 
Kay Harriet (Miller) Sipiora, 68 KAHULUI, Hawaii -Died April 13, in Kahului, Hawaii, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born June 18, 1945 to Robert G. and Harriet M. Miller in Rockford, IL. From childhood, Kay's life revolved around art through Rockford East HS (class of 1963) and NIU art degree. She taught art in IL and WI. At age 33, Kay suffered a stroke paralyzing her right side. She learned to walk without a cane and taught herself to paint with her opposite hand. She painted oil, acrylic and water color scenes of nature and flowers. Kay's family all loved her and will miss her. Kay and husband, Thomas Sipiora moved from Rockford to a new life in Hawaii. Kay found a church led by Pastor Barb Tengan and a faithful congregation that surrounded her with friendship, love and caring, generously subsidized her living costs and helped her meet her daily and long-term needs. Pastor Barb and her selfless church volunteers truly help others in their church and community and this church strongly supports worldwide missions. Predeceased by husband, Tom; and her parents. Survived by three brothers, Steven (Laura), Glenn (Anita), and Phillip (Karen), 4 nephews and 2 nieces. Funeral at 9 a.m., Friday, April 25, at Wailuku Door of Faith Church, 432 Waiehu Beach Rd., Wailuku, Hawaii, 96793, with Pastor Barb Tengan officiating and brunch follows. Burial at noon to be near her husband, Tom. Donations and memorials deservedly to Kay's church. (808) 244-1286, http://dofchurch.com.
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Britta Severin (Peterson)
Not only was Kay a classmate, she was a relative. Her Dad was my cousin. Besides school activities, we saw each other at family events and church. She was rather quiet, but had a good sense of humor. She was very pretty. If I remember correctly, she was the queen for one of the events our senior year. She was a talented artist and teacher, but her stroke cut that short. The last time we were together was for her 60th birthday. She came back to Rockford for a visit, and had a birthday party at her parents' home in Rolling Green. For several years Kay would send me a calendar of beautiful Hawaiian flowers. She also sent me note cards and book marks that she had created. Life was a challenge for Kay for many years, but she was always smiling. She will be missed.
Britta Severin Peterson
Nestor White
I did not know Kay very well in high school but remember her. The only class reunion I ever attended was the 5th while I was attending the Naval Academy. It seems I was at sea for most of the other reunions but did attend the 50th. Cathy and I had a great time. While at the 5th reunion, I got visiting with Kay and I think we might have even gone out for a soda or sandwich after the reunion to visit some more. What struck me was how nice she was and that there were SO many other classmates about whom I knew absolutely nothing. We had some common interests and, if I recall correctly, our parents might have attended school together.
Maybe some of the guys can relate to trying to come up with a "date" for some special event in Junior High or High School and getting out a year book to look at the girl's pictures. Fiinally, getting up the nerve to call and trying to find out a phone number. As I grew older, I realized that taking someone on a date didn't mean that I had to marry them, but its seemed like such an important decision at the time. My point is that there are/were MANY Kay's in our class, many good kids worth getting to know but we never did. It's sad for her family and many friends that she is now lost to them, so make the most of the time we have remaining. Nestor White, 5/7/14