The Welch Family

Patrick leaves behind two beautiful young children (Gabriel and Sonja) and his loving wife, Cayla.   Cayla takes on the financial responsibilities of the family as she cares for her child through this difficult time.  Two weeks prior; Patrick found employment with another tucking company.  Benefits are limited due to the new employment.  Anything will help.



Obituary:
http://www.dapsonchestney.com/index_get2.php?article_id=857

What Cayla wrote about her last memory of Patrick: 

"This is the hardest thing I've ever written, and endured.

Thursday afternoon, Patrick and I took the kids on a bike ride. We had a wonderful time. He rode along beside me, and just looked at me with a smile on his face. He said, "Do you know what makes me the happiest in life? This. Just being here with my family."

That is my last memory of my husband, one that I will cherish as long as I live. Thursday night, he was gone.

Never in a million years did I think I would lose my husband, my best friend, my life partner, the father of my children - especially not at the age of 31. I was supposed to spend the next 50 years with Patrick....

Words cannot describe the tremendous pain I feel. There is a Grand Canyon sized hole in my heart; he'd always wanted to plan a family vacation to the Grand Canyon, by the way.

My love, how do I prepare myself to spend the rest of my life without you? How can I continue and stay strong for our children, knowing that I will never see you again? How do I put one foot in front of the other?

No relationship is perfect, and ours was certainly no exception. Just know that the hard times we had, don't matter any more. Mistakes were made by both of us. I will spend the rest of my life loving you, and making sure Gabriel and Sonja know how special they were to you. I would give anything to hear your infectious laugh right now, and to feel your arms wrap around me. This can't be real.

Patrick was too beautiful for this earth and anyone who knew him on a personal level, knew that he was wired differently than most people. He suffered a lifetime of demons, and my only comfort in this moment is that he is free from them now.

Mental illness is real, everyone. A person may appear fine to the outside world, but be broken inside. Tell your family and friends how much you love them while there is still a chance to. Never take a moment for granted. I wish I hadn't. #breakthestigma"

Patrick was a loving Father and I can't imagine the loss that Gabriel and Sonja feel.  Please help give what you can.