Abby Grace Kankelfritz

Abby Grace Kankelfritz, who came into the world on March 13, 2003, in Holland, Michigan, passed into the embrace of Jesus on June 23, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona. As the cherished daughter of Mike and Becky Kankelfritz and a loving sister to Sam, Abby will always be remembered as the heart of her family—a constant, joyful, and patient presence. While some might initially see Abby's disabilities, they never defined her. Her radiant smile lit up whenever she met a friend, and her love of being surrounded by people was clear in her delight when others were near. Abby's gentle spirit offered unconditional acceptance, rewarding those who spent time with her with heartfelt smiles and laughter. Through her father's radio career, Abby's story reached listeners around the country, and her reach was far and wide - even though she never spoke a word. Her family is taking great comfort in seeing the amazing impact Abby’s life had on those who knew her story or were a part of it. Her schoolmates were always thrilled to see her, and she made friends easily wherever she went. She was deeply loved by many, from teachers to bus drivers. A cherished memory is of her first bus driver in Houston, Jim Denmark, who adored hearing her laugh so much that he would intentionally drive down bumpy roads just to hear her infectious giggles. Abby taught all of us how to slow down and be present. If you slowed down to spend time with her at her pace, she had much to share with you, even without words. There was intelligence in her eyes and acceptance in her presence. She was an easy person to be around. She taught us not to sweat the small stuff and to take joy in the simple things that came our way. Abby was a three-time Special Olympics gold medalist in cheerleading, and her love for people shone brightly when she performed with her teammates. She beamed with delight when near the Christmas tree, playing with ornaments and admiring the lights. She cherished being outdoors and enjoyed going places, but she loved coming home the most. Abby’s joy was unmistakable when her dad returned from work; she wiggled with excitement at the sound of his voice. Her deep connection with her mom, Becky, who intuitively understood her needs, preferences, and emotions, was a source of comfort and happiness. Abby loved “Mama’s Salon” and being pampered with hair styling and manicures. Abby treasured time with her entire family. She enjoyed watching NASCAR races with her Papa, listening to her Nana read books, and spending time with her Grandma and cousin Emma. Her bond with her younger brother, Sam, fostered a special empathy in him, as he was always attentive to her needs when she was in his care. Sam himself had a rough beginning, spending a long time in the NICU right after his birth. Amazingly, Abby went home to be with Jesus on the anniversary of the day that Mike and Becky brought Sam home from the hospital 15 years ago. As her family, we are grateful for the beautiful community we’ve had the honor of being a part of over the years. Through Abby, we were introduced to so many wonderful people—caregivers, volunteers, helpers, teachers, and medical staff. You are a village of amazing souls who give of yourselves in sacrificial ways, and we have been forever changed by your witness to us. Abby is survived by her loving parents, Mike and Becky Kankelfritz, and her brother Sam. She is also survived by grandparents Joe and Sandy Chandler and Shirley Kankelfritz; aunts and uncles Andrea and Malcolm Hightower and Christy and Daniel Waterbury; and cousins Emma Waterbury, Juan Barco, Eliazar Barco, and Amy Walling. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Gordon Kankelfritz. Throughout her life, Abby faced numerous medical challenges and procedures, enduring many hardships. Despite all of this, she exhibited remarkable resilience. Her journey taught our family the true meaning of bravery. From Abby, we learned how to be courageous. As we said our final goodbyes to our beloved girl, we courageously wished to take on her pain ourselves. The pain of losing her is a burden we willingly bear, knowing it means she is now free from suffering. This is our testimony from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (The Message): We do not carry on as people with no hope, as if the grave were the last word. We know with certainty that Jesus died and broke loose from the grave and that God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus. We know we will be with Abby again. And that all of us, together, will be whole and healed and fully alive with Jesus. And we hold to this hope, steadfast in its truth, grateful for Abby’s life, grieving her death but rejoicing in the coming resurrection. Amen. A Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024 at the Mowery Funeral Service Chapel in Owasso with Craig Westhoff officiating. Arrangements and services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service in Owasso. The family will also be having a service on July 20th at Grace Community Church in Tucson, Arizona.

Abby Grace Kankelfritz

March 13, 2003 - June 23, 2024