Death Cafe at the Blue Lotus Temple

A 'Death Cafe' is an informal gathering where people come together to discuss death and dying in a safe and supportive environment. Please join us in community with a goal of increasing awareness of the role death plays in our lives, reducing fear and anxiety surrounding death, and safely discussing topics and emotions surrounding death and grief. Topics may include facing our own death, loved ones we have lost, or deaths that will inevitably occur

All are welcome. Tea and snacks will be served.

Suggested donation $10.

About Tona Kast

I am a Colorado native and a proud 20-year resident of Crystal Lake. I have been attending the Blue Lotus Temple for the last 15 years, a true gem in my life that has enriched my spiritual journey. I retired from a career as a Program Manager last summer. I embraced my passion for compassionate care and completed a certification program as a Death Doula through the University of Vermont in December of 2025. I currently serve as a Hospice Care Companion Volunteer with Journey Care Hospice.

My husband of 29 years and I enjoy spending time doing a variety of activities in the great outdoors, gardening & exploring thrift shops & estate sales. Together, we cherish our family life, including our three amazing adult children and a delightful granddaughter who is the cherry on top of our family cake.

Traveling, reading, decorating and practicing yoga bring me great joy and help me stay grounded. I have a deep passion for discussing death, viewing it as a significant spiritual journey that deserves open conversation rather than fear. I believe that by sharing in these discussions, we can find solace, reduce fears and embrace our life's most profound moment.

I look forward to fostering open conversations about life, death, and the journey in between!