Kathy Villarreal

Hello LT,

My names is John Hipolito class of 88'

I recently posted on the LT Facebook site, letting everyone know about the recent passing of my sister, Kathy Villarreal.

I come you all of the LT family young and old to humbly ask for any help that can be shared.

Kathy and I grew up in Lake Travis, riding our bikes, playing football, volleyball, walking the hallways of the OG Lake Travis and the high school, where we saw our 1st helicopter land for a homecoming game ( we beat the snot outta Hyde Park 41-14)

We had great memories. We also had sad ones that no one knew about. I would work sooooo many hours at Hurst Harbor marina or wash dishes at Vincent's on the Lake restaurant, cutting grass in Lakeway or volunteering to play any sport, just to not be at home.

Kathy suffered unspeakable things, which resulted into depression all of her life.

She attempted suicide many, many times. My family would struggle to help her to find peace and we all tried to heal.

I joined the military, looking for something.. I became an Airborne Ranger. I traveled the world, but Kathy stayed in Texas.

She became a mom, still struggling with her demons. I would remain in contact with her, but gradually our own daily lives consume us.

Kathy however, always found time to find people on their last thread and some how give them hope. No shit, Kathy would pull homeless friends out from under a bridge or send her last few dollars to buy old LT friends food.

Despite her struggles, Kathy volunteered as a suicide hotline operator as well.

I've lost fellow warriors on the battlefield of Afghanistan, Iraq, two of which in my arms. The difference is, I signed up to fight knowing what could possibly happen.

She never signed up to fight and suffered worst. My baby sister was the strongest person I knew.

Please find it in your heart, not to scroll past this, but to rather stop and hug your loved ones.

I'm trying to help raise donations for Kathy's children, Robin, Christopher and Zion...They're not destitute or homeless, but I'm praying that there's still some love in the world for them.

Thank you for your time Lake Travis..

John Hipolito