Coralyn Dahl passed away on Friday, April 23, 2010.  A simple sentence that means little to those who did not know her.  However, to those who were friends with, worked with, and knew her, it is a fact that needs to be read over and over to sink into our minds.

I first met Coralyn at a Kiwanis function, what else?  I was struck by her passion, her caring, and humanity.   In time my life became meshed with her life through the magic of Kiwanis.  The more we talked the more we realized how much we cared about the same things.  As the Minnesota-Dakotas governor-elect she worked with me as governor.  We traded hundreds of emails, many calls and often met for lunch in Hutchinson, MN for face-to-face meetings (about halfway between Mankato and St. Cloud).

Over time, Orin (Coralyn’s faithful husband) became a good friend to both Liz and I and soon the four of us could be found going to restaurants together when we were in the same town.  We spent much time together at Kiwanis International Conventions and our own district conventions. 

Coralyn loved to talk about Kiwanis and try to find ways to improve our district.  There was nothing she would not do if asked when it came to helping others, especially through Kiwanis.  That being said, she was NOT a timid woman.  There were a few times she let me have it when my thinking was not correct.  I appreciated that about her.  You always knew where you stood.  She was not the type to say what you wanted to hear and then talk behind your back which can happen all too often in volunteer organizations.  Coralyn was a straight shooter which was both refreshing and helpful for our relationship.

It is hard to believe Coralyn is gone...well not really gone.  She will live on in my heart and mind as long as I live and for many others too.  Coralyn was a great Kiwanian.  She understood the responsibility and rewards of being a Kwianian and she tried to spread that excitement to others.

I am going to miss her physical presence, that I know.  But I also know that I am blessed to have known Coralyn and to have been a close friend for many years.  Coralyn was a special person and those of us who found this out are the lucky ones.  Thank you Coralyn for all you have done for your Kiwanis club, your MN-DAK district and all of Kiwanis.  You will not be forgotten.  You left us way too early but even so were able to share so much with us. 

Coralyn Dahl passed away on Friday, April 23, 2010.  This is a fact that will take time to get our heads around.  It is a sad time yet we need to celebrate a great life.  Coralyn, I will never forget you and the amazing person you were and always will be.  Thanks for being my friend.

With Love,

Stewart

Kiwanis International Trustee 2010-2013