I’m a little shaken up at the news that Willem de Kooning’s only daughter, Lisa de Kooning, died at just 56 years old while in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Friday. How she died has not been revealed yet.
Lisa lives in Springs and for obvious reasons, was very well known around town. Her three kids were also well known in Springs and popular. For the daughter of such a famous man that grew up in Manhattan to truly become a Springs local is pretty rare. Bonackers are a tough group to get along with if you’re not from there.
Funeral services for Lisa will be private, but I know for a fact that a lot of people in Springs, and in Southampton for that matter, are going to be really shaken up by this news. She was the type of person that really lit up a room, and beamed with positive energy. For her light to go out at a young age really bothers me.
My deepest sympathies to her family and friends.
Truly a sad thing to hear. I will be in Saint John in a couple weeks and I am certain I will be listening to many stories about her and how she will be sorely missed. Most people here do not know she was a huge influence in Saint John and contributed to the National Parks System on that island. Here in the Hamptons she will be equally missed and revered.
Lisa’s life and friendship transcended all invisable lines of class and status in her life on the east end-in at least. I’m sure she was like this everywhere she went. Lisa played to her own drummer, but her love exteneded everywhere-especially to her children. Her parties were like going to a concert/zoo and carnival with the most lovesly people- no one I know but Lisa bould pull off individual massages, animals of all sourts, roaring fires, beautiful food and drink for ages 3 to 83, the most interesting people to the most injured from sadness or life’s circumstances who she has taken in like wounded birds–Lisa was unique in taking the gifts given to her both monetarily and persoanlly and giving them away while trying to keep a piece of herself at peace. Considering her life circumstance-it wasn’t an easy task. So many of us will miss her.
I hope the editors correct my spelling! I wrote this without my proper glasses :}