Our family and our community suffered an unimaginable loss. My cousin’s husband, my neighbor, and my dear friend, Clayton, was tragically killed in an accident, leaving behind his wife, Tracy and two children, Leah (14) and Colin (17).

Clayton was a retired Brooklyn Park police officer and a true staple of our small community here in Nowthen. Everyone knew Clayton—and he knew just about everyone. He was always on the road, helping someone, hauling equipment, or stopping in to BS at a local business. He was our neighborhood watch, always keeping an eye out for everyone on the street. That was just who he was: always looking out for people and helping in any way he could.

Nearly every morning, Clayton would stop by our house for his morning coffee and to say good morning. He was someone I talked to almost every single day—sometimes multiple times a day. He was LOUD, full of personality, and absolutely unforgettable. The voicemails and video messages he left were hilarious. You never got a simple “hello” from Clayton. One of his favorite lines was, “DO I GOTTA DEAL FOR YOU!” He was a character through and through, always joking and always finding a good deal.

Clayton was the provider for his family, taking on countless odd jobs to make ends meet—not just for his own household, but for so many others in the community as well. Money wasn’t always easy, but they got by, and he worked tirelessly to make that happen.

He was an incredibly proud father. Leah and Colin are both in wrestling, and their dad never missed a match. Leah was his sidekick, often accompanying him on jobs during the summer. The bond he shared with his kids was something truly special.

Tragically, Clayton lost his life doing exactly what he had always done—helping someone else. On icy roads, he stopped to assist a stranded motorist and was struck by another vehicle. Helping people wasn’t just something he did; it was who he was, through and through.

There are countless stories about Clayton—funny, wild, and heartfelt—and I wish I could tell them all. His loss will be felt by so many. He will be greatly missed.

This Christmas, I am hoping to help ease some of the burden for his family as they navigate this devastating loss. Any support, whether through donations, sharing, or prayers, means more than words can express.