Born on May 17, 1946 to Launita and Charlie Kitchen in Arkansas, CJ moved to Northern
California when she was just 7 years old. Throughout her childhood, she loved to play with her
six brothers and sisters, and often found herself on the softball field with the boys or water skiing
at the lake.
CJ was always an incredibly artsy person, from her love of music to her passion for all things
crafty. Not only did she play the piano, banjo, and guitar; she was also a pro at woodworking,
crocheting, and sewing, to name just a few of her many talents. The beach and the coast were
places of solace for CJ, where she loved to collect agates (and craft with them, of course) and
watch the sunset.
Like her talents, CJ’s sense of humor was unparalleled. She never failed to put a smile on the
face of those around her, and always had a witty and memorable comment for every situation.
CJ leaves behind a lasting legacy, through her many friends and relatives and the beautiful art
she has left for us all to enjoy for years to come. She is survived by her husband Peter Houtman
of 35 years, her daughter Robin and husband Mark, son Matthew, stepson Jim and wife Tracy,
and sister Tawnya Shumaker, along with her many grandchildren and close friends whom she
cherished.
She will be missed tremendously by all that knew her.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.2