In Loving Memory of Kai (Kay) Michael Crandall

My name is Jenn McBride and I am speaking on behalf of Kai's family. To honor Kai's dedication to all living creatures and continue her light shining on this earth, this memorial fund is set up for donations to support the local animal shelter and plant a tree in Kai's memory. All donations will go directly to her family.

October 23, 1965 ~ September 27, 2023

Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to a truly unique and remarkable soul, Kai, who left us on September 27, 2023. She passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, and an enduring appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

Born on October 23rd, to Eloudis Crandall (Bowens) and John S. Crandall, Kai was a woman of many passions and quirks that made her unforgettable. She had a contagious passion for the power of the arts—including literature, paintings, cinema, and music. Her love for reading began when she was a child, spending hours in libraries getting lost in the stories of Maurice Sendak, the Bronte Sisters, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker and of course the suspenseful tales of Stephen King which are true testament to her appreciation for a good thrill. A voracious reader, she devoured books with an insatiable hunger for knowledge and adventure. Her library was a testament to her curious mind, and her reading recommendations were cherished by those lucky enough to receive them. This love of reading and learning continued through her college education at Weber State University where she studied Literature and Psychology.

Kai was a tender soul that cared for others and devoted her professional practice to providing both youth and adults with disabilities lives rich with purpose and joy. Her commitment to justice and integrity can be found in the many lives supported through her counseling. This caring heart of hers was also seen in the deep affection she had for her cats, and they, in turn, found solace and comfort in her gentle presence.

Sunflowers held a special place in her heart. Known for their vibrant colors and powerful ability to provide energy and nourishment--these were also two traits that Kai provided the world. Like mirrors of each other, their beauty, their loyalty, their adoration will always radiate.

The soundtrack of her life can be heard in the melodies of The Beatles, Dave Matthews Band, Prince, Ed Sheeran, Elton John, and their timeless songs will forever remind us of the joy she brought to our lives.

Kai was a paradoxical spirit, shy and introverted yet incredibly thoughtful and deeply empathetic. Her bohemian spirit transcended labels, and she embraced a free-spirited, unconventional way of life that was uniquely her own.

Whether attending a concert or movie, camping under the stars, traveling to new places to try and taste new things, she delighted in writing her own story, while being surrounded by her family and friends. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the beautiful tapestry of her life. Kai brought light and love into our lives, and her memory will forever bloom, much like the sunflowers she adored.

She is survived by her dear mother Eloudis Crandall (Bowens), and sisters: Kimberly Crandall and Cory Ervin-Stewart (Brandon), Uncle Maurice Bowens (Debbie) and many other family and friends who she delighted in knowing and loving.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to support a memorial fund that will be used to plant a tree in her memory and to continue spreading her philanthropic heart to the local animal shelter.

On October 7, 2023, a gathering for family and friends will be held from 1-2pm followed by a celebration of Kai's life at Meyers Mortuary (845 Washington Blvd. Ogden, Utah 84401). Please join us as we remember and celebrate a remarkable soul who touched our lives in profound ways and will continue to influence all she knew.

Rest in peace, dear Kai. Your light will forever shine in our hearts, and your memory will be our guiding star through life's journey. You are so deeply loved!