Remembering Mariano Veliz

There are some people who walk into your life and instantly fill it with light- Mariano was one of those people. At just 17 years old, he had a heart that could fill a room and laugh that could lift anyone’s spirit. He was the kind of person that made you feel better just by being around him.

Mariano had a natural way of making everyone feel seen and loved. He was deeply respectful and treated everyone no matter young or old with kindness.. but where he shined the brightest was around kids. He loved them and they loved him right back..

It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to lose someone like Mariano — someone so young, with so much life and love ahead of him. Our hearts are broken, and we’re still trying to understand how to move forward without his laughter echoing through our days.

He helped his family whenever he could.. never complained, never hesitated — because that’s just who he was. A son, brother, and friend you could always count on.. He was always very grateful for even the smallest things in life. Our hearts are shattered, but we take comfort in knowing that Mariano’s spirit; his laughter, his kindness, his gratitude.. will live on in every life he touched.

We’ve created this GoFundMe to help Mariano’s family give him the beautiful farewell he deserves, one that reflects the love and light he brought into this world. Every donation, no matter the size, will go toward funeral costs & the memorial service. Help us honor him in the way he deserves.

If you can’t donate, please share this page or leave a memory of Mariano. Hearing how he made others smile brings us comfort and reminds us of the incredible person he was.