On Friday, police announced that Rita Kagawa's body had been found near Yelm. She disappeared just a day before she was supposed to get a divorce settlement.
Family members say Rita was a little shy. When cameras would come out at a family gathering Rita would slip away. She never looked for attention
"Rita did not like to be photographed so there are very few pictures of Rita,” said Linda Terronez, Kagawa’s sister-in-law.
That's why a photo mounted on a wood plaque is now so precious..
"When people are gone and just their spirit remains, the picture is all you have left,” said Terronez.
On Friday they got the news there wouldn't be another chance for pictures
"It was still shocking even though we've had six weeks to know that she's missing, where is she what happened to her,’ said Terronez.
Kagawa's body had been found along Highway 510. Police say it's a homicide and have focused on the her apartment where she was last seen by her ex-husband. Her family says they want justice for Rita, but they're focusing on her children..
"Melanie 13:30:14 “She was such a loving and caring mom and she did everything for her kids,” said Rita’s niece, Melanie Redman.
If they could go back, they'd force her to take more photos. Instead they will cherish the images and feelings that remain.
“Definitely had a beautiful spirit, loving and kind Spirit, both of her children had that spirit so it will continue on,” said Terronez.
