Kathy Chou I Call Your Name

COVID 19 is what is captivating the headlines in not only the suburb of Renton, WA. but in the world. Each day we see individuals suffering from the virus, fearful they may contract it, attempting to get tested, living in isolation, and for some the end result is death. Times are currently difficult, and often challenging. While investigations are still occurring to learn more about this virus, much of it we may never fully understand. While attempting to live a new “normal,” we must continue moving forward. Remembering to move forward after a difficult time is a lesson I was presented with ten years ago, and am reminded of each April.

Ten years ago this week a beautiful soul, and member of the Renton community departed our world at the hands of a killer, named Ezekiel James Watkins. A killer who believed that a young woman was causing problems in a new relationship he had established. He tricked her in to meeting up in a local woodsy area, murdered her, buried her there, and for a year watched many who loved and wished daily for her safe return search for her. The trial eventually occurs, sentencing happens, parents and friends comfort each other, and then what? People move on with their lives, and sometimes seemingly forget about the tragedy which has occurred. It is no longer front page news, and another tragedy moves to the forefront. Some of us remain in the area, Renton is our community, and we silently ride by the tragedy location on many occasions because it is near our home. The scene of the crime, it still feels painful, despite newly built homes now inhabiting the location. Things will never be the same in some ways.

Through the years the name Kathy Chou has been spoken throughout the area. Our local police have kept her name in the public eye. Local news anchors have said it repeatedly. The name Kathy Chou has traveled across the country, and networks have presented her story. In 2018 the Oxygen channel came calling and I had a chance to participate in the series Criminal Confessions. People deserved to know who Kathy was. A young woman that had been around our family for 8 years. My daughter’s friend, who even at age 18 in high school when children often don’t want to be seen hugging adults still made time to run to me, and embrace me with a tight hug. A young woman who lost her life much too soon.

Many women die at the hands of the men they love, and they shouldn’t be forgotten. We must remember to call out their names. Painful to relive everything, but this one I will always remember. The ID channel came to Renton and did their show-keeping Kathy’s memory alive in 2019 as well. So, as promised to Kathy’s mother after her passing, we will continue to do positive things, never forget her, and each year on the anniversary of her passing will call out her name.

Today I say Kathy Chou, Renton, WA. has not forgotten you.