Honoring Valerie: Helping Kurt Create a Bright New Space

Dear friends, family, Encinitas community, and kind-hearted supporters,

We are reaching out to honor the memory of Valerie, a woman whose resilience and joy filled the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Before her condition worsened, she had lived a bright and active life - she loved swimming and surfing at Stonesteps, tending to a vibrant garden in the yard, attending church and bible studies, and sewing gifts for her loved ones. When it did worsen, Kurt dropped everything to move back home to take care of her and provide her comfort.

Valerie spent her final days in the comfort of their cozy home and surrounding community — soaking up the sun in the backyard wearing her SD Padres sun hat, listening to her favorite oldies music, and taking walks around the neighborhood checking in on friends.

One of the most special places in their home was this couch where she spent her days, smiling at us as we came and went. It was where she cheered for her team, where she found peace, and where she reminded us, even in difficult times, to find joy and gratitude in the little things. That same spirit of strength and love stayed with her, even when she could no longer be as active as she once was.

Now, Kurt is looking to honor his mom’s memory by brightening up their home and creating space for new memories, while keeping the warmth Valerie brought into their lives.

As part of this process, Kurt has begun making space by passing along some of Valerie’s cherished belongings. We’re reaching out to you for support during this time, whether through a donation to help Kurt refresh his home, or by donating items to jumpstart this new chapter.

If you’d like to contribute, any donation is greatly appreciated. Kurt is also accepting some household items. This google sheet contains a list of the items your donations are going to and the household items he is accepting. The first big purchase will go towards a very comfy couch fit for hosting.

We can’t thank you enough for all the prayers, love, and support. We are especially thankful for the hugs, dropped off food, help with tasks, and check ins on Kurt during this time. Your kindness means the world to us and speaks volumes to the community that Valerie was part of.

While things are still fresh, we are planning to hold a memorial for Valerie, either a paddle-out or a small gathering in the neighborhood sometime in late March or April. More details will follow.

Thank you again for all your support, love, and generosity. We look forward to inviting you all for the house re-warming. <3

With love and gratitude,

Andie (girlfriend, on behalf of Kurt)

Donation google sheet contains my contact and more donation info