Kaitlyn Alice, age 20, went to her Heavenly home on December 4, 2021. Kaitlyn was born on March 22, 2001, in Aberdeen South Dakota, to Todd and Jess Van Essen. She was the oldest of their three daughters. She was an amazing older sister to Megan and Adelyn, a role that she took very seriously. Kaitlyn graduated from Millard West High School in 2019, and was a student at Capitol Hair School, where she was due to graduate on her 21st birthday. During her time at Capitol, she discovered her love for lash extensions, and had decided to make that her main focus. Kaitlyn had the privilege of finding her soulmate, and spent the last year and a half in love with Graham Fleener. They were promised to be married. He was the perfect match for her loud, outgoing personality. Kaitlyn had many special talents, but one specific talent that her family and friends will always remember about her was her ability to nap anywhere, at any time. She will also be remembered for her love of life, passion for all things artistic, and her VERY loud, contagious laugh. Kaitlyn is survived by her parents Todd and Jessica, sisters Megan and Adelyn, soulmate Graham Fleener, Grandparents Harold and Lavonne Van Essen, Gary and Eloise Sikma, Doreen Casey, Great-grandparents Herbert and Alice Remmerde, five aunts, four uncles, and nine cousins. Gathering of Family & Friends: Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm at FaithWestwood United Methodist Church (4814 Oak Ln.) Celebration of Kaitlyn Alice’s Life: Friday, Dec. 10, 2021 at 11:00am at FaithWestwood United Methodist Church In lieu of flowers, The family will establish a 501(c3) in Kaitlyn’s memory to provide scholarships for aspiring lash artists at Capitol Beauty School. Braman Mortuary – Southwest Chapel 6505 S. 144 St. Omaha, NE 68114 402-895-3400
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