Mrs. Bielski was a driving force in the pursuit and love of music. She will be deeply missed by many pupils.

 Posted by Jason Byma - St. Ignace, MI December 01, 2008

Kristen, We are so proud of you and all your accomplishments, Jim the best husbandEmma,the love you had for your students,your love of family and friends, the way you handled your illness. You will always be in our hearts, and prayers. You will be greatly missed. Love you babe.dad always called you babe. until we meet again Love Mom and Dad

 Posted by sharon miller - st. charles, MI November 30, 2008

I remember being in Corps with Kristen, Those were some wonderful times. My thoughts and prayers are with Kristen and her family. God Keep you in his hands on this wonderful Journey. Till we see each other again. Cindy Moranec Roberts

 Posted by Cindy Moranec Roberts - Saginaw, MI November 30, 2008

It is with great sorrow that we acknowledge Kristen's passing. She was a "one of a kind" teacher who influenced hundreds of young people through music. Not only was Kristen our band director colleague, but also the person who began and taught our daughter french horn at Pinewood and at EK. Kristen was, without doubt, our daughter's primary role model as she attended middle and high school, MSU, and began her own career in music education. 
 Kristen's life, although cut way too short, was nevertheless one well spent. Her legacy lives on and we are all better off because she passed our way.

 Posted by Jon and Janet Nichols - Kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

It is with great sorrow after all these years that I see my old friend has left this earth. Kristen and I were great friends in elementary school. I still have vivid memories of us playing on the playground at Ling Elementary School. I spent lots of fun times at Kristens. Many years have passed since those times but she was never far from my thoughts. Time has a way of getting by us, I am sad that her family and students will be without her. She was a great friend!

 Posted by Teresa Garno Seeber - Saginaw, MI November 30, 2008

Jim, Emma and the extended family, Please accept my condolences. My prayer for you is that you and your family receive strength and peace in the days ahead. If there is anyway that we can be of assistance please do not be afraid to ask. Kathy Hubert St. Sebastian Care Minister 878-1446

 Posted by Kathy Hubert - Byron Center, MI November 30, 2008

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mrs. Bielski's passing. I have fond memories of her as a band teacher and color guard instructor. My prayers go out to your family.

 Posted by Sarah Schuiteman Palmbos - Jenison, MI November 30, 2008

Jim, Terribly sorry to hear of your loss. We remember Kristen very fondly. Our prayers are with you. Dan & Kay Denardo

 Posted by Dan Denardo - Saginaw, MI November 30, 2008

Mrs.Beilski You were the best music teacher ever. I miss you dearly. You were awsome and i'm still playing just for the love and the inspiration you gave me in 6th grade. Thank you Erin

 Posted by erin - kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

Jim, I am very saddened to hear of Kristen's passing. My heart aches for you, Emma, and your family. Please find comfort in the many people who have you and yours in their prayers and who will always hold Kristen in their hearts. Anita McKeith

 Posted by Anita McKeith - Freeland, MI November 30, 2008

Mrs. Bielski was my inspiration to stay in band. She made band my favorite subject and she helped me on so many levels. She made band a wonderful experience for me. To Mr. Bielski and Emma, even though you don't know me, if you ever need anything, I will be there for you. Please call me 581-9415. To Emma, your mom influenced so many people in great ways. If you ever need to talk honey, I will listen. I will continue to play my instrument, but now I will play for Mrs. Bielski. She was an AMAZING woman and an inspiring teacher!!!

 Posted by Amanda Stamman - Kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

Mrs.Bielski was an AWESOME band teacher and she will be very missed. I was very lucky to know her as long as i have. i wish the family well. she will be missed dearly.

 Posted by sammy hinton - kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

Jim,
 I am very saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you, Emma and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Again,I am very sorry for your loss.
 Brian Bukowski

 Posted by Brian Bukowski - Bay City, MI November 30, 2008

Jim, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your wife Kristen. My heart and prayers go out to you and your daughter.My deepest Sympathy.

 Posted by Fran Sosa - Holland, MI November 30, 2008

Jim, We are very sorry to hear of Kristen's passing. You & Emma are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

 Posted by Roger & Kris Manshaem - Byron Center, MI November 30, 2008

I didn't know Kristen, but knew you, Jim, in the old Photographic days at Dow. Knew whoever you married had to be special, which, reading all these wonderful notes to you on this website say she was - and then some. My sincere condolences for the loss of a beautiful woman.

 Posted by Cheryl Dauer - Midland, MI November 30, 2008

Dear Jim and Emma, All three of our children had Kristen as a band teacher in Junior High! We all just loved her and think she was "the best". She loved our kids and was very devoted to helping them be the best they could be! Our hearts go out to you both in prayer for comfort. We will always remember her! Love and Hugs, The Kapteyns

 Posted by Fred & Mary Ellen Kapteyn - Grand Rapids, MI November 30, 2008

Jim and Emma Our prayers to you both. I am a cousin to Roger Miller and only wish we had maintained the relationship with Kristen later in life that we enjoyed when she was four or five. Rogeryoung, Kristen and our kids Phil, and Tim used to play together often while Roger- Sharon myself and my late wife June visited. You have lost a beautiful person, one who cannot be replaced. God bless you and may he help you through the healing process. We still hope to be at the services Tuesday but it will depend on the current storm. We live in the Birch Run area.

 Posted by R. Gene Meyers - Birch Run, MI November 30, 2008

Jim and Emma - I never got to meet you - but I am so sorry for your loss and you are in my thoughts and prayers. Mr. & Mrs. Miller, Ryan, and Roger Jr....I wish I had gotten to know Kristen better during our short time together in High School. What I remember the most is that she always loved her music and always had a bright smile on her face! She brightened the room just by entering it. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
 - Cindy

 Posted by Cindy L. Zastrow - Hemlock, MI November 30, 2008

She was a very kind and wonderful woman. I felt blessed to have her teach my son and daughter at Pinewood. She is already missed. Much Love and God Bless. Leslie Blackwell and Family.

 Posted by Leslie Blackwell - Kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

Although I have only known Kristen for 1 year, she taught me a lot of what it meant to be a great teacher and mentor to my students. I will miss her every day, but am thankful for having the chance to get to know someone like her. Jim and Emma, my deepest sympathy goes out for you. I am so sorry for your loss.

 Posted by Eric Hudson - Kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

I would like to express my condolences to Kristen's family. Her love of music, and the joy she found in passing on that gift to her students, is what I remember most about her. You are all in my prayers.

 Posted by Cheryl Guoan Simon - Bay City, MI November 30, 2008

My heart goes out to you and your family in the loss of your precious loved one. May memories keep her close and bring you comfort in this sad time. May God bless you and keep you in his care.

 Posted by Judy Sepos - Bay City, MI November 30, 2008

I know mrs.bielski since middle school and she was always a sweet teacher. she will be in everyone hearts.she will be missed.god will take care of her.

 Posted by Lisa - kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

I know mrs.bielski since middle school and she was always a sweet teacher. she will be in everyone hearts.she will be missed.god will take care of her. i would like to give my condolences to Mrs.Bielski's family.

 Posted by Lisa - kentwood, MI November 30, 2008

I was in band with Kristen for a few years at Hemlock High School. I always remember her as a quiet, shy girl. I also remember her as a nice person who would talk to anyone and who was always kind. I'm sure your family and friends will miss you greatly. Your parents, Ryan and whole family are in our thoughts and prayers.

 Posted by Michelle Missy Izzo Duncan - Saginaw, MI November 30, 2008

My deepest sympathy to Kristen's family. I had the privilege of driving her to school in the school bus then also driving her around the country with the Saginaires Drum & Bugle Corps. Her smile and laughter had a great effect to all those around her. Heaven will have another wonderful person in its care and the music will be more upbeat with her in the lead. God bless her entire family.

 Posted by Doris Estrada - Merrill, MI November 30, 2008

Dear Jim and Emma - I am so sorry to hear of Kristen's passing. Although I have not had the privilege of meeting you both, I knew Kristen through MSBOA and I know she was a great teacher and inspiration to her students as well as a great person. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. I hope that eventually you will be able to look to your good memories for comfort. May God be with you at this time and always.
 Kate Bredwell Band Director, Lowell Middle School

 Posted by Kate Bredwell - Lowell, MI November 30, 2008

Jim & Emma: We are very sad to learn of your great loss and please know that our prayers are with you. I cried immediately when I learned of her passing. Kristen has been a part of my family's life since 1997 when Alex entered 6th grade and began playing the clarinet. Ryan followed in 1998 with his trumpet, Courtney in 2000 with the flute, Breanna joined percussion in 2003 and Dylan is currently in percussion in the 6th grade. All my children have been blessed with knowing her and they are all sad to hear this news. I can say that she has been a big part of keeping my kids involved with music. Alex and Ryan stayed with band through their sophomore years, Courtney played through her junior year. Breanna plans to finish up with band next year as a senior. She was a great teacher and will be greatly missed. We are truly blessed to have known her. The Vetters

 Posted by Becky/Eric Vetter Family - Caledonia, MI November 30, 2008

Jim and Emma, We share your sorrow. May Jesus welcome Kristen with open arms.

 Posted by Pat and Don Gyurich - Bay City, MI December 01, 2008

To Mrs. Bielski's family, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this time. My daughter was in Mrs. Bielski's class for three years at Pinewood and remains one of her favorite teachers.

 Posted by Patty Hall - Caledonia, MI December 01, 2008

Jim, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.

 Posted by John Randall - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

I knew Kristen from marching drum corps and MSU. My deepest symphathy to her family.

 Posted by Ellen Schueller - Westphalia, MI December 01, 2008

Jim, I am so sorry to learn of Kristen's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Emma. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Kristen, chances are at some point down the road, I will be touched by the music of one of her many students.

 Posted by Kevin Wells - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

Jim, Emma, and family, We were sad to hear of the passing of Kristen and send our sincere condolences to you. The last time we saw you and Kristen was at our Aunt Ethel Miller's 100th birthday party in 2007. I and my siblings are cousins of Roger Miller and our mother was a sister to Ethel. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

 Posted by Sally Monroe - Ithaca, MI December 01, 2008

My families thoughts are with you all at this terrible time. I have many fond memories of Mrs. Bielski from over 10 years ago as my colorguard instructor. She was a wonderful teacher and has touched many lives.

 Posted by Stephanie Tell Brewer - Tuscaloosa, AL December 01, 2008

I was very saddened to hear that Mrs. Bielski passed away. I never had her in school, but she was a wonderful color guard choreographer. She made marching band fun for me, and I always feel blessed that I was chosen to be there for all 4 years of high school. Mr. Bennett, Mr. Klein, Mr. Foote and Mrs. Bielski made the EK Marching Band what it is today. That is a legacy that will never change. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

 Posted by Amanda Metzner - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

Melonie Klauss and Cindy Klauss are so sorry for your loss. I wish we could be there. God bless and keep you as your family tries to pick up the pieces. Cindy Klauss Grubb

 Posted by Cindy Grubb - Indianapolis, IN December 01, 2008

Our two children, Julie and Michael, were privileged to have Mrs. Bielski as their Pinewood band teacher. We were all so sad to hear of her passing, and the dear family she leaves behind. She initiated beautiful music in many homes over the years...we're thankful for her caring heart, and instilling her love for music in her students.

 Posted by Van Laan family - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

I marched with Kristen in drum corps and it is sad to lose someone who was a part of the corps family. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.

 Posted by Jo Kleinschmidt-Booth - Bay City, MI December 01, 2008

To Jim, Emma and Family, I am deeply sadden by the news of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Kristen was a beautiful, kind and caring woman. I had the great fortune to march with her in the MSU Band and Phantom Regiment. We lived in the same house with a large group of music majors my last year, and graduated together. We even taught drum corps together for a summer. She was a wonderful musician, an inspiring teacher, and a good friend. This world will truly miss her wonderful smile, her talents as an educator and her inspiring personality.
 Michael Melnick Director of Bands Croswell-Lexington Middle School

 Posted by Michael Melnick - Lexington, MI December 01, 2008

Jim,
 We're so sorry to hear about your loss. Kristen was such a warm, fun person. Her smile was truly contagious and will be sadly missed. Wishing you and Emma all the best.
 With love, 
 Todd & Julie Stump

 Posted by Todd Stump - Zeeland, MI December 01, 2008

I'm sorry for your loss. It is a loss for the Michigan music teaching community as well as her students.

 Posted by David F. Ellis - Oklahoma City, OK December 01, 2008

My deepest sympathy to Jim and Emma. May the Lord watch over you during this time and in the coming months. 
 Dan E. Doran Band Director Paramount Academy - Kalamazoo

 Posted by Dan E. Doran - Kalamazoo, MI December 01, 2008

Kritsen was an inspiration for me. Her energy, expertise, and love of music were contagious. As well as her family, our profession has suffered a profound loss.

 Posted by Donald Druart - Jenison, MI December 01, 2008

I'm very sorry for your loss. Kristin was a role model for all band directors; especially women. She carried herself in a strong, positive way that inspired us all. She will be missed. I will say prayers in her memory.

 Posted by Heide Kenjorski - Holland, MI December 01, 2008

I am so saddened to hear this tragic news. My prayers are with your family, especially little Emma. Kristen was a fantastic teacher and an influence on my life as a student, artist and person. I will miss her deeply.

 Posted by Brandon Hewitt - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

I knew Kristen briefly, but she had a strong impact on me professionally. I worked as a teacher assistant from Grand Valley with Steve Foote in the winter of '02. During that time we would travel over to Pinewood for one hour a day, during which I was privileged enough to work with Kristen's kids and watch her teach. The enthusiasm she had for her job and the joy she brought to work each day was infectious. I learned many helpful tricks from her during that semester. She was so kind in being willing to share her knowledge with me, even though I wasn't officially her pupil. Thank you Kristen for taking the time to help me become a better educator.

 Posted by Andrew Holtz - Allendale, MI December 01, 2008

To Kristen's Family, Kristen was a beautiful and sweet teacher. She gave her students confidence and the gift of music. And what patience. She was always smiling. And I remember her beautiful little girl! Always there with her Daddy. I want to send her family our deepest heartfelt condolences. We are so sorry! God Bless you all!

 Posted by The Savage Family - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

Kristen was always there to help with anything or anyone. She was a ray of sunshine in everyone's life. she will be greatly missed. Our love and prayers are with you. Mike and Karen

 Posted by M & K Stachowski - Bay City, MI December 01, 2008

I just want to say that my thoughts and prayers are going to the Bielski family, through these tough times. Lots of kids at Pinewood Middle School miss her. She was a great person, with a warm heart.:

 Posted by kidatpinewood - caledonia, MI December 01, 2008

I remember her in the hallway...she was always so nice. She always said hi to me. She was what I heard the best band teacher to ever teach at Pinewood Middle. Everyone misses her alot.

 Posted by Jada Paul - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

I was terribly sad and shocked to hear the news, as I haven't kept up with Kristen in recent months. I had the privilege of student teaching under Kristen, and I couldn't have asked for a more talented, warm, and professional role model. Any successes I have had in teaching have been largely because of my beginnings with her. When making teaching decisions I often think to myself, "What would Kristen do?" I hope you realize how many lives have been blessed because of her. I will be praying that the Lord provide you with the sustenance you need during these difficult times.

 Posted by Adria Van Wyk - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

Jim and Emma - I will remember Kristen as a warm, caring, professional and ethical person who I admired and respected. She was a role model for all teachers, and especially music teachers. I remember having many conversations with her about music, but also about kayaking and trips up north. I'm so sorry for your loss.

 Posted by Judy Meyer - Holland, MI December 01, 2008

She was the best band teacher ever.. i remmeber every little funny thing that happened in that class. and i'll always remember her as the only teacher able to be taped to the wall. =. she was a great musician... and she inspires me to stay in band and continue doing what i love. i'll miss her always and i'll always think about her

 Posted by Ashley Henninger - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

Kristen was an exceptional teacher and a beautiful woman. She was an inspiration to other female directors. Her bands were outstanding if not for any other reason, but for the fact that the students performed with an obvious love for music and for their director. 
 I remember when I first met Kristen, it was at South Christian High School. I was working sight reading at B&O Festival. It was my first year teaching, so I didn't know anything about the programs that I was going to hear that day. Midway through the day, Kristen came into the room with what seemed like 300 students. They just kept coming and coming and coming. I scrambled just to get enough chairs for the kids to sit. Once we were settled I looked at her and said, "so when can you and I sit down and talk about recruitment?" She smiled the most sincere smile and said, "anytime". I then proceeded to observe her take her students through the process and realized that I was watching a master teacher at work. She would have no memory of this event, but it has stuck with me for the last 11 years.
 To Kristen's family, I am so sorry for your loss. She was one in a million.

 Posted by Nichole Bier - Hudsonville, MI December 01, 2008

Kristen was a credit to all who were lucky enough to have been touched by her. Bill Faulds Saginaires 1977/1980

 Posted by Bill Faulds - St Louis, MO December 01, 2008

I have many memories, like so many others, that had the pleasure of knowing Kristen. I knew her as my instructor while a member of the colorguard at East Kentwood High School back in the 90's. I am indeed thankful for her in helping to shape that time for me, and for her smile. My prayers are going out to a God who is listening, loving, and who and is there with you that He would bless and hold you close.

 Posted by Trisha Philipps - Mount Pleasant, MI December 01, 2008

Jim, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. If there is anything you need, please know we are here for you...... Always in our hearts and prayers...

 Posted by Tom and Lori Haynes - Dorr, MI December 01, 2008

Mrs. Bielski was the best band teacher EVER! I will miss her lots!

 Posted by Casey - Caledonia, MI December 01, 2008

To the Bielski Family, We are so sorry for the loss to your family of such a wonderful person that Kristen was. Our first encounter with Kristen started with our oldest child entering band at Pinewood and continued on through the next child whom Kristen instilled a passion for music that continues even into his college years. I have worked at Pinewood for years and have witnessed the professionalism and joy that Kristen brought to her teaching. She will be greatly missed. The Shillito Family

 Posted by The Shillito family - Caledonia, MI December 01, 2008

I was fortunte enough to be able to work with Kristen for a Semester at Pinewood. In the short time I got to know her, I learned valuable lessons about working with young people. She talked about Emma daily as well as her husband, and I know they will miss her. Our condolences go out to the family.

 Posted by Brian & Kathy Balch - Big Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

I know i've already wrote something in this but i need to add something. To her little girl: When you're old enough to read this I want you to know that your mom was truly the best teacher ever. She is very inspiring... and she'll always be in my heart. Everything I could say about her is positive becuase I truly saw nothing negative. She was really wonderful. And when you're going through your girl stuff your dad will be there.. even if its awkward. To Mr. Bielski: The hardest part of life is knowing that one day your loved one wont be with you but when you accept it.. it'll get alot easier.. Even though she isnt here anymore.. she'll be in alot of peoples heart. And even though some people may disagree she truly was a great person and will always be an inspiring person to me. Now I'll never be able to quit band. And i'll never look at Pinewood and my instrument with out thinking of her. My prayers go out to the whole family and every night I go to bed i'll pray for you guys because I'll always have her In Memory card hanging up so I can remember her. I wish I could say more to make everyone happy and make her come back but I know shes happy and in a better place.. and I wouldnt wanna disturb that.

 Posted by Ashley Henninger - Kentwood, MI December 01, 2008

Please accept our sincere sympathy during this time of grief. As a fellow music teacher I share in the loss of one of our own. I'm sure that she has touched many lives, and through them she will continue to live on. God Bless!

 Posted by Frederick Smith - Ann Arbor, MI December 01, 2008

Many of the best teachers that I have had in my life have been music instructors, and Kristen Bielski was no exception. Music is now one of the greatest passions in my life, and while other individuals contributed along the way, she was the one who started this passion, and for that I feel nothing but gratitude. My life has been much richer for having known her.
 My deepest condolences go out to the Bielski family. She was loved by many of her students and will be greatly missed.

 Posted by Kyle Shillito - Caledonia, MI December 01, 2008

I was a member of the instructional staff of the Saginares Drum & Bugle Corps when Kristen marched. I remember her name, her face, her smile and her determination to succeed. May the Peace of our Lord be with you.

 Posted by Larry Hammond - Frankenmuth, MI December 01, 2008

Mrs. Bielski was an amazing person, a true inspiration and model for all those whom were fortunate to know her. She instilled in me a deep love for music, the french horn, and teaching. It was Mrs. Bielski who inspired me to become a band director. Words cannot say what she meant, and will continue to mean to me. My thoughts and prayers go out to all her family. She is smiling down on you all from heaven.

 Posted by Katie Cole - St. Joseph, MI December 01, 2008

For several years, Kristen taught a beginning percussion class in my former orchestra room at Valleywood Middle School. The class met during my prep time, and it would have been easy enough to simply avoid the noise and plan elsewhere, but somehow I just couldn't. I learned so much by watching Kristen in action. As many have said, her passion for teaching and music was inspirational. She had a real drive, whether on the podium or in a staff meeting, and I truly admired her. Above all else, I will remember the proud smile on her face when chatting about Emma, a toddler then, and all that she was up to. Kristen loved and was loved by many.
 My sincere condolences to Jim, Emma, and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

 Posted by Jennifer Kotchenruther - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

I learned from Mich. School Band & Orch. Assn. that Kristen had passed away. Being from Saginaw myself, I attended Stone Ememtary, North Intermediate and graduated from AHHS in 1942. I taught JHS band and orchestra for 8 years in Ann Arbor a UM grad, and am now Prof Emeritus of Music at UM and President Emeritus of Interlochen Center for the Arts. Although I did not know Kristen, and having been born and raised in Saginaw, I was sorry to learn of Kristen's passing. My prayers are for her and all the members of her lovely family. The pictures were beautiful.

 Posted by Roger Jacobi - Naples, FL December 01, 2008

My prayers will def. go to the Bielski family. i have no where to start. she taught me how to play the clairnet when i was in sixth-seventh grade, which was 5-6 years ago at pinewood! its so sad that things had to end this way, but i know, you know, we all know that she is in a better place now..

 Posted by Ashley Norman - Grand Rapids, MI December 01, 2008

Jim and Emma - I am so sorry to hear of Kristen's passing. Although I have not had the privilege of meeting you both, I knew how important her family was to her. Kristen was a gifted teacher and an inspiration to her students and colleagues. She had a wonderful sense of hunor and was just simply a class act. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. May God be with you at this time and always.

 Posted by John DeStefano - Grand Rapids, MI December 02, 2008

My prayers go out to your family, You were my 1st band teacher and will always remember you for the rest of my life. May god keep your family strong.

 Posted by Marquin Shamsiddeen 7th grade Pinewood Middle - Kentwood, MI December 02, 2008

Words cannot express my deepest sorrow for the lost of Kristen. I met Kristen in drum corp and my fondest memories of her, is the smile that she always had. She was a beautiful person and she touched so many lives with that smile and her genuine kindness. Please take solace in knowing that she's now an Angel watching over and protecting your family.

 Posted by Derek - Manassas, VA December 02, 2008

Jim, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I can't imagine how difficult this must be...I just wanted you to know that my wife and I will be praying for you and your family, and we wish you well in the days ahead. Take care, friend.

 Posted by John Eaton - Brighton, MI December 02, 2008

Jim and family - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Kristen and I were roommates, fellow mellophone bandos, and each others' bridesmaids. I am sad to hear of such a bright light passing. I remember always looking up to Kristen as a model in everything she did, both professional and personal. My husband, Garret, and I will keep you, Jim, and your daughter Emma in our prayers. Alice Ernst

 Posted by Alice Ernst - Perry, MI December 02, 2008

I never really got to know Kristen personally. But I could tell through all of the middle school events, how proud of her students she was. As I grew up through Kentwood Public Schools, Mrs. Bielski was by far one of the best middle school directors. I've never heard anything bad about her. To the students, I hope to you that you keep Mrs. Bielski in mind as you continue on through school and keep playing with those very talents she helped bring out in you. To her friends and family, I'm so sorry for loss, May God Bless you as you work toward healing. Kristen is an idol to many and will remembered forever.

 Posted by Jenni Wilson - Kentwood, MI December 02, 2008

May God be with you all in your time of grief. The discipline of music have been impacted by her loss. May her spirit live on through her family and students.

 Posted by Louann Ditmyer - Wakefield, MI December 02, 2008

I have wonderful memories of Kristen from our college days in the Spartan Marching Band together, and I have immense respect for her work as a music educator. I am so sorry for your loss. Kristen was a very special woman.

 Posted by Susan Wiegandt Gould - Rockford, MI December 02, 2008

Jim & family: We are sorry for your loss. We will keep Kristen, you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

 Posted by Mike & Bridget Millar - Farmington Hills, MI December 02, 2008

Jim,
 My sincerest condolences on the passing away of your wife Kristen. Reading through the condolences, she was clearly a beautiful woman who had a great impact on family, friends, students and others. I'm sure she will be greatly missed.
 Sincerely yours,
 Duff

 Posted by Duff Lewis - Grand Rapids, MI December 02, 2008

She will be deeply missed, she was my 8th grade band teacher.

 Posted by Damian DeLano - Kentwood, MI December 02, 2008

Jim and Emma - Please accept my family's condolences on the passing of your wife and mom. From the letters in this guestbook, Kristen was an extraordinary woman who will be greatly missed by many people. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do to make things easier for you during this time.

 Posted by Mike Spaulding & Family - Essexville, MI December 02, 2008

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy at this sad time. Kristen was a shining star in the graduate program at VanderCook College of Music and will be missed by everyone. She was an incredible teacher and musician; a true gift to music education.

 Posted by Ruth Rhodes - Chicago, IL December 02, 2008

Jim, Emma, 
 We can never have enough angels to watch over us. Our thoughts and prayer are with you.

 Posted by Chuck, Sheri and Coby Moore - Pinconning, MI December 02, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Bielski family. Mrs.Bielski was a wonderful teacher. She always brought a smile to my face and made music so much fun. May God bring you comfort during this difficult time.

 Posted by Rachel Arnone - FL December 02, 2008

My prayers go out to Kristen's whole family. My memories of her in the Drum Corps are precious to me. I also remember with fondness seeing Roger and Sharon at the Drum Corps shows. Those were wonderful times for some of us, and I will keep all of you in my prayers.

 Posted by janet cook - saginaw, MI December 02, 2008

Dear Jim, Emma and Family, I was so crushed to hear of Kristen's passing. She will be missed by so many people, she influenced so many to be the best they could be, and she was such a wonderful role model. I feel blessed to have known her. Please know you all are in our prayers. Please take care, let me know if I can help in any way. Hugs to you and Emma!!

 Posted by Steve Chausow - Caledonia, MI December 02, 2008

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Mrs. Bielski's passing. I knew her from my days in the EK High School Marching Band. I remember her to always have a passion for her work and the students. I am praying for her and the family in what must be a very sad time. I wish the entire Bielski family and anyone who is touched by this good memories and peace.

 Posted by Laura Drago - Los Angeles, CA December 02, 2008

Dear Mrs. Bielski's family, I will be praying for you continuously. She was one of my favorite teachers and the one who taught me how to play the flute. She was always professional and made sure our band was really great before a concert! She made sure she brought the best out of her students. I'm sorry for your loss and again I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

 Posted by Janna Foster - Kentwood, MI December 03, 2008

Bielski Family We were saddened to hear of Kristen's passing. We will keep your family in our prayers during this difficult time. Kristin taught all four of our daughter's music when they attended Pinewood. They all loved and appreciated her gift of music she shared with them. She was an amazing teacher. God Bless you and keep you.

 Posted by Sandra, Sinh, Mandee, Gabrielle, Stathia & Noelle Nguyen - Kentwood, MI December 03, 2008

Roger and Jill,
 I never met Kristen, but I viewed the video, what a beautiful person. I think I will go home now and have a "Toddie" in her honor.
 my condolences to both of you and to the entire family.
 joe

 Posted by Joe Silva - holland, MI December 03, 2008

My deepest sympathies in the loss of Kristen. We had a wonderful professional relationship through Pinewood, as I teach many of her clarinet students. As I have met with my students this week, they have been greatly affected by her loss, and touched by her years poured out at Pinewood. As a mother with little ones at home, I grieve for sweet Emma. We have been and will continue to pray that God would comfort you as only He can.

 Posted by Jaime Hall - Kentwood, MI December 04, 2008

My sincerest sympathy to friends and family

 Posted by Tom Sims - Gettysburg, PA December 04, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and close friends of Kristen Bielski. I was a Senior and Color Guard Captain at East Kentwood her first year as our instructor. My memories of her are happy, warm, fun, passionate, youthful, excited, encouraging... we shared a love of Color Guard, Music, Drum and Bugle Corps. The last time I saw Mrs. Bielski was at the homecoming parade over a year ago. I had no knowledge of any illness, so I was shocked and awed to hear of her passing... I am sure she will be missed. My prayers go out for comfort of the hearts of those closest to her. I am so sorry for your loss.

 Posted by Angela Babb-Applewhite - Grand Rapids, MI December 05, 2008

Friends and family... Thank you all for your overwhelming kindness and support. Emma and I are very fortunate to have so many wonderful friends and family that care about us. Thank you for the letters, flowers, meals, financial support and kind words. Kristen wanted to beat this illness more than anything- so she could return to the class room and get back to being a normal mom- but the nightmare came true. Emma and I miss Kristen more than any words can describe. I still can't believe this happened. Time will hopefully help ease the pain but we'll never forget Kristen's smiling face, beautiful personality and caring touch raising Emma. Emma wrote a note to her mom the other day saying "to the best mom ever- I hope you're have fun in heaven, I miss you mom". Thank you all again for your kindness. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness.
 We love you Kristen! Jim and Emma

 Posted by Jim Bielski - Grand Rapids, MI December 07, 2008

Jim and Emma, I was saddened to hear about Kristen's passing. I have always admired Kristen's teaching very much. I had the opportunity to get to know her several years ago when I taught band in Forest Hills. I am so sorry for your loss.

 Posted by Peggy Babcock - Novi, MI December 09, 2008

Jim, Emma and Family,
 I am shocked and saddened to hear that Kristen is gone. We arrived into the Spartan Marching Band together as freshmen, and I had the pleasure of playing right next to her for most of those four years. She was such a funny, beautiful, and talented woman; she taught from day one and worked tirelessly. I am sad that I haven't seen her since those years, but seeing the pictures of her life with you sure made me smile.

 Posted by Dave Hoffman - Plainfield, IN December 09, 2008

I have just learned the sad news of Kristen's passing through an email from the MSU Alumni Band. I marched with Kristen from 1984-86 at MSU and remember her as having a gentle spirit, a heart-warming smile, and wonderful musical gifts. I pray that God will bless her family, friends, and students with comfort during this time. I will remember Kristen fondly for her smiles and laughter, and for dedication to the teaching and development of young people.

 Posted by Stephen White - Dallas, TX December 09, 2008

OBITUARY

Kristen D. Bielski

June 15, 1965 – November 28, 2008

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