Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the senseless act of violence that tragically claimed the lives of husband and wife, Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel. Kathy and Ralph were seasoned sailors who lived on their beloved catamaran, Simplicity. Their lives ended in unimaginable tragedy on Sunday, February 19th, off the shores of Grand Anse Beach, Grenada.

 

Kathy and Ralph, experienced adventurers, spent their retirement sailing aboard Simplicity, spending summers in New England and embracing the warmth of Caribbean winters. Their final voyage with the Salty Dawg Sailing Association crew took an unthinkable turn as Simplicity was found abandoned in St. Vincent, bearing chilling evidence of a violent struggle.

 

This heartbreaking tragedy has left not only the sailing community, but also their families, shattered. Kathy, who had recently become a first-time grandmother, found immense joy in the presence of her grandson—joy that has now been abruptly taken away. As their families navigate the overwhelming grief and attempt to make sense of this unthinkable loss, we extend our collective support and sympathy.

 

In honor of Kathy and Ralph, we established a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of Kathy's son, Nick Buro and Ralph's son, Bryan Hendry. The funds raised will go towards recovering the vessel and belongings, covering funeral costs, and providing support to the grieving families as they try to comprehend the depth of this tragedy.

 

We hope this allows family, friends and others to come together to honor the memories of Kathy and Ralph and provide solace to their families during this unimaginably challenging time.

Additional info on the developing story: https://people.com/grenadian-prisoners-escape-sunday-american-sailing-couple-goes-missing-8599560

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/25/world/americas/couple-missing-boat-grenada.html

https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/25/us/grenada-yacht-couple-missing/index.html

....

About me: I am a longtime friend and colleague of Nick Buro, Kathy's son. My husband and Nick are childhood friends from DC/Northern Virginia and we all found our way to the LA-area together more than a decade ago. All funds raised will go directly to Nick Buro and Bryan Hendry to support them during this difficult time. Funds will be transferred directly to Nick Buro as the beneficiary of this fundraiser.