The unselfishish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves. –Helen Keller

July 7, 2019–It’s true that beautiful souls are never forgotten. My friend Kathleen Lupke knows that all too well. However, I often think to myself when I am around her that she does a fantastic job honoring the dear friend she lost way too soon by the cheerful smile she shares with others! Kathleen’s witness is just one simple and meaningful way I see Shannon Hall’s legacy of kindness live on.

Kathleen is the faith-filled mom of three terrific children and the wife of Scott Lupke. She’s the loving mom of two sports loving boys named Mike and Andy as well a gorgeous daughter named Amanda who I would describe as kind of a tomboy princess. It turns out that it is, in fact, possible to be both! What I love is that the softhearted Kathleen encourages her three to embrace all their giftedness and curiosity– however diverse those interests might seem!

If memory serves, Kathleen is a Ft. Wayne native and a graduate of St. Mary’s College (Notre Dame). She and I have spent more than a few evenings and weekends together at the same ball diamonds over the years since my “baby” boy has been on baseball teams now with both Mike and Andy Lupke. She’s a no-nonsense, genuine, attentive and agreeable woman who both values and appreciates her family and friends.

Kathleen, today on your birthday I just wanted to say thank you for the entertaining stories, good-natured giggles, and general thoughtfulness you have displayed over the years. The world on some days feels a little over full with gray clouds, and even when we were standing under cover in a rain delay, your playful smile and friendliness often made the day brighter for me and many others too! Your life is CERTAINLY worth celebrating so I hope all your people love you up like crazy today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KATHLEEN LUPKE!