We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Afton Lisette here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
Tom and Carol, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Even though we knew Afton for a short time, she was our friend. We will never forget the gift your friendship and the joy that owning Happy brought to us. My students loved the books that Afton wrote and continue to read them. She was a gift to us all. Karen and Cheyenne Flory
Karen and Cheyenne Flory
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Though we have not seen you in years we often wonder how our POA friends are doing. Mom was shocked when we heard the news. May our thoughts and prayers help provide comofort at this time of grief. Although we will not be able to attend the services, please know we are thinking about you in this time of grief. The Graham Family Monte, Jo, Nick and Miranda
Miranda Kolley
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. We have always enjoyed our visits with you through the POAs, especially this past summer at the Regional at MSU, since it had been a few years since we had seen you. Afton was a treasure and accomplished a lot in her short time with us. May the Lord Bless, Keep and Comfort you. Duane and Nancy Strunk, Champaign, IL
Duane and Nancy Strunk
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol-Jeff and I share in your sorrow. May God grant you His Grace to go through this very difficult time. Afton was a very special, talented, and caring person. She will be missed by anyone who knew her!! Her last email to me stating her love for her Savior quarantees we will meet again in heaven!! WE are here for you!! Diane
Diane Landry
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
It has been many years but Afton was often in our thoughts and prayers. She has definitely made an impact on may lives and will be greatly missed. May the strength of the Lord be with you and your family during this time.
Brandy Hunter nee' Cowell
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol, Tom and Aunt Marlene, We want you to know how sad we are -- our hearts break for you as you grieve your precious Afton. We hope you will find comfort knowing you are being held up in prayer by so many of your friends and family, and that Afton is in Jesus' tender care. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." We pray that you will be given an extra measure of strength and peace at this difficult time. Love, Marcy and Ken
Marcy and Ken Hoyt
January 13th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol, I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. Carol, I don't believe that we have ever met, and hope Tom remembers the little girl running around Gpa & Gma Yeider's house, that is now 51. My deepest condolences to you and your family. My mom died of an auto immune disease, that sounds much like your daughter went through. My prayers and thoughts will be with you on this day, and all of the coming days. I wish I could say it will get easier, but I can't. Just take it one day at a time. From what I heard your Afton was a very special young lady, she would want you to continue your lives, she will always be in your hearts. Your Cousin Kim (Roe) Kester (Harolds daughter)
Kim (Roe) Kester
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you face this difficult time. My heart breaks thinking of the beautiful little girl I cared about so much. She has been a part of my heart all through her short life! Ashleigh so cherished her special friendship with Afton and will miss her greatly. But she will always be in our hearts and we will cherish our memories. We love you! Sue
Sue Borah
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol, I'm so sorry and so sad, my heart is aching for you. Love, Rachel
Rachel Brenner
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol and Tom, we all want to express our deepest sympathies. I have no words that I could share that would even come close to all the joy and blessings we have received Afton over the years. We are so lucky to have had her in our lives and we will miss her.
Dave,Shannon, Zach,Kendyll, Tiffany Hoyt
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Tom, you and I worked at Palisades for a long time. I met you, Carol, and your daughter many years ago when I was looking for a dog of my own and visited your home to see your dog (I think it was a black lab). Carol, you showed me your barn and the horses and talked radiantly about your daughter's horse shows. I know how much you both loved her, and I am so sorry for your loss. Just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you.
Debbie Malins
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I am so very sorry for your loss. Reading about her makes me so sorry I never met her. I already knew she was special because of who she came from. My thoughts are with you all. Vandy
Vandy
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Entire Newton family: I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Afton was such a beautiful and talented girl. Suffering from autoimmune diseases myself, I understand how hard it must have been for her to struggle through her days with beauty and dignity. Though I only knew your daughter in passing, her way of living will be a lesson for me in my life as well. God has gained a very special angel in Afton. Wanda Satkey
Wanda Satkey
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom, Carol, and all of your family, Our hearts and prayers all with you all. Afton will always remain in our minds as the Pony Queen. She was an amazing and totally gifted young child, teenager, and woman. We thank God she is strong and healthy with Him. May He keep you strong, as well - hang on to Him!! Love, Ron and JoAnn Klug (She and Mary Ann are probably discussing ponies and horses right now!)
Ron and JoAnn Klug
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Talbot
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Although I never met Afton in person I met her through these message boards her and I posted at and we soon became very close. We would send Christmas cards, messages to each other, and I can honestly say she was one of the gentleness, most kind hearted people I have ever met. I am deeply saddened by her loss and feel like a part of me is missing. It really hurts to know I will never get a chance to talk to her again, about our favorite books, American girl dolls, Disney world, you name it. I will never forget you Afton, ever.
Colleen Cooper
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, You are in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss, my family will miss Afton so much. We had so many good times growing up, I'm just trying to concentrate on that. I hope you are too. Please take care. You are in my prayers.
Sunni Chernega
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I'm still in shock... as are many of the others on the BSC boards. You were so nice to everyone. Kylie made you an honorary member, and you will live in our hearts forever. Thanks for being a blessed friend, even if it was only online. Donica (Bloss)
Donica
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I only knew Afton from the BSC boards, but it didn't take me long to realize how special of a person she was. So caring and gentle with words. Strong and intelligent. Beautiful in every aspect of that word. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I take comfort in knowing she passed peacefully and will never suffer again.
Sara Bresee
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I met Afton online at the BSC boards. Her kindness, strength and graciousness shone through with every post she made. She has touched our lives,and will be truly missed.
Emily
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I rejoice in hearing of Afton's faith and accomplishments in life. Your brother in Christ Bruce
Bruce Robinson
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Afton will be greatly missed, she was truly a wonderful person.
Tiffany D'Anna Santoro
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, We just want you to know how much we have treasured each moment of having Afton as our niece. She shone with joy and happiness on the outside even when she felt pain inside, and she valiently fought her illnesses to the end. Now she has achieved her greatest victory ever. Through the grace of her Savior, Jesus, she has reached eternal life, rest, and freedom from her pain. We will dearly miss her presence and her beautiful smile, but we know she sings gloriously in Heaven now, our own special angel. God gave the world a gift when He sent Afton to you, and He also gave Afton truly loving and caring parents who never left her side. We thank God and you both, too, for sharing your precious daughter with us, our own treasured gift. We love you, Linda and Dan
Linda and Dan
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I met Afton online and enjoyed talking to her and getting to know her the past couple of years. I am saddened to hear of her death. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Ashley Tranum
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol - I am just so sorry you had to endure the passing of your beautiful daughter. It is not nature's way, which makes it so much harder. Speaking from personal experience of loosing my own son prematurely, I can understand a lot of what you are feeling and it is very, very, VERY hard. Stick together, lean on each other, help each other, hold hands,and know you will always have an angel on your shoulders, guiding you from heaven! I truly believe both of them are in a much better place and you will get through the grief and find peace...eventually. With deepest sympathy, Karyn Ridley
Karyn Ridley
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
What a beautiful daughter you had inside as well as outside! Although we had not seen Afton recently, she will always be a fond memory to our family. Remember the horse show days and how fun they were! Our hearts go out to both of you! Love, Harry, Jan, & Family
Harry & Janis Chestnut
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Newton Family - I am so sad to hear about Afton. I have such great memories of running around your house and yard with Afton when we were kids. She was always such a wonderfully fun and unique person. She will be missed. I will keep you in my thoughts. Love, Anna
Anna Brenner
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
My deepest condolences for the loss of your wonderful daughter, and friend, Afton. She will live on in our memories, and through the books we shared with her. She truly was an inspiring and amazing person, a kind and caring friend.
Kylie McGovern
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol-Afton was a great friend. I really enjoyed all of our conversations about the horses. She would share her show stories, and I would share mine. It was always so nice to talk with her. She was one of my favorite people. I will really miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you.-Jimmy
Jim Hollis
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Linda, You always shared with me all of Afton's great accomplishments and how proud you and her parents were of everything she achieved. She had so many wonderful events in her life for such a young woman. She will now share all those gifts with God and the angels who will meet her. Your father will enjoy her company in heaven. I will pray for you and all your family in this time of grief. Love, Sharon
Sharon Barry
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom, Carol and family I was so sorry to read about the loss of your beautiful daughter Afton. I remember Tom speaking of her often when I worked with him. My thoughts and prayer are with you during this difficult time. May God bless you.
Nickie Bierhalter-Heyer
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00am
I only knew Afton online for the last 2 years but her faith came through like a rainbow in the sky. I never knew what she looked like on the outside until today but I can tell you no prettier person exists on the inside where it really counts. Afton, I will miss your emails and your undying friendship. I will see you again when it is my time for the Lord to call me home. I still love you, Linda
Linda Stephens
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol-My heart goes out to you on the loss of Afton. As we know she is with God know and watching over you and her family and friends-no longer in pain. I will always remember her and Aaron playing with the puppies-having such a good time as friends. She was a joy to you and we will miss her always. Love, Ruth Hinz (Packard) and the boys Jacob. Aaron, and Ross
Ruth Hinz (Packard)
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol & Tom, and the rest of your family - I don't know what to say, other than Afton is in no more pain and is with our Savior. I will miss my birthday buddy, she was a very special person, and truly will be missed. Please know you can call me at any time, for anything. You are all in my prayers & heart. God be with you All Love Deb
Debra Bollwahn
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Although I only knew Afton online, I didn't have to meet her in person to consider her a friend. She was such a kindhearted person and I greatly enjoyed getting to know her. My thoughts and prayers are with you in these difficult times.
Marianne Brooks
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
To our dearest Uncle Tom and Aunt Carol, you know how much we love you and care for you and you will always be in our prayers. To those of you who are reading this guestbook, we want you to know a little about the Afton we grew up with and loved. It was so very important to Afton that we would remember the good times that we had with her. We were so lucky to have her in our lives. She spent many fun Saturday afternoons with her cousins Nate and Tyler.When they were little they played Davy Crockett and the River Pirates & Uncle Tom made them a teepee in their woods where they also "hunted bears". They visited Disney World and another time went to an Alan Jackson concert. They rode ponies and learned to cook lunches. We always had a special "Cousins Christmas". Afton was talented, bright, funny, beautiful, humble, generous, brave and a faithful child of God. She always thought of others.We have so many wonderful memories of our time with her. She is always in our hearts. Thank you especailly to Uncle Tom and Aunt Carol for making so many of those memories with Afton possible.
Aunt Shelly
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
We are thinking of you in this time of your loss. Afton was a sweet kind person who we will remember as a true POA kid The Shingleton's
Scott/Charlene Shingleton
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol and Tom, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I met Afton when she was in elementary school. She was briefly in my class when she attended Baseline. I was impressed with her enthusiasm, energy and desire to learn and improve. It was a pleasure to have had her as student.
Chris Wagoner
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
I am so sorry for your loss. Afton was one of the kindest and sweetest people I've ever known, even if I never met her in person. She was so positive and enthusiastic, and all of us on the BSC boards miss her greatly. My thoughts are with you.
Mary Kuna
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol...Our prayers go out to you for your loss of Afton...I can still see Afton and Sarai sitting on horses sharing stories between classes at the many shows they spent together...We will truly miss her smile and talents. Bruce, Joyse & Sarai
The Banisters
January 15th, 2009 at 12:00am
Mr. and Mrs. Newton you were always like second parents and Afton was like a sister, we are all praying for you. I know Afton is probably up in heaven either on a pony or with a microphone in her hand! She is greatly missed!
Jackie Chernega
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom, Carol and family: My heart goes out to all of you. Please accept my hugs, smile and tears. Nothing more can really be said.
Cindy Pratt
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, After reading about Afton, it only reinforces to us what an amazing young lady she was. She was a great example to us all on how to live one's life. Thank you for sharing her life with all of us. Michael
Michael and Joanne Dooner
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol and Tom, I was so sad to hear about the passing of Afton. Our Lord Jesus used her in a mighty way during her pilgrimage on this earth. I pray that the Lord will give you the strength you need in the coming weeks and months. Sincerely,Tim and Sharon
Tim Gallert
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
I'm so very sorry to hear of this great loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very hard time in your lives. Sounds like she was an incredible person.
Beth McRimmon-EPRI
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol and Tom- Our thoughts and prayers are with you. While words cannot express our deepest sympathies, please know we share your sorrow. In Christ- Dennis and Renee Lute
Dennis and Renee Lute
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol, We are shocked, saddened and moved by Afton's passing. You raised a fine daughter and are wonderful parents, always there for her no matter what. That is the most we can do for our children, isn't it. Afton was a good solid competitor in the POA ring and kind and fair to her pony, always a joy to watch. Thinking of you, Randi, Phil & Molly Steans
Randi Steans
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Our thoughts are with you all at this time. We fondly remember Afton's kindness in showing our children her horses and the stable. Tom and Phyllis
The Erikson - Coyne Family
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
I am so sorry to hear about Afton. I will keep you and your sadness in my prayers.
Brenda Allers-Bertorelli
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
I had the pleasure of knowing Afton a bit through CMCS online email support group for the last several years. We've enjoyed hearing about her writing and ponies, sharing her struggles and dreams... She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her parents who stood by her and meant so much to her. Also to her family and friends. Zona
"Zona" Linda King
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Our prayers are with you. We never knew Afton personally, but through talking to you Tom, I knew she was a wonderful person. I can remember you telling me about the trips you were taking when she started showing ponies. And you always had her picture in your cube. Thinking of you, Joe and Candy Waskiewicz
Joe and Candy Waskiewicz
January 16th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol, Tom & Family, Our Prayers are with you all. Please let your Faith guide and comfort you at this time and always. Chris, David & Family.
Chris & David Rumiez
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
I got the pleasure of knowing Afton through the BSC Boards and she was such a sweet, wonderful and caring person. I always enjoyed having discussions about my favorite books wirh her and she sent me a Valentine card last year, which I still keep in my inbox. Thank you Carol and Tom, for being so sweet to our whole board and providing us with links to this guestbook and the obituary. My condolences go out to you and the rest of your family. Afton, I will never forget you; our whole board is coming even closer together now and I know you're smiling down on all of us. Thanks for being such a great person and friend! - Andrea (sweetvalleygirl99)
Andrea Drac
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Tom and Carol, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Afton was truly surrounded by love from two good families, the Newtons and the Stieves. I will be thinking of you in my prayers. Loosing someone we love so much can be hard to understand but with time, family and friends we will find peace. Always a friend, Kate
Kate (Kick) Krenn
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Your faith will lead you through these sorrowful times. Elaine Ruell
Elaine Ruell
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol and Tom, No words or actions can express the sorrow and pain you are eperiencing. God is by your side and guiding you through this valley. He will hold you up and comfort you. Lean on Him and he will help you stand. Please know how much we are thinking and praying for you, Linda, Donna and you Mom and all of the family in this time.
Karen and Don Beyer
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol - Words cannot explain how sad we are about Afton. She knew how to give words of encouragment, think positively, and motivate you to help reach your goals. Alan use to like picking on her at the shows, but Afton knew he was kidding and how to dish it back. Jennifer like to watch her ride Taboo with finesse and grace. At times like this makes us remember just how fragile life really is. May there be comfort in our friendship, hope in prayers, peace in love. Sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship. Gary, Robin, Alan & Jen
The Clarks (Gary, Robn, Alan & Jennifer)
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Our memories of Afton are all very pleasant. We remember her in the family barn working with horses and the proud way her parents would speak of her. We are pleased to know that she is a precious sister in our Lord Jesus Christ. May God continue to bless Tom and Carol Newton.
George and Brenda Schrader and Family
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Tom and Carol, just a note to tell you we are praying for you and your family at the loss of your daughter. I remember when she was born and that you named her after a town in Colorado. Am I right? We certainly sympathasize with you as I lost my brother-in-law and mom a week apart this last year. Please accept our condolences. Greg and Linda
Greg and Linda Beecham
January 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol - I was very saddened to hear of your daughter's passing. I remember seeing the three of you walking together on Blue Star and thinking what a beautiful sight it was to see such a close family. I never met your daughter but she sounds like she was indeed an angel on loan from heaven. What an amazing young woman! You have my deepest sympathy and prayers for your loss.
Marsha Fields (Turner)
January 18th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, We are so sorry for your loss. Afton blessed so many people with her sweetness and her smile. She was always polite and treated everyone with respect. We are grateful to have known her and we share your sorrow. Keep her memory in your hearts as we will. She was a role model for young and old alike. Hold on to each other and know that she is happy and in a better place. We are praying for you and are here if you need us. Love, Colleen and Bob VanWagner
Colleen and Bob
January 18th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol & Tom, We share in your sorrow at this very difficult time - but also share in your joy at knowing Afton is spending eternity in a wonderful place with our creator. Love, Rick & Dawn
Rick & Dawn Olsen
January 18th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol, Words cannot express the sadness we feel. Losing Afton is like losing one of our own. Over the years we became as close to you as family. We shared wonderful times and memories on our travels with those spotted ponies from Michigan to Florida to Oklahoma and New York. May you feel the warmth of our love and know that Afton is in a better place. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Bette and Ted
Ted and Bette Vartorella
January 18th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Carol and Tom, I was so sad when I learned of Afton's passing. My heart is heavy. I have been praying for you. May you feel God's arms of love around you. Afton was such a wonderful girl and did so many things. You were great parents and did so much with her. I cannot imagine the grief you are going through. Please know that I am thinking of you and will continue to pray for you.
Carolyn Nelson
January 18th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear parents of Afton, We were shocked and grieve over the loss of Afton. She was such an avid reader--everything from the juvenile collection through the adult collection--and on all subjects. We will miss seeing her very much. I hope time will ease your pain.
Staff, Oshtemo Branch, Kalamazoo Public Library
January 19th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Tom and family - We are so sorry to read about the loss of your daughter. Our thoughts and prayer are with you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless you.
Joyce & Mike Wagner
January 19th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Our hearts and prayers go out to both of you as well as Afton. She was an amazing young lady and we well all keep Afton alive in our hearts. Alycia was very upset when she learned of the news. She so wishes that she could be there Saturday to pay her respects to Afton. She touched the lives of many people in very positive ways. A very special young lady she was. God Bless you and your family, Bruce Terre Alycia and Derek
The Peters Family
January 20th, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Our hearts are breaking for you both!! We will forever be thankful for our time spent with Afton. Her knowledge and love of horses was always so appreciated. We will always cherish our memories. As you begin your journey of grief please know we will keep you in our prayers. Mark and Tammi
Mark and Tammi Dibble
January 20th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol & Tom, I will always remember Afton's never-ending smile. Whether it was winning a trophy in a showmanship class or just being herself, hanging around the fairgrounds and horse shows with friends. I pray that our Lord (JESUS) is with you,and that He would wrap his loving arms of peace, with which he has welcomed Afton into Heaven with, around you in this time of loss. God bless you and your family.
Jeremy Jacobsen
January 20th, 2009 at 12:00am
To Tom, Carol, The Newton and Stieve Families.....we are saddened to hear of your loss. My wife and I did not personally know Afton but she sounds like a very special person. Living a Christian life is never easy but it sounds like Afton provided others with a great example to follow. May God Bless you through this tough time and know others are praying for you.
The Dorow Family
January 21st, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, we are so sorry to hear about your daughter, Afton Lisette. She sounds like a remarkable young woman, accomplished, kind and generous. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the rest of her family, and friends, and cannot help but think how blessed you all were to have Afton in your lives. Unfortunately, we are out of town and cannot attend service, but our thoughts are with you... Mike and Sheri
Mike and Sheri King
January 21st, 2009 at 12:00am
Mr.and Mrs. Newton i send you my thoughts and prayers, Afton will be sadly missed! It was so nice to get back in touch with her since graduating from P.O.A. She was such a joy to be around and i have so many fond memories of her.
courtney craver barnhill
January 21st, 2009 at 12:00am
Mr. & Mrs. Newton, We just want you to know that we will continue to keep praying for you and your family in your time of sorrow. Afton is going to be missed by so many people. I will continue to remember all the good times that we had showing our wonderful ponies when we were younger. We truly hope that you can find some comfort in knowing that she is now in heaven with Jesus where she will suffer no more. God Bless you and your family.
The Dillard Family (David, Jennifer, & Emily)
January 21st, 2009 at 12:00am
Our thoughts and prayers are with you--we know the piercing pain of losing a child, and the peace and healing that only GOD can provide. She sounds like she was a joy! Love to you both, Sharon and Larry
Sharon [Jerue] Borgman
January 21st, 2009 at 12:00am
I am so sorry and feel so bad to hear about Afton. We had so much fun playing when we were kids. I remember playing on the trails around your house and sing karaoke with her in your family room when we were little. She will be missed, and my prays are with you.
Luke Brenner
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, We are so sorry for your loss. Afton was such a special young lady. We have so many wonderful memories of her that we will hold in our hearts forever. You are in our prayers each day. You have a large circle of friends and family in the POA World. Oh how much fun we all had, Shane and Colin so loved to hang out with Afton and the other "big kids". She helped Shane with his homework when we were in Florida. Love to you both, The Hamptons-Susie Robert Shane and Colin.
Susie Hampton
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol and Tom, I am so very sorry to hear of you lose. It is not easy thing. You will be in my prayers. Afton was such a special person. She always had a smile and was very helpful. Kyle looked up to her at the POA shows. I will never forget all the help Afton gave me with Rosie. I will miss Afton and never forget her. All the POA memories and reading her books was such a Treasure. My heart goes out to you and your family. Louise
Louise Roennpagel
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom, for you and your wife, we offer our prayers on your tremendous lose. We will keep you and your wife in our daliy prayers. Tom & Sherry Leva
Tom & Sherry Leva
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, I've been trying to think for over a week of some way to express my love for Afton to you. There just are'nt any words that say how I feel about losing my little buddy. I know how much you loved her and I know how much she loved you. Her heart goes on in all of us that she touched. I'll call you soon to talk about all the funny and fun times we had together.
Barbara Chernega
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Afton, I am very sorry I did not get to e-mail you this before you went on your journey to the lord. I would like to answer you now and hope you hear this. I remember you being a sweet little girl who loved her pony. You were like the little sister Cindy and I never had. We always looked forward to traveling and seeing you and your family at the shows. I knew when I traveled by myself that I would never be lonely as long as you were coming to the show . As soon as I pulled in to the show grounds you were always right there giving me a helping hand with whatever I needed. Cindy and I always enjoyed watching you show your pony Taboo. You took showing very seriously and always did your best in the show ring. All of your hard work paid off in the high honors and accomplishments you earned during your POA career. Your winnings are too numerous to mention, but accomplishments mean nothing if you have no one to share them with and I thank you for sharing them with me as your friend for so many years. Even as we fell out of touch over the years you and your family have always been in my heart. I will forever be grateful for the Lord blessing my life with you. Nikki
Nikki Rineholt
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Afton will always be remembered in our hearts. She was a beautiful, talented and kind person who will be sorely missed by all who knew her. May God's grace give you peace and comfort. Mike & Sherry Holingbaugh
Sherry Holingbaugh
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol. Afton was one of those people that once you met her she held a special place in your heart. She was kind, gracious and loving and will be greatly missed. I pray for peace and comfort for you during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Heather, Jay and Kati.
Heather Wysong (Holingbaugh)
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, Our deepest sympathies are with you. We understand your sorrow as we nearly lost our daughter this year due to breast cancer and chemotherapy. We will keep you in our prayers during this difficult time. Charlie and Daverly Kozup
Charlie and Daverly Kozup
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
I remember showing POAs with Afton and looking to her as not only a great friend but also an amazing role model. She was a serious competitor but always kind and generous. Though we have not done well to keep in touch over the years, my family has been blessed to know her and will deeply miss her sweet spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with your family; Afton was a treasure to us all. (Sherry Holingbaugh's granddaughter)
Kati Coates
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom & Carol, Our deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time. We know Afton is now in Heaven with Jesus Christ. Afton accomplished much here and was loved. We have the promise that you will again be with her. Love, The Chuck Miller family
Chuck Miller
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Tom and Carol, My heart breaks for you both and for all of us. Thank you for sharing Afton with me . I can't begin to tell you how much I loved her and she was my precious Muffin. I know she is in no more pain now and we are all going to see her in Heaven some day. She is forever and always my Muffin. Love and hugs,her Ant Donna
Donna Holzhueter
January 23rd, 2009 at 12:00am
Aunt Carol and Uncle Tom, I just wanted to let you know how much I loved Afton. I have so many amazing memories of the great times we had together since the day I was born. I remember Afton always telling me how proud she was that she got to hold me before anyone else besides Momma and Daddy. I can remember all the great times like going to Chuck E. Cheese's, trick-or-treating at Deer Forest, and spending time together at Harborfest. Afton touched so many people's lives and words can't say how proud I am to be her cousin! I always looked up to her for inspiration and will forever. I love you guys!
Kallie Wallie
January 24th, 2009 at 12:00am
Dear Tom and Carol, Iam sorry for your loss. I know how it feels. The one great thing we can rely on, is knowing Jesus which Afton did. So we will see her again in a more beautiful place. God Bless and Be With You
Barb Jacobsen
January 30th, 2009 at 12:00am
I never met Afton in person, she was an online friend. I always enjoyed when she showed up in discussions. My prayers are with Afton and her family and friends, may they be strong through this difficult time. Afton will be remembered fondly.
Naomi Mills (Sugarmonkey)
February 2nd, 2009 at 12:00am
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart felt prayers are with you and your family.
Kristi Sheltrown Nering
February 17th, 2009 at 12:00am
Carol and Tom, I am so sorry about your loss. I just found out. Afton was a wonderful girl. I remember her so well from the all of the shows. She was always so sweet and compassionate and her compassion followed her through her life. Wow! She had so many accomplishments in her life. In HIM, Vandy Whitely Schimmels
Vandy Whitely Schimmels
April 12th, 2010 at 12:00am