Austin Mourns Loss of Karen Kuykendall

As reported in a heartfelt eulogy on Michael Barnes' blog, Austin lost one its treasures yesterday. Karen Kuykendall passed away at the age of 69 from complications from cancer of the lungs and spine.

Ms. Kuykendall was so many things: funny, kind, amazingly talented, beautiful, friendly, bright...the list goes on and on. We met her a handful of times; she was always warm and truly delightful. And of course legions of Austinites will remember her for the long list of performances she turned on local stages. There's no end to the roles she could have, and should have, played. It's an understatement to say there's a sad, empty feeling in the Austin theatre community today.

As reported by Mr. Barnes, memorial contributions can be made online, or sent to the Karen Kuykendall Stage Fund, care of Zach Scott Theater, 1510 Toomey Road, Austin, 78704. There's a guest book online where friends and fans can write memories and share photos.

Photo from Michael Barnes' Out and About blog for The Austin American Statesman.