Room Dedications For some Special Donors

Rivka Van De Graaff

Rivka Michelle Galbraith Van De Graaff was a woman who was no stranger to pain and challenges in her life. She battled cancer when she was 16 years old, again at 34 years old, and eventually succumbed to it at age 55.  Against all odds, she had three children and as of her passing in July of 2019, she had eight grandchildren.  Much beloved as a wife, mother, and grandmother, she loved ripe peaches and babies’ toes.  She was a planner, a researcher, an adventure seeker, a traveler, an independent thinker, a reader, a weird-humored and foreign film lover, a new born baby snuggler, a napper, a roll your sleeves up and go to worker, a scarf wearer, a saver, a deal shopper, an example setter, an observer, a crusty bread lover, a fresh flower appreciator, a server, a listener, a spiritual prompting follower, a mother, a grandmother, a Savior Jesus Christ worshipper--she was many things, but perhaps most importantly she was a faithful fighter until the very end of her brief life.  Our family is pleased to honor Rivka with our support of Pelican Cove Counseling Centers in its mission to uplift the downtrodden and help each person to experience their life as fully as Rivka did hers.

Carol Sorensen

Carol Sorensen was known for many things: her off-beat sense of humor, her quick wit, her ability to write a funny song, her creativity, her love of teaching and children, her love of her family. Above all, though, she was known for being an amazing friend. When she was with you, she gave you her full attention. No one listened like Carol. Her thoughtfulness was renowned. She always, always wanted to make people feel special. It was apparent at her funeral, when with only 4 days notice, over 300 people came from near and far to pay their respects. Even into her 60’s she had best friends still from grade school and college that she talked with regularly. She had incredible perspective. People would sit and talk to her for hours…sometimes even perfect strangers, and within minutes they were telling her their entire life story. People felt comfortable and at ease around her. They felt unjudged by her. She was constantly being sought for her advice and perspective. When her daughters had slumber parties, they would sometimes find their friends sitting in the kitchen talking with her instead of joining the party. Their friends would call on the phone..not to talk to them..but to their mom. Everyone knew they had a home at Carol’s house. She was fun, edgy, accepting, empathetic, and creative. She gave people hope, insight, perspective and unconditional love. She would be honored, humbled and thrilled to be a part of such an amazing idea like Pelican Cove.

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If you are interested in finding out how to dedicate a room to honor a loved one, please contact Paula Cook: PCook@pelicancove.org.