Hello,

On November 9th our family lost the center of our universe, Karissa found her peace.

Karissa was a warrior, the leader of our family. A registered nurse, empathetic, genuine soul, my best friend and mother to four beautiful children, Jaiden, Ireland, Isabella and Roman. Over the last 11 years I was deployed four times and rarely home the rest of the year. Karissa always thrived, embracing the challenge. So much so that our home was functioning at its highest and most disciplined form when I was gone. I needed her much more than she needed me. Along with being an amazing cook, Karissa would also handle the masculine tasks around the house. If I ever tried to help the most I could offer her was holding a flashlight while she would be changing her oil or working on the plumbing.

Anyone who says that Karissa left us behind truly had no idea just how powerful and unique she was. She is very much with all of us, especially the children. Since her passing, our four children have been such an inspiration of strength, resiliency, and beautiful emotion. All things she taught them. All of her best qualities. The children have been leading me, through her.

Some of you may have seen another gofundme me for us. Unfortunately there was some miscommunication with what those funds were meant for. We have not and probably won’t receive any of those funds. For those of you who did donate, others and myself and working to get your money refunded. I am humbly, from the bottom of my heart requesting help to continue to preserve Karissa’s memory and support our children.

Here are some things we plan on doing (the kids chose most of these)