Florence Kaman

Florence was born on December 7, 1929, to Frank and Elsie (Ripke) Nightingale, the 5th of 6 children and only girl. Born during a challenging time, Florence persevered her entire life, striving to be strong, striving to find the good in the world. When thinking of words to describe our mom, love and kindness quickly come to mind. Florence met Herb Kaman through an arranged double date. They soon found themselves married (1950) and looked forward to their life together. They would then spend 69 years together. Mom’s life was full and bountiful. Family was always important to her. She adored her husband of 69 years, raised two successful daughters, and kept a beautiful home and garden. One could still find mom working outside, raking leaves and pulling weeds and caring for her roses and snapdragons, as recent as just over 1 years ago. Mom was tireless in all things and was well known for her love of baking, trying new dishes at Herb’s request (especially green chili and menudo), tending to her gardens of vegetables and flowers, and always ready to help anyone with anything. Through the years, she helped care for her grandchildren, ready to walk with them to the nearby park, make their favorite foods, take them to school, pretend play, or throw the ball for a game of baseball in the backyard. She loved her dogs - first Shorty, then the Fritzi’s, Poni, Teddy, and Micky - through the years. Mom remained active her entire life; this was the one thing she especially missed this last year - not having the ability to “work outside”, to feel the sun on her face. Her daughters and grandchildren have inherited this love of the outdoors as well. Florence is survived by daughter Karen (Don) Hilmes and Linda (Alan) Berry. Grandchildren Amy (Randall) Schorlemmer, Kaylin (Danny) Donat and great grandbaby soon to come, Kyle (Leah) Berry, and Kurt (Nicole) Berry. We all will miss her kind words, friendship, sincere care and concern. Tough to the very end, our mom’s passion for life will live on inside all of us and for future generations to come. Mom was from a special generation that we may not see again - resilient, fearless, always pushing forward, never backing down. Mom, we’re glad you’re with dad now and may you watch over us from above and keep us safe in this world! We love and miss you dearly!

The family would like to thank the kind folks from Sangre de Cristo Hospice who helped us in her final days. We also want to voice our appreciation of Linda Jackson, NP, and Stephanie from Heritage Internal Medicine for caring for both mom and dad for many years. And finally, for mom and dad’s very special neighbor, Ted, whose kindness through the years will never be forgotten. In lieu of food and flowers, kindly contribute to PAWS for Life or Sangre de Cristo Hospice.

Florence's memorial service is scheduled for Friday, January 21, 10 a.m. at the Imperial Chapel. Graveside services immediately to follow at Imperial Memorial Gardens.