I saw your posting about Melissa, on the web, and I knew that I had to immediately contact you. My name is Kathi Burkhalter and I am Melissa’s aunt. Here let me make it a little confusing. I am married to David Burkhalter, Gary’s brother, who is Colleen’s cousin. Thank you so much for your kind words. You hit everything directly on the nose. Mel was such a wonderful and giving person. My heart is so broken but I hold close to my heart God’s promise that I will some day see her again. I am so sorry that we did not have a chance to talk at the memorial reception. I was overwhelmed with how many people kept stopping me wanting to extend their sympathies. I was also so touched by how many of her Jr. High and High School classmates came to pay their respects. I always new that Melissa was an amazing person but even I was overwhelmed.

If you would like I would be very willing to get to know you and Luke via e-mail.. It is very hard for the Burkhalter family to keep in touch because everyone lives so far away. David & I have three children, Shannynne (pronounced Shannon), 27, Mark, 24 & Jordan (female) 21. We also have grandaughter Dove almost 2. These kids are all cousins of your little Corbin. By the way congratulations on Corbin. I talked to Coleen at Christmas time and she told me the good news.

OK as you can see I talk a-lot. I hope I haven’t scared you away.

Again thank you for your kind words.

Kathi