My name is Christie Ajakie and as many of you have already heard, my nephew, Ryan Kruse, was shot at his home on April 4th. His girlfriend was shot and killed, and the shooter then committed suicide. Ryan remained in critical condition until April 10th when he went to be with the Lord. We are overwhelmed with grief as our lives have been forever scarred.

Ryan was my brother’s only child. He was a good kid! Tommy & Su-Ching taught him to never be a fighter or troublemaker. He was a good friend and loved life. My poor brother and his wife have had to endure not just the senseless loss but also the clean-up of such a horrific situation. It happened in their home, on their couch, and in their front yard. No one should ever have to clean up their child’s murder. Now they have to pay the unexpected price of funeral and burial. I don’t wish this upon anyone!

Many have reached out to ask what they could do to help! First, I would say, be kind, be forgiving; you never know what someone is going through. If you know of someone struggling with mental illness or uncontrolled sadness, please seek help for them. Don't ignore it. Talk about it. If anyone is interested in helping Tom & Su-Ching with the cost of the cremation and cemetery, we would greatly appreciate it. Any amount is appreciated! Lastly, do something you've always thought would be fun and think of Ryan. Take a trip, go skydiving, learn something fun! It will help keep his memory alive.