degree, and loving husband, but she seemed to have selected the best attributes of various family members and role models--parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, etc, and incorporated them along with her own unique personality into someone who gave back her very best in full measure to the people she was with, young and old. Her grandmothers would both have been proud of her---getting together with family, playing games, talking, laughing, taking pictures... just enjoying life to the fullest! I was very happy for my young niece, who had done so much in so few years. Devon was so many things to so many people: a rising star, an angel, a precious flower, bright, beautiful, courageous, determined, devoted, loving wife, daughter, granddaughter, friend, teacher.
We could list all the adjectives and all the nouns and then start on the verbs in talking of Devon. I am more of an observer, but Devon was definitely a person of action. I can hear her saying---not sure if I remember or if I'm projecting what I need to hear---"Just Do It, Don't worry whether you have it right or what people will think, Just Say It!" Definitely Devon would tell us: "Go, See the World, Reach Out to people, Smile, Laugh, Love life, Love each other every day you are given, for you don't know how many days you will have.
One can not comprehend why someone young, healthy and vibrant like Devon should get brain cancer or why our medical system couldn't come up with a cure for her. She fought the tumor with such amazing courage and determination. It was unthinkable that our Devon couldn't persuade the experts to do what needed to be done to help her. We all wanted to believe if anyone could beat the odds, Devon would. I watched her fight back from three surgeries, chemo, radiation and more chemo, wanting to do more, wishing I knew more that might help her. But we ran out of time and her body just couldn't come back anymore. It is so very hard to say goodbye when it seems you've just barely said hello. But I knew I had to be there to witness her leaving us last Friday nite.
Devon has done her 500 miles, and left us to carry her spirit forward in our lives. Thank you, Ruthie and all of you for thinking of this way to honor Devon and keep her memory alive. It is especially appropriate for someone who embraced technology and lived connectedness!
Thank you, dear Devon, for all you gave to each of us. My heart is with Noureddin, Diana, Lou, Cory, Poppy, Asako, Alan, Marla, Jason and all of Devon's family and friends as you grieve her loss. We will miss you.
With all my love,
Aunt Julie
Kim Vass
Hello everyone,
My name is Kim Vass and I am a childhood friend of Devon's. Devon named my daughter, Meadow. I had plans to visit Devon which had to be rescheduled due to the move. Devon was an angel. She was my first friend in elementary school at Cole Elementary. I have great pictures from our childhood which I would like to post if I can please get that login info. My mom Nancy, who is a close friend of Diana's, just left to attend the funeral on Monday. I am unable to go now but will be down in the near future to visit, pay my respects and hopefully meet all of you and share our experiences and love for Devon. My email kvassk4k@yahoo.com. I love you Devon, I know you are with our Father in Heaven. My deepest condolences to Nordeen, Di, Lou and Corey.
~Kim Vass
My name is Kim Vass and I am a childhood friend of Devon's. Devon named my daughter, Meadow. I had plans to visit Devon which had to be rescheduled due to the move. Devon was an angel. She was my first friend in elementary school at Cole Elementary. I have great pictures from our childhood which I would like to post if I can please get that login info. My mom Nancy, who is a close friend of Diana's, just left to attend the funeral on Monday. I am unable to go now but will be down in the near future to visit, pay my respects and hopefully meet all of you and share our experiences and love for Devon. My email kvassk4k@yahoo.com. I love you Devon, I know you are with our Father in Heaven. My deepest condolences to Nordeen, Di, Lou and Corey.
~Kim Vass
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Karen
Remembering My Little Cousin Devon...
When I think back to my childhood, I have the greatest memories of all my Markert cousins. We were a big bunch and a fun bunch who spent many weekends, summers and holidays together. From the moment Devon was born there was just something extra special about her. Her light blonde hair, big Markert blues eyes and infectious smile, she was just the sweetest little girl. Since I'm the youngest of four, I always looked at Devon as my baby sister I never had. She was so precious as a little girl.I moved away from California 18 years ago and missed seeing Devon grow into the amazing women she became. Reading these recent postings about Devon and how she inspired so many doesn't surprise me at all. We are all blessed to have known her. I remember one of my first trips back home to see the family and a bunch of my cousins, including Devon, all got together to hang out and catch up! We cruised the beach being silly and jammin out to the radio and then went for frozen yogurt. I still remember what Devon was wearing, dark jeans with those strong soccer legs and a simple white t-shirt. She was beautiful, happy and upbeat as always. Her smile gorgeous and eyes that lite up the room, just like they did when she was little....( my tears begin)Through emails and blog postings like so many of you who knew Devon, I am deeply inspired by her and so sad that she is gone. Through her difficult treatments and dead ends, she was so brave and full of life and hope. Her positive energy and spirit never left her and it will never leave those of who knew and loved her.Devon, an angel on earth and now our angel in heaven. Forever we will miss you and forever we will love you.
Love Always,
Your cousin Karen
When I think back to my childhood, I have the greatest memories of all my Markert cousins. We were a big bunch and a fun bunch who spent many weekends, summers and holidays together. From the moment Devon was born there was just something extra special about her. Her light blonde hair, big Markert blues eyes and infectious smile, she was just the sweetest little girl. Since I'm the youngest of four, I always looked at Devon as my baby sister I never had. She was so precious as a little girl.I moved away from California 18 years ago and missed seeing Devon grow into the amazing women she became. Reading these recent postings about Devon and how she inspired so many doesn't surprise me at all. We are all blessed to have known her. I remember one of my first trips back home to see the family and a bunch of my cousins, including Devon, all got together to hang out and catch up! We cruised the beach being silly and jammin out to the radio and then went for frozen yogurt. I still remember what Devon was wearing, dark jeans with those strong soccer legs and a simple white t-shirt. She was beautiful, happy and upbeat as always. Her smile gorgeous and eyes that lite up the room, just like they did when she was little....( my tears begin)Through emails and blog postings like so many of you who knew Devon, I am deeply inspired by her and so sad that she is gone. Through her difficult treatments and dead ends, she was so brave and full of life and hope. Her positive energy and spirit never left her and it will never leave those of who knew and loved her.Devon, an angel on earth and now our angel in heaven. Forever we will miss you and forever we will love you.
Love Always,
Your cousin Karen
Ms. Thone Ritch
I’ve literally known Devon since before she was born. Some of my best earliest memories of her are of her beautiful platinum hair flying and her sparkling white teeth as she laughed and raced around playing with her cousins, either in my home or her aunts’ homes. These memories are followed by memories of her talks of her soccer games, travels, teaching experiences, and the love of her life, Nourdin. She was so proud of him, how wonderfully well he could cook, how lovingly he cared for her grandmother, Betty Noke, how much he loved her, etc. Devon and Nourdin were one of the handsomest of couples, their love of life radiating to all around them.
Diana Pendley, Devon’s mother, and others tried desperately to locate possible clinical trials and to seek out sources where money could be borrowed in an effort to save Devon’s life and send Devon and Nourdin to live in whatever states those rescues could be achieved. But Devon’s poor body could not keep up with her sprit; the trial studies were not to be.
If we turn from what we wanted for Devon, a long life, and look at what she did achieve, there is a bitter sweetness there. She accomplished so much in so short a span of time. She lived so fully that most cannot begin to live as completely as she did.
Devon will certainly live on through Nourdin, her students, and all her friends and family, as hopefully they will live by her example of getting everything possible out of life, however short or long.
Ms. Thone Ritch
Diana Pendley, Devon’s mother, and others tried desperately to locate possible clinical trials and to seek out sources where money could be borrowed in an effort to save Devon’s life and send Devon and Nourdin to live in whatever states those rescues could be achieved. But Devon’s poor body could not keep up with her sprit; the trial studies were not to be.
If we turn from what we wanted for Devon, a long life, and look at what she did achieve, there is a bitter sweetness there. She accomplished so much in so short a span of time. She lived so fully that most cannot begin to live as completely as she did.
Devon will certainly live on through Nourdin, her students, and all her friends and family, as hopefully they will live by her example of getting everything possible out of life, however short or long.
Ms. Thone Ritch
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Valentina
Dear Devon,
I believe you are in heaven, you deserve that. Devon was my English teacher in Griffith School, Room 1.She was so professional, sweet and patient. She taught me a lot: about English and computers. She inspired me as a teacher and as a person. She will be my inspiration forever. I will keep good memories of her in my heart. She will be always in my prayers. With Great Sadness and Deepest Condolence,
Valentina
I believe you are in heaven, you deserve that. Devon was my English teacher in Griffith School, Room 1.She was so professional, sweet and patient. She taught me a lot: about English and computers. She inspired me as a teacher and as a person. She will be my inspiration forever. I will keep good memories of her in my heart. She will be always in my prayers. With Great Sadness and Deepest Condolence,
Valentina
Sanghee Lee
The Great Memories with Devon at Griffith
The first time I met Devon was 4 years ago in the Media room at Griffith adult center. I still remember when she greeted me with her bright smily face in the room. Devon was so intelligent, positive, happy and fun, and such a warm-hearted young lady.
Devon always was a good listener. Whenever I talked about my personal stories with her, she always listened my stories interestingly. Two years ago in Fall, Devon joined room 1 friends private dinner meeting, so we went to the most popular Korean crab restaurant at the Redondo Beach pier. I was only Korean among us so I ordered some steamed crabs and korean dishes included sashimi (raw fish and sea food). Everybody wore a plastic bib for preventing from messy their shirts while they pounding a wooden hammer to break the crabs' legs on the table. It was so funny looking. And, Devon even the first try to eat a piece of a raw sea cucumber that some other friends didn't even try, but she just swellowed it and she said " it tastes so weired." That comment made us laughed so hard. We had very fun dinner time together I never ever forget.
The first time I met Devon was 4 years ago in the Media room at Griffith adult center. I still remember when she greeted me with her bright smily face in the room. Devon was so intelligent, positive, happy and fun, and such a warm-hearted young lady.
Devon was the first person who taught me how to do "chicken dance" and " hocky pocky dance" at the auditorium stage in the Torrance Park for the summer term ending festival in 2004.
Devon always was a good listener. Whenever I talked about my personal stories with her, she always listened my stories interestingly. Two years ago in Fall, Devon joined room 1 friends private dinner meeting, so we went to the most popular Korean crab restaurant at the Redondo Beach pier. I was only Korean among us so I ordered some steamed crabs and korean dishes included sashimi (raw fish and sea food). Everybody wore a plastic bib for preventing from messy their shirts while they pounding a wooden hammer to break the crabs' legs on the table. It was so funny looking. And, Devon even the first try to eat a piece of a raw sea cucumber that some other friends didn't even try, but she just swellowed it and she said " it tastes so weired." That comment made us laughed so hard. We had very fun dinner time together I never ever forget.
Both Devon and I went to the same school, Cal state Long Beach. In the spring term last year, she was in graduate program and I was in undergraduate program. We often had met on the campus walk way so we could have short talks about our classes each other. When I complained about my difficulty of study in English, she understood my situation and comforted me feel better. "Sanghee, you can do it. Don't worry I'll help you". that was Devon! I wrote these Devon's memories with deepest sympathy from the bottom of my heart.
Sanghee
Yoonjung Hong
Dear Devon,
I believe you are in heaven nearby our God Father very peacefully....
I still remember you very clearly.
You was my first esl class teacher in room 1 four years ago....
At that time, I was very shy to speak English but you encouraged me very nicely. It was really sweet and helpful.
I will keep good memories with you in my mind.
Love,
Yoon
I believe you are in heaven nearby our God Father very peacefully....
I still remember you very clearly.
You was my first esl class teacher in room 1 four years ago....
At that time, I was very shy to speak English but you encouraged me very nicely. It was really sweet and helpful.
I will keep good memories with you in my mind.
Love,
Yoon
Monday, September 22, 2008
Branka Marceta and TIMAC
I met Devon towards the end of her participation in TIMAC as a [Link]Cohort 2 member. I was very impressed by her presentation in May 2006 (you can see the 13 minute video of that presentation at http://drop.io/devonmarkert, along with some photos of her during TIMAC ). We met again, later on that year, at NECC in San Diego (July 2006). We were both very excited about the sessions we attended about technology integration in education. We also had a very nice dinner at a Brazilian churrascaria and spent hours enjoying food and good conversation. It was very interesting to learn about how Devon spent some time in Spain where she met Nourredin. Their relationship had many parallels to mine with my husband, one of us being an immigrant and a non-native speaker. It was my first time eating at a churrascaria, and now it will have a very special place in my memory because it was with Devon. The following school year we asked Devon to be a Super Mentor for our new TIMAC Cohort 3, because we knew how great of a fit for a support mentor she was - very professional, yet caring and enthusiastic about technology in education. She agreed to do it and we were very pleased because we knew that the new teachers in TIMAC are in very good hands with Devon’s kind moral support and strong technical skills. In October 2006, Devon attended a rap-session by Technology Enhanced Language Learning Interest Group with CATESOL (California Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages). I gave her my camera to snap photos and take videos. You know how it usually takes a little bit of time for most people to learn how to use a new gadget? Not Devon. She picked it up right away.
Then in March of that school year the news came about the headaches and the tumor. Since that faithful time, we have been following her amazing fight, being very hopeful that she would be back with us and TIMAC very soon. Devon has touched many of our lives and we will miss her immensely. She will live on through the wonderful relationships she has formed with many of us and through the fruitful results of her work with her colleagues and ESL learners. We have been very fortunate to have had her in our adult education community. With the heavy heart, we say goodbye.
Branka Marceta and TIMAC
Then in March of that school year the news came about the headaches and the tumor. Since that faithful time, we have been following her amazing fight, being very hopeful that she would be back with us and TIMAC very soon. Devon has touched many of our lives and we will miss her immensely. She will live on through the wonderful relationships she has formed with many of us and through the fruitful results of her work with her colleagues and ESL learners. We have been very fortunate to have had her in our adult education community. With the heavy heart, we say goodbye.
Branka Marceta and TIMAC
Sunday, September 21, 2008
A Student of Devon's
The joy and love you gave us will never die.Forever missed forever loved.Our angel on earth has gone home. Devon was my teacher at Griffith School. She was the best teacher in the world.I have no words to express my sorrow in this big loss my deepst condolences to Devon's family and friends. Devon will be my inspiration forever.
Billie Lee Langley
This is so difficult to write. To me Devon was a breath of fresh air. She gave me so much hope for what the younger generation was about. I got to know Devon while teaching ESL in Torrance Adult. I knew she was a wonderful caring person the minute we started talking. Devon brought me into the 21st Century by teaching me technology stuff. She was a wonderful, gifted mentor. And she made me feel so good about what I was learning. I loved her laugh and her genius. I will miss her so much and I know I was fortunate to be her colleague for even our short time. My heart and prayers go out to her family and friends. Thank you so much for sharing her with us.
With great sadness,
Billie Lee Langley
With great sadness,
Billie Lee Langley
Daniel
There are no words. It was an honor to share so much with Devon and to be inspired by her. I will always remember her bursting into a room -- full of energy. We'd talk about classes...then music...and then...always...movies: "Did you see..!" "I loved the new...!" "...was so cool...!" "Oh my gosh...I just saw...!" "You have to...!"I don't think she ever got through 5 minutes without a smile or that infectious giggle either. She was a bright light.
My deepest condolences,
Daniel
My deepest condolences,
Daniel
Renee Frigon
Devon and I met on the soccer field as young girls. Years later Ruthie and Devon became great friends and I realized how small this world truly is. As her friendship with Devon grew, Devon and I were able to reconnect through email. All of her emails were always so warm and positive. Also I was able to come from Fresno to attend the Blue Party. We still talk about that night and I even have a picture on my refrigerator of the party. I will miss Devon and pray for her family and friends.
Love
Renee
Love
Renee
Karla Frizler Octavio
Devon & I worked together as ESL Instructors at Torrance Adult School since 2003, and in that time we became good friends. I spoke with or saw her on an almost daily basis for the past few years, and her passing has left a tremendous hole in my heart.In my entire career, I have never worked with anyone as dedicated, creative, productive, dynamic, powerful, sweet and friendly. She was a visionary who was always looking for new and interesting and more-effective ways of doing things. In that way, we were very similar, champions of thinking outside the box ... constantly challenging our students, our colleagues, our bosses ... ourselves. And having fun along the way! But Devon was different than me. I'm a bull in a china shop. She had a way about her that was so damn sweet and completely disarming. You didn't know she was convincing you to do something or agree to something. I never heard ANYONE say no to her. Never. She just had that certain charisma, that intangible something that drew people to her and made them want to be part of whatever plan she was concocting.
Devon & I began our relationship with me as her mentor, but that dynamic quickly shifted. We ended up mentoring each other. I couldn't believe how much I learned from this "young girl" (I'm 13 years older). I taught her about teaching strategies using technology, dealing with people's fears, etc., but she taught me patience and understanding and how important it is to encourage people even if their ideas are wacky or unrealistic. It didn't matter. Passion is passion, and if she saw even a shred of passion or interest from a student or teacher, she ran with it. I loved that about her. It was just simply her nature to look at the positive in everything and everyone.
After Devon stopped driving, we carpooled to and from work a couple days each week. I cherish those memories now. Sometimes we hatched work plans, other times we talked about American Idol, and lately we talked a lot about things like medical marijuana. But we always talked, and we always laughed. Well, almost always.
I'll never forget one Monday morning in May this year. Over the prior weekend, it was announced that Senator Ted Kennedy had been diagnosed with a glioma. All the news reports seemed to focus on the fact that it was a death sentence. Coward that I am, I was dreading the ride to work the next morning with Devon, and secretly hoped it wouldn't come up. But, being who she was, Devon got into the car and immediately asked me, "Do you think everyone thinks I'm going to die, just like Ted Kennedy?" I responded, "No. I think everyone thinks if anyone can beat cancer, YOU can." She smiled at me, and we proceeded to talk about Britney Spears or some other innane topic for the rest of the drive.
Devon was my colleague, my friend, my "little sister," and "Auntie Devon" to my 3-year-old daughter, Mia. Telling her that Devon passed was one of the hardest things I've ever done. In her infinite wisdom, Mia hugged and kissed me and said, "We miss Auntie Devon. It will be OK, Mommy."
Devon--I will never forget you and all the lessons you taught me, and I vow to make sure you are remembered at school and in my home. You were one of a kind and I feel so blessed to have known you for the time that I did. I love you and miss you terribly, and send all my love to your family and friends.
Lucy Cline
Hi Ruthie,
Thanks for continuing Devon's blog. She was an international girl with friends all over the place, so this is a wonderful way to keep those who knew her in touch. I lived (with Irene) in the apartment above Devon, Tonya, and Lana in Isla Vista in 1998. So many great memories from those days - throwing parties and sharing laughs. I remember our Wine and Cheese Party on DP, dressing up for Halloween, and celebrating "Y2K" New Years together. Always the gracious hostess, she invited me and my friend to stay with her while we were backpacking through Granada, Spain in 2002. It was here that I met Noureddin and saw what a special connection they had; I was thrilled to attend their wedding back in California. (What a gorgeous bride she was!) She was so happy with him, and I was so happy that she found such a strong love. She passed away the day after I sent them my wedding invitation (I was crossing my fingers she could come to the Bay Area for the event - just like I've been crossing my fingers since her diagnosis). Noureddin, my heart goes out to you and I'm sending all my love and thoughts to you as you cope during these difficult days. I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Devon's family too; she was an amazing person with a warm heart and a contagious laugh. She had an uncanny ability to make you feel at ease, no matter what. I consider myself one of the lucky ones - lucky to have called her a friend and felt the glow of her radiant, kind soul. Dear Devon, my memories of you bring a smile to my face, though for now they compete with the tears over losing you. You are gone too soon - but remembered always and with love.
Lucy Cline
Thanks for continuing Devon's blog. She was an international girl with friends all over the place, so this is a wonderful way to keep those who knew her in touch. I lived (with Irene) in the apartment above Devon, Tonya, and Lana in Isla Vista in 1998. So many great memories from those days - throwing parties and sharing laughs. I remember our Wine and Cheese Party on DP, dressing up for Halloween, and celebrating "Y2K" New Years together. Always the gracious hostess, she invited me and my friend to stay with her while we were backpacking through Granada, Spain in 2002. It was here that I met Noureddin and saw what a special connection they had; I was thrilled to attend their wedding back in California. (What a gorgeous bride she was!) She was so happy with him, and I was so happy that she found such a strong love. She passed away the day after I sent them my wedding invitation (I was crossing my fingers she could come to the Bay Area for the event - just like I've been crossing my fingers since her diagnosis). Noureddin, my heart goes out to you and I'm sending all my love and thoughts to you as you cope during these difficult days. I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Devon's family too; she was an amazing person with a warm heart and a contagious laugh. She had an uncanny ability to make you feel at ease, no matter what. I consider myself one of the lucky ones - lucky to have called her a friend and felt the glow of her radiant, kind soul. Dear Devon, my memories of you bring a smile to my face, though for now they compete with the tears over losing you. You are gone too soon - but remembered always and with love.
Lucy Cline
Where to send Cards for Noureddin & Family
For those of you who have asked where you can send cards to please mail to the following address:
226 Euclid Ave Apt A
Long Beach, CA 90803
And in lieu of flowers (per Devon's wishes) donations would be appreciated. Tonya is working on a trust or a place where people may donate if they wish to. Stay tuned regarding this...
226 Euclid Ave Apt A
Long Beach, CA 90803
And in lieu of flowers (per Devon's wishes) donations would be appreciated. Tonya is working on a trust or a place where people may donate if they wish to. Stay tuned regarding this...
Funeral Arrangements
The funeral service for Devon Markert will take place at:
Green Hills Memorial Park
27501 South Western Avenue
Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca 90275
www.greenhillsmemorial.com
Monday, September 29 2008 @ 3:00pm
Please join us in celebrating Devon's life!
Green Hills Memorial Park
27501 South Western Avenue
Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca 90275
www.greenhillsmemorial.com
Monday, September 29 2008 @ 3:00pm
Please join us in celebrating Devon's life!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Irene
Devon and I met at Santa Barbara in 1998 - she was my downstairs neighbor on Trigo Road, along with Nichole, Lana and Tonya. She became one of my close friends in the SB years and beyond. We were both planning on being in Europe during the summer of 1999, so we decided to meet up in Italy and travel the majority of it together.Devon was *the* perfect travel buddy and I have said that to this day... she was so mellow, so cool, so fun, so thoughtful, so amazing... I often think of the memories from that trip.She put a quote in her Europe '99 photo album that I stole and have put in my album - I'm not sure who wrote it: "You will bring back pots and pictures. A sheaf of photographs. A jingle of coins. But you will bring back more. A vision of a wide world. Remembered laughter. New friends. New understanding."And that's our girl.One thing I can say about Dev is that she *lived* her short life. I don't mean to be crass, but she grabbed it by the balls and truly lived it. We can only hope to do that in our own lives.I have so many wonderful memories of my fun, crazy, incredible, beautiful Devon. Always a smile on her face, always so positive and supportive. WE are the blessed ones, for having known her and loved her and to have had her a part of our life.And Ruthie, YES, she was the best gift-giver. She gave me the most beautiful journal before I went for Australia - wrapped in a beautiful scarf (she said she learned that from Asako) - and the journal is the only one I still have and own. I wrote in that thing nearly everyday during my time there. I had always intended to have journals - in fact, when I was much younger I wrote in them - but this is the only one I've kept. She knew a thing or two whether she knew it or not. :)From nights past, to tonight, to many nights ahead: Devon, I love you, you have been and always will be a ray of sunshine in my life. I miss you so much it hurts.
-Irene
-Irene
Arash
Devon,
We will continue to miss you long into our years. We met in college, a time so blissful and full of warm memories for me that you are forever etched into that time which I hold so dear in my heart. Irene loved you dearly. Irene loves you dearly. And through your friendship with her, we became friends. I got to know your smile, which I see right now in my mind as I type this note. I became familiar with your grace and the sense that you had a kind soul about you. I wish this wasn't so Devon. I truly do. Be at peace and may you reunite with all your loved ones when the time comes.
Arash
We will continue to miss you long into our years. We met in college, a time so blissful and full of warm memories for me that you are forever etched into that time which I hold so dear in my heart. Irene loved you dearly. Irene loves you dearly. And through your friendship with her, we became friends. I got to know your smile, which I see right now in my mind as I type this note. I became familiar with your grace and the sense that you had a kind soul about you. I wish this wasn't so Devon. I truly do. Be at peace and may you reunite with all your loved ones when the time comes.
Arash
Clara
Ruthie, even though, you don't know me, I want to say thank you very much for posting Devon's blog. She was so very special person to me.How can I express how much Devon means to me. The words just don't seem to be enough. I wish she'd never gone away. She was my inspiration in everything. I'll never forget her. Goodbye is not the right word, as I will see her again one day, until then, I will meet her in my dreams and hold her in my heart. My deepest condolences to Devon's family and friends. My prayers are with you.Please I would like to give her my last goodbye.
Fondly,
Clara
Fondly,
Clara
Marla Pendley
In so many ways, I am the luckiest person I know. She was a friend, a sister, a confidant and a teacher; I am so lucky to have been blessed to know her and learn from her. I met Devon while at UCSB, thanks to our mutual friend Camilla. I worked with Camilla, who was in charge of a Conversation Partners program that matched UCSB students - Devon - with the international students for a little coffee talk. Devon always made friends from all over the world. Camilla and Devon became good friends, and Camilla brought me along to one of Devon's parties on DP. Oh, the good old days. But Devon and I were always two ships passing in the night. I was studying abroad while she was in Santa Barbara, I came back and she went to Spain. But when I returned from Europe the second time, it was time for Camilla to move back to Denmark. We met up for a goodbye party for Camilla, and from that point on our rivers finally came together.
Not only did she know what everyone needed, she knew exactly how to either gently put them in their place or soothe their souls. Admittedly, I have not always been the best person in the world. I had made several bad decisions (an internal meltdown), and she kindly let me know what an idiot I was. I had a short bout with the early stages of cancer, and looking back on my experience I cannot help but feel ridiculous. I was such a baby compared to how strong she has been. But she was there for me, encouraged me, helped me see the bigger picture. She always had such a positive perspective; her glass was always at least a little more than half-full, no matter what. Her perspective had always been that life was too short and too precious to take for granted and waste being depressed.
She amazes me. I have always been simultaneously in awe, inspired, proud and envious of Devon and her ambition. Her work at her school, the programs that she created, the work that she did in Sacramento, the relationships she developed with her students: she will always be my mentor. She inspired me to continue through the credential program and be a teacher myself. She encouraged me to go through with a summer Master's program back at UCSB. I owe so much of who I am today to her.
One day, sipping Noureddin's amazing mint tea, we talked deeply about our childhoods and what we wanted out of our lives. One thing that came up: we wanted our parents to be happy. She spoke of her mom's love of budget travel and laid back nesting attitude, and I spoke of my dad's similar frugality. It clicked: they would be a perfect match. In essence, I got to pick Devon to be the sister I always wanted. After a few canceled coffee dates, our parents finally connected. Diana even trusted my dad to fly her out on a date in a four-seat Cessna, with an oil leak across the windshield. And she came back for more! They married in November 2006. Devon always knew what everyone needed - her mom needed a rock of a husband, my dad needed a solid woman who wasn't a floozy, and we both needed them to be happy.
Devon, always beautifully put together, thoughtful and gregarious, knew how to throw a party, in spite of her disinterest in housekeeping. She was an amazing hostess. She admitted that she didn't like cooking, but could throw hors d'oeuvres together and present them on a beautiful platter without ever thinking twice. After our parents married (both of whom have no interest in traditional Thanksgivings and Christmases), we tried our best to put on good ones, down to golden chargers under the dinner plates. And she always looked stunning, with her beautiful legs and model hands. I asked her a while back how she always kept them so perfect. Her answer "I don't do anything; Noureddin does the housework." I chuckled last night holding her hand for the last time - they were still perfect without a professional manicure.
Devon always made everything so beautiful. She was instrumental in designing our parents' wedding: countless orders on Nordstrom.com to find the perfect gown for her mother and dresses for us, the flowers, hair and makeup. Two and a half months later (after waiting what seemed and eternity for my then-fiance to get his US visa and move from Michigan to California), I told Devon that we had three weeks to plan another wedding - my own. There we were again, on Nordstrom.com. I was so blessed to have her by my side, and she was so gracious and beautiful in spite of her incessant headaches. This was February 2007, one month before her diagnosis. And she insisted on being there and helping me plan for my August church wedding. She threw the bridal shower, beautiful invitations and all, but couldn't even be there. She stood by my side at the alter again, my chosen sister.
I was with her much of the time in the hospitals, amazed at her progress and ability to reorganize entire hospital wards. She would not have been happy last night with Kaiser! Diana and I chuckled that she would have bossed them around in her pleasant manner until they got it straight.
Yesterday at the hospital, she looked so angelic. She has taught us all so many lessons, and I will never forget her ambition, caring nature, grace, intelligence, poise and beauty. Every moment she inspires me to be a better friend, a better person; I hope that I can live up to her example.
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