Mass of Christian Burial for
Karolyn M. Boettcher
Arlington National Cemetery
April 17th, 2003

Karolyn M. Boettcher, age 65, was taken from us on November 22, 2002 after a courageous battle with cancer.

On December 2, 2002, cherished friends and family gathered for a Memorial Service to celebrate Karolyn's shining life.

And now the family of Karolyn Boettcher wishes to announce her Mass of Christian Burial at our nation’s most hallowed grounds, Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., on April 17, 2003.

The ceremony will proceed according to Navy Protocol, with a half hour Chapel Service followed by transport to gravesite and a ten-minute Committal Ceremony there. All those interested in attending are advised to meet at the Ft. Myer Chapel on the west side of Arlington National Cemetery at 10:30 AM. Please click here for more information.

Our thanks to all of you who came to share our burden of grief and celebrate our mother’s life in December. In April, as then, we wish to emphasize the triumph that was her life and our dedication to continuing our lives according to the values she held most dear. Dedicated to life even in death, Karolyn set the example by offering her tissues for scientific research at one of America's top cancer research centers - she hoped that the tragedy of her illness could be prevented for others in the future.

April is a time of rebirth, so the ceremony is timed to coincide with the emergence of the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC. April 17th is Holy Thursday, the Last Supper, when Jesus' tried and true friends gathered to show him their loyalty and break bread for the last time. It's also the day where he gave marching orders for the future: "love one another; even as I have loved you". All are welcome to join us in spirit or presence at Arlington, a place of dignity and permanence for a woman who exuded warmth, class and humor.