MAPLEWOOD — Karen Bermudez-Rodriguez had not one, but two loving families.

In addition to her blood relatives, she cherished her host family's two daughters in Maplewood as an au pair. On top of that, her fellow au pairs formed a close bond as well.

Bermudez-Rodriguez, 26, was killed Saturday allegedly by her boyfriend. On Wednesday night a vigil to remember her was held at Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church.

"Karen will be remembered as a very loving person with the biggest heart," read a pamphlet handed out to everyone in attendance.

In a highly spiritual night, those who came to pay their respect cried, prayed, sang and embraced each other. The Rev. Janice Lynn of Morrow Memorial said thoughts and prayers cannot change the circumstances but she was thankful for everyone who came to the vigil.

"We give thanks for her life of love and faith and service," she said of Bermudez-Rodriguez.

David Kimowitz, the father of the children Bermudez-Rodriguez cared for, was also killed Saturday. Kimowitz was laid to rest Wednesday afternoon, hours before more than 100 people paid tribute to Bermudez-Rodriguez at the vigil.

Joseph D. Porter was charged in Bermudez-Rodriguez's and Kimowitz's deaths. Bermudez-Rodriguez tried to end her relationship with Porter earlier in the day of the stabbing deaths, according to court documents.

Together the crowd on Wednesday lit candles and held them to the air, sending light to Bermudez-Rodriguez's family, Lynn said. Her family was not able to attend the vigil, as their flight was stuck in Washington, D.C. because of weather.

A fundraiser run by the Essex County au pair community for her funeral expenses reached its $35,000 goal.

The extended au pair family of the area lent their support Wednesday. Bermudez-Rodriguez joined the program to travel — one of her passions — and to improve her English.

Nikki Rene Rodriguez, a regular host of au pairs, did not know Bermudez-Rodriguez personally but said she could tell she was passionate about her work.

"She did a really good job of it," said Rodriguez, who also works with au pairs in the area. "She loved her two little girls. She showed them joy."

Bermudez-Rodriguez left people chocolate if they were sad, and helped them celebrate birthdays even if they just met, Rodriguez said.

"She was filled with love and caring, and she loved being here," Rodriguez said. "I wish I had met her."

A man named Jorge, who did not give his full name, said losing her creates a confusing feeling.

"I don't think we should allow someone who is mentally sick," he said, "to pollute our community."

Email: jongsma@northjersey.com

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