Sunday, October 8, 2017
Good-bye, Kristi!
Kristi Lechner passed away early yesterday morning. She was near to being a perfect human being, as far as I can say. Her hair was always in place, her stylish clothes were from the best stores. She was in every which way appropriate for whatever the occasion called for in dress and demeanor.
Above the level of appearance, Kristi had a kind heart. She was on the shy side which many people didn't understand. She had a good word to say about each person in her realm. She was generous and understanding.
Kristi's handwriting was excellent. Whenever she sent me a memo or a card, I always studied her brand of cursive and thought about what a good student Kristi must have been from the time she entered the classroom until she left it at retirement.
This was a woman who truly understood how school politics worked. Think back to her "good word for everyone" policy. It worked so well for her as she spent all those years as an effective leader at OCHS. It was not possible to discern her prejudices, if there were any.
She had an instinct for understanding her students to their very cores. I don't think she forgot a single one of them in 30 years of teaching. I never heard her say, "Oh, I just can't remember her name." She knew every time. She also graciously passed on hints about the best and worst things about students we'd receive from her classes so we could best serve them.
She loved to go out to lunch on in-service days. Her classroom was always tidy and tastefully decorated. She kept meticulous to do lists. She was on time for everything. She took everyone at his or her word. She participated in student activities with dedication and energy.
Whenever we were out and about, she always left first because she wanted to get home to Lance so he wouldn't miss her. They were devoted to each other.
All of us will miss her forever.
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You have described our friend, Kristi, in the best possible way. I first met Kristi when I was a senior at OCHS so possibly I have been the colleague who has known her the longest. I cherish the memories of working with her as department chairs and also during track season. I especially value the times we spent with our small lunch group and with the Lake Oswego Women's Coalition after we both retired. I will remember and miss her forever, as you have said, Terry. Karmin
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful woman, Ter. You have captured her very essence. She will forever be...the woman who never aged, the dedicated teacher I aspired to be, and the English department chair who decided to give a young, country-raised girl, a chance at a career in "the big city". She will forever be missed. -Sheila
ReplyDeleteAn outstanding tribute to a devoted teacher, daughter, wife, and colleague. It was a privilege to know and work with her.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tribute. I never knew Kristi in her 'professiona' life. She married my brother, Lance, in 1968 and we were sisters right up to the last. We are going to be feeling this loss forever. She was taken much too soon. Thank God for our wonderful memories. Randall Lechner Platt
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