We lost a kind, sweet and compassionate soul with the passing of my friend Kevin Schaer this past weekend.

Kevin was the kind of person who always had a smile on his face. He was perpetually positive and recklessly generous. Maybe it had to do with the particular combination of his growing up in a small, rural Oregon town paired with his love for Japanese culture and its appreciation for politeness, kindness and tradition. Wherever it came from, with Kevin you always felt seen, loved and appreciated.

We miss you, Kevin. Your husband Naoki, who was your partner in life for 27 years, deeply mourns your passing. As does your dear friend and roommate from your U of O college days, Michael, through whom I met you. So many of us miss you. We shall never forget your broad smile, your boisterous and sometimes devilish laugh, and that contagious positivity that you spread wherever you went. Godspeed, dear friend! 🕊✌🏻♥️