Casey Noriega

How fortunate all of us were to cross paths with one sassy lady with that slicked back ponytail, Miss Casey and her boundless energy! We just learned of her passing today in a ballet class after bumping into a fellow gymboree alum and it is hard to process such a loss to our community let alone for her own family.  Miss Casey knew just how to mingle and reach all of the children in her class and had such a cute sense of humor that the parents had a fun time as well.  She just sparkled, was unflappable and found her true calling by being a teacher who connected so effortlessly with our children. Our love and prayers go out to Rasheed, Casey's fiancee and her mother. Miss Casey, thanks for making a positive difference in all of our lives! Love, Kelly, Chris and Kit Vontz

My grandson (Liam Finley) just transferred to Miss Casey's gymboree class in early December.  

She was wonderful.  

At Liam's first class, Miss Casey brought out a car from the storage cabinet, and Liam spied a tractor in that cabinet.  Liam loves tractors.  He stood in front of the cabinet, jumped up and down, asked about the tractor, moved to where Miss Casey was teaching the rest of the group, jumped up and down some more, asked about the tractor again, and then repeated the cycle -- several times.  Finally after she moved the rest of the group to the next step, Miss Casey came over to Liam and said affectionately, "Lets see if we can get this out of your bones."  She brought out the tractor and let Liam play with it.  She told us how her son played with that tractor until he had grown out of it.  I could hear her affection for her son and I thought that her son was lucky to to have such a loving mom.  

Liam quicky moved from the tractor and joined the rest of the class.  I enjoyed watching a loving and effective teacher.

Miss Casey will be missed. 

Dear Casey & Family,

Our family is overwhelmed with grief that you are gone, but we are so filled with gratitude for your presence in our lives and know that your energetic love and joy will live on in our kids, comforting and inspiring them for the rest of their lives.  I too will never forget the relief you provided me as a new mom; I always took comfort in knowing that at least for those hours you were teaching my son, I could relax and just watch as my son was being entertained, inspired, and educated by someone far more talented than me.  Your energy and patience for our kids amazed me and gave me the extra push I needed on those especially frustrating days.  I wish I could put into words how your passing has impacted our family, or provide some comfort to your family, but I'm struggling to come up with words to express my feelings.  So for now, I'll just say this: you were an amazing, inspiring, energetic, wonderful, loving person and the kids you taught will forever be stronger, brighter, and more confident because of you.  My son is growing into a funny, fearless, clever, and loving human being, and we owe a large part of each of those attributes to the guidance and care you provided.  You will be missed more than words can say.  My wish for all of the families whose lives you've touched is that we may honor you and your family by never forgetting that every minute spent with the people we love is a precious gift, one to always be thankful for.  In gratitude and love, Julia    

Our daughter LOVED going to Ms. Casey's class on Saturday mornings and it was amazing to see how Ms. Casey could make her feel special and encouraged her to try new things.  Her laugh was infectuous and it was evident that she truly loved being around children.  She was an outstanding instructor and an amazing person, full of life, love and happiness.  We cannot begin to express how much we will miss her.  We will always remember Ms. Casey.  

My daughter was in Miss Casey's class at Gymboree. I'm not even sure for how long, but she & Casey created such a tight bond so quickly, and it was clear that, in Kate's eyes, there was no one who could compare to Miss Casey! She would bound out of bed on the days we had Gym with a big smile, declaring, "I get to go see Miss Casey today!!". When we'd arive at class, she would go running from the front door though the whole gym, joyfull yelling "Miss Casey!! Miss Casey!!!" as she flung herself into Casey's waiting arms for big hugs & kisses. Often, Casey would be engaged in another conversation, but she would effortlessley scoop Kate up, prop her on her hip, and give her a loving squeeze while she calmly finished her conversation. Kate always felt like the only kid in the room when Miss Casey was around. She would always manage to sneak her way into Casey's lap during story time, or hop up right in front of her for a quick snuggle & the best bounces on the air log. Seeing Casey was always the highlight of our week! Once Kate outgrew Gymboree, Casey & I kept in touch through Facebook. She was always the first to make a sweet comment on a new photo I'd post, or send a supportive note on a rough day. Casey was the most energetic, positive, joyful, loving, effervescent, enthusiastic, & bright soul I have ever met. Our lives are richer for having known her. We will miss her terribly, but will love her & remember her forever!!! 
Our thoughts & prayers are with her family. May your memories of this beautiful soul bring you some comfort during this difficult time. Rasheed, there is no doubt that YOU were her pride & joy, the light of her life! Thank you for sharing a little piece of your mommy with us.
Rest in peace, Dear Friend.