As many of you know, Kolton was taken from us too soon. I don't know the feeling of losing a child early, but I understand grief far too well. I ask that anyone who has a story of how Kolton impacted their life share that joy, as his family will read every story with laughter or joy and shed tears to help process, and it will reinforce how much this young man made a difference in the lives he touched. I myself have many childhood memories of his goofiness, but more recently we had connected, and I let him cook a porterhouse steak. We had some conversations that were rough, but he still had jokes and put on a smile and forced me to wear one, he did life his way and I find it's own nobility in that. I am going to share something that I think was beautifully written by his sister Kasity, and the context of this excerpt was prepared for the people who helped Kolton move forward in his next role of helping others, as he was a donor and helped others with his selfless final gift. Please donate to help cover final expenses as his mother Tacey and all his family were not prepared for this. Thank you!

Moment of silence / honoring Kolton in the OR

Kolton lived a life that hasn’t always been easy. He struggled for much of his life with never feeling good enough and never feeling seen. Although he was faced with wars that he battled in his head daily, he always found a way to be a light to everyone he encountered. He was funny, sometimes a bit stubborn, selfless, and had a passion for people. He spent time complimenting others, serving his friends in any capacity needed, and lifting others up in need. His smile and laugh could turn your hardest days around and make your hardest days feel brighter and lighter. Kolton had a love for the outdoors; he loved riding (and crashing) dirt bikes & quads that were often too big for him. He loved fishing & hunting in the mountains. He had a deep love for animals and had quite a few pets throughout his short life, including snakes and other reptiles. Kolton enjoyed the simple things in life like a gallon of milk with Oreos, a bonfire surrounded by friends, a good burger with a milkshake, and taco pizza. Kolton was a sibling of 6, a son, an uncle, and a friend to many. Today, we know that he finally lays here proud. More proud than he’s likely ever felt in his life. He wanted nothing more than to feel seen, to feel like others were proud of him, and to feel loved by others. Today, Kolton has the ability to bless others through his gracious gift of life to others, and we can confidently say he is looking down, cracking a few jokes, & smiling at all of you right now.