Kaylen Elizabeth Birk

Of Wauwatosa, passed away peacefully and went home with God on Saturday, September 15, 2012, with Mom and Dad by her side, holding her little hands. Kaylen was a very active, healthy and vibrant six year old child when, in April 2012, she was diagnosed with a rare and inoperable brain tumor that forever changed our lives. Kaylen fought this disease until the very end and refused to let it change how she wanted to live.Born on September 20, 2005 in Milwaukee. While on earth only for a short while, she was so very smart and wise beyond her years. She continuously made us and everyone she knew laugh with her sharp wit and strong personality. Kaylen was a great little sister to Thomas, who misses her so very much. While they would argue and be annoyed with each other, as siblings often are, Kaylen and Thomas had such a strong bond and they really loved each other. Not a day will pass when we won't be thinking about our Kaylen, especially during those special times we spent together, including our annual Door County camping and "up-north" trips. She actively loved dancing, singing, running, playing, and caring for her dog Sophie.Loving daughter of Jon and Kathy Birk and sister to Thomas Birk. Precious granddaughter of David and Carolyn Birk, and the late Marion Pfannerstill-Rogo and Prosper John Pfannerstill, Jr. Loved by all of her many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She also had many, many friends from school and her neighborhood that also loved her dearly.Visitation at ST. SEBASTIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5400 West Washington Boulevard, Thursday, September 20, 2012, 3:00-7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial at 7:00 PM. Private burial.The family extends special thanks to all the doctors and nurses at Children's Hospital of WI and Lurie Children's Hospital Chicago that cared for Kaylen during this devastating battle, and especially to her pediatrician, Dr. Timothy Richer. To all her family and friends, Lincoln School, those special people who gave time, effort and energy to the many Kaylen-events and fundraisers, and the entire Wauwatosa community for their support on this journey."We will love you forever"