It is with great sadness that we are writing to inform you of the passing of Carolyn’s father, her friend and mentor, Stephen Kirkby, CPA on December 30, 2010.
The news has saddened all of us at Carolyn’s Coffee Connection. Our deepest condolences are extended to his wife Karen, his children, Jennifer Kirkby, Mary Beth Moran, David Kirkby, and Carolyn Kirkby, his five grandchildren and all family members.
It was with the support and guidance of her father that Carolyn was able to not only open Coffee Connection at its original location of Sixth Ave, but to grow it into what she has today on 52nd Street. There were many times that Carolyn wanted to throw in the towel over the last 5 years, but her Dad would continue to encourage her and believe in her when she doubted herself.
From Carolyn:
Without my father, the cafe wouldn’t exist. I will be forever grateful that he saw abilities in me I didn’t think I had. My world is not as full as it was a week ago but through the strength and wisdom of my Dad, the love and support of friends, my family and I will get through this. MY father taught us to be strong and believe in ourselves no matter what obstacles landed in our path. Losing my Dad is by far the largest obstacle I have yet to encounter but I trust he will be by my side as I continue on my journey. I am overwhelmed by the outpouring of love & support my family & I have received and there are no words to convey what it has meant to us.
We will be forever grateful.
Visitation for Steve will be held on Monday, January 3, 2011 from 3 PM until 9 PM at:
Countryside Funeral Home
950 So Bartlett Road
Bartlett, IL
630-289-7575
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 at 10:30 AM
St. John Neumann Catholic Church
2900 East Main Street
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Call the Funeral Home for further information
In lieu of flowers donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at www.jdrf.org would be appreciated.
