I just found this sight and saw the obituary.  Kareda was a wonderful person and, even though I haven't seen her in decades I will miss knowing that she's not around.  I remember when she cut her hair into an Afro and all of us were in shock.  We couldn't really understand because to us color meant nothing.  She was Kareda, our friend.  And she will always be in my heart and memories.

I had always meant to find Kareda who was my roomate very briefly at the University of Ibadan Nigeria in 1971 as I started Medical School. I now live in the UK, finally took the plunge  today only to learn of her passing away.She was beautiful, caring and kind but tough and even then mature beyond her years. She featured in my life for just a few months but left an indelible mark. My condolences to her husband and the rest of her family. May they find solace in the knowledge that they knew and loved a wonderful woman. I much regret that I was unable to tell her what a deep and lasting impression she left on me but I am sure she knows and understands. May her soul rest in peace.

I am still stunned that Kareda is gone.  Gone, but definitely not forgotten.  She was maid of honor at my wedding in 1973, but we didn't have much contact after that.  I will always remember her good humor, her relentless focus, and graciousness.  Hers was a life that truly mattered. 

I knew Kareda as a good friend and classmate while at Radford. I remained friends with her throughout her life. I was very sorry to hear of her passing. I received a detailed letter from Manfred, her husband,shortly after her death where he described in great detail the final days for Kareda. She remained strong throughout her illness and continued to be involved with her community politically. She still maintained that witty sense of humor and positive outlook on life.I really miss Kareda, but I know now that she rests in peace without limitations placed on her here on Earth. She loved Radford and the friendships she maintained while a student.

I remember her vividly as always smiling, very funny and immensely intelligent.  She was proud of her individuality and knew her identity while the rest of us were still trying to find ours.  I admired her a lot.  Best wishes to her family. 

ELEGY FOR KAREDA     6/09From Kathryn TakaraSeasons and transplantsHow many years ago?We met one spring semesterI already knew part of your familyShared night classes in Political ScienceUnderstood cultural obstacles Learned political philosophyObserved racial sterotypesCommitted ourselves to causes and issues in the communityWaianae and Sister Anna, The Black Cultural Center in downtown Honolulu.You brought new perspectives,To all those who met and knew youNew beginnings, courage and quiet joy.How many years ago?How many seasons ago?We shared summer gatherings in Ka`a`awaFormal and informal dinnersDiversity in books, poetry, conversation, culturesMS coming down hard upon youYou sparked conscience, emotional responsesTo socio economic and political disparitiesNo waiting for AutumnHow many seasons ago?How many months ago?We dined elegantly At your beloved Manfred’s legendary tableFull of special guests, lively conversation, gourmet dishes,Aperitifs, wines, cordialsAll noticed his tender attentions to you,His loyalty, his dedications to your care, a dream caregiver.He took you on cruises and excursionsYou, ever gracious, even as you weakenedYour new silenceYour spritely attentionYour ready smiles and chucklesYour willingness to share.What an unlikely, yet wonderful couple.Were you already waiting to fall?To transition to another realm of reality?How many months ago?How many full moons ago?You met Michele and BarackDined with Nancie and NeilWent to the symphony, the operaWith Peter and TiWitnessed the historical election of Obama!And then,You worsened in Winter,Fell in spring,Left us alone in early summerHow many days agoTo mourn your untimely departure.To mourn your untimely departure.

This is Kareda's Senior photo. We all remember Kareda and loved her because of her quick wit, honesty and humor.