James Matsuba recently died suddenly of what the medical examiner concluded was an aortic dissection. He was only 42 years old. Words can't describe how heartbroken we all are.

We wanted to raise money for his wife Lauren, hoping that the funds will help pay for funeral expenses and to help her transition into a life without her beloved James at her side. We wanted to do something more significant, thinking that on the strength of family, friends and loved ones' cumulative efforts, the assistance would be more powerful.

For all those who knew James, he was an amazing man and a wonderful person. He was always completely immersed in what he was doing, never not completing a task without a whole hearted and studied attempt. James was always fully present. He was go-getter, with incredible forward thinking, driven to share his life, time and energy. He always strived to better lives around him.

James was generous, kind and loving. He was not comfortable with conflict and he did not waste time in reframing or expressing the positive in a conversation or situation. We believe that James was gifted through the Holy spirit as a peacemaker, desiring peace, love and kindness to exist for all. He was gentle, humble and compassionate. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience “(Colossians 3:12).

As Long as we have known him, we have never heard him say one negative thing about anyone. Scripture in Ephesians 4:29, says “do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” It is a stark reminder for us to focus on the positive, find the silver lining in things, and only think and say what is uplifting.

James loved Lauren the way a husband should love his wife. He devoted himself to loving her and making her comfortable. Observing his relationship with Lauren and then through his death, is a lesson for us to be better Christians, better parents and to love each other. It is a reminder for us to live out the rest of our lives, letting go of the daily worry regarding present trials, to be more patient, kind, slow to anger and to be more loving to everyone around us. It is a lesson for us to have stronger faith and to keep our eyes on the eternal, Colossians 3:2 tells us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things." Matthew 6:19-20 encourages us to "store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. "

We can still hear his joyous laugh and see his wonderful smile. There is no doubt in our mind that James is in Heaven with Jesus and all the Angels. We pray the love and peace of the Christ fills the hearts of you Lauren and all those who are mourning his untimely death.

Love Mika and Glen