On June 19th, 2021, my family, sadly, lost a son, a big brother, a grandson, an uncle, a nephew, a cousin, a loved one….a precious part of our family…..our Chad.....my nephew.

Chad was, to some, a miracle baby. Mostly to my mom, though. She firmly believes that her Chad was a gift from God, and as the first grandbaby, grandson, he held a pretty special place in her heart.

I think that everyone who really got to know him felt the same. A sweet big goofy guy.

Like his dad, he teased a lot. The closer he felt with you, the more he teased. He was kind, and gentle, and accepting.  

My brother’s best buddy.

He loved big and with his whole heart.  His loves included his family, his girlfriend, and his puppy.  

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, curling, gaming and streaming.  

The events of the past few days are surreal and completely unbelievable. I don’t think we have really been able to comprehend how this even could be.

Chad went in to have surgery done to remove his tonsils……and now he is gone.

There was a sequence of events that lined up that were just not in Chad’s favor. He rallied so hard, and at one point, we thought he was through the worst.

My big brother was a single dad for Chad, since before Chad was a year old, until he met Heather, and it took a village to raise our boy. Most of that same village was there to say goodbye to him at the end.

Our hearts are broken, and, like any family who loses a loved one, especially so suddenly and tragically, our happy will be missing for a while. Numbness, shock and devastation seem to be at the forefront right now.

We are thankful and grateful for all kindness, grace, and prayers being offered. I know they helped us, gave us strength and courage and we were all able to see him one last time. If you don't mind, can I ask that you please continue to send those prayers of strength for the tough days ahead for my family and for Pearl, his mom.  Thank you.

Many of you have reached out to us and have asked how you can help us during this time. We really want to honor Chad's memory, and if you are able to and comfortable doing so, possibly in lieu of flowers, we would really appreciate any donation, big or small, towards  incurred expenses.

Thank you again for your support during this time. We cannot express how deeply touched we are by all who have reached out.

To my brother’s family, we love you and will always continue to talk about our boy. His memory and legacy will always be remembered and shared and honored. They say time heals, but we know it will never be the same for you.

Chad, buddy, you will be so deeply and sadly missed. We will learn how to go on without you, I know, but we wish we didn’t have to. We are so proud of you and what you were creating in your life. Thank you for loving us with all of your heart. Our love for you will never fade.

Until we see you again…..bye bud