In Loving Memory of Jakob Sirlin — A Beloved Son, Cherished Friend, and Dedicated Student

The Pittsburgh community is mourning the heartbreaking and sudden loss of Jakob Sirlin, a young man whose life was tragically cut short following a devastating accident. Jakob was not only a beloved son and devoted friend but also a dedicated student at Taylor Allderdice High School, where his presence made a lasting impact on classmates, teachers, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Jakob’s passing has sent shockwaves through Pittsburgh, leaving family, friends, and his school community grappling with the pain of losing a vibrant young life full of promise and potential. Known for his kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved, Jakob embodied the best of what it means to be a friend, a son, and a member of a close-knit community.

At Taylor Allderdice High School, Jakob wasn’t just another face in the crowd — he was a student who stood out for his dedication, his drive, and his genuine kindness toward others. Whether in the classroom, on campus, or in his friendships, Jakob carried himself with humility and warmth. His teachers saw in him a young man eager to learn and to make a difference, while his peers saw a friend they could always count on — for a laugh, a helping hand, or simply a listening ear.

But beyond his academic life, Jakob was a beloved son and a treasured part of his family. His love for his family was evident in the way he spoke about them, the way he showed up for them, and the pride he carried in being their son. For his friends, he was more than a companion — he was family in every sense of the word.

The suddenness of his passing leaves a hole that words cannot fill. The grief is compounded by the shock of how quickly a life so bright can be taken away. The community now finds itself clinging to memories — the sound of his laughter, the moments shared, the ways Jakob made life better just by being present.

In this time of profound sorrow, our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with Jakob’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers. We stand together in mourning, supporting one another, and remembering a young man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course, and the community will have the opportunity to come together to honor Jakob’s life, celebrate his memory, and say goodbye to a soul taken far too soon.

Rest in peace, Jakob Sirlin.
Your light touched so many. You will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of David Trunecek — A Man of Faith, Family, and Unwavering Strength

Minneapolis, Minnesota, is grieving the heartbreaking loss of David Trunecek, a beloved husband, father, friend, and pillar of his community. David’s life was tragically cut short following injuries sustained in a farming accident — a sudden and devastating event that has left his family, friends, and community in deep mourning.

To know David was to know a man who lived with quiet strength, deep faith, and a heart full of love for those around him. His passing was not just a personal loss to his family but a profound blow to everyone who had the privilege of crossing his path. In a world too often lacking in integrity and compassion, David Trunecek stood as a rare example of both — the kind of man the world simply needs more of.

David is survived by his loving wife, Kate von Schledorn, their young son, and their unborn daughter, expected to arrive in just a few months. His wife, Jessica Lorntz Waite, also mourns the loss of a man who brought love and light into her life. The pain they now carry is immeasurable, but so too is the love and devotion David poured into his family every single day. As the spiritual leader of his household, David nurtured his family with faith, strength, and a steadfast belief in the goodness of God. His home was a place of love, faith, and unwavering commitment — values that will continue to echo in the lives of his children and loved ones.

David’s journey was marked not only by his dedication to his family and faith but also by a fierce battle with a rare and aggressive form of stage four colorectal cancer. Despite the immense challenges, David fought with courage and resilience, refusing to give up hope. He and his family spared no effort in seeking the best care, traveling great distances in their quest for healing. His fight was not just for himself but for those he loved most — a testament to his character and his boundless heart.

The news of David’s passing is unwelcome, painful, and deeply felt. Yet, his memory lives on in the lives he touched, in the faith he shared, and in the example he set for all who knew him. His was a life defined not by its length but by its depth — a life lived in love, service, and unwavering faith in God’s purpose.

In this time of profound grief, our thoughts and prayers are with David’s family. May they find comfort in the love and support of a community that stands with them, and may they be strengthened by the knowledge that David’s spirit lives on in every heart he touched.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course, offering all who loved him the opportunity to honor his extraordinary life.

Rest in peace, David Trunecek.
May your faith guide you home. May your love continue to light the way for those you leave behind. Fly high, good and faithful servant.

Lakeville Mourns the Loss of Beloved Racer and Community Champion Brandyn Ross

The community of Lakeville, Indiana, and the broader Midwest racing family are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Brandyn Ross, whose vibrant life was tragically cut short following injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Brandyn’s passing has left a void not only in the hearts of his family and friends but also within the tight-knit racing circles where his presence was a constant source of energy, encouragement, and camaraderie.

To know Brandyn was to know a man of fierce passion — not just for racing, but for life itself. His love for the sport took him across the region, from South Bend to Plymouth to Kalamazoo, where he left his mark on every track he touched. Brandyn was more than a competitor; he was a genuine soul who made time for everyone in the pits, offered a helping hand without hesitation, and cheered for others just as loudly as he chased his own dreams. His name became synonymous with sportsmanship, dedication, and heart.

But beyond the roar of engines and the thrill of the race, Brandyn’s deepest pride was his family — especially his son. Whether they were side by side at local events or soaking in the electric atmosphere of larger races like The Rumble in Fort Wayne, Brandyn’s devotion as a father shone as brightly as his passion for racing. He wasn’t just a participant in his son’s life; he was his biggest supporter, his mentor, and his hero.

The Ross family name has long been respected in racing circles, and Brandyn carried that legacy forward with humility and grace. His passing is a blow that resonates far beyond Lakeville, reaching into the hearts of fellow racers, fans, and community members who saw in him not just a competitor, but a friend and a steadfast supporter of others.

This loss is sudden, shocking, and deeply painful. In this time of grief, our hearts and thoughts are with Brandyn’s family, especially his son, as they navigate a world forever changed by his absence. We invite all who knew him — on the track, in the community, or in friendship — to pause, reflect, and offer a prayer for Brandyn’s gentle soul.

Funeral arrangements will be shared by the family in the coming days, offering friends, family, and the racing community a chance to honor and celebrate the life of a man who gave so much of himself to others.

Rest easy, Brandyn Ross. Thank you for the laps you shared, the lives you touched, and the legacy you leave behind. You will be missed more than words can say.

Fly high, Brandyn. Your race is run, but your spirit races on.

In Loving Memory of Dr. Kathleen Fabian — Cherished Obstetrician and Beloved Member of the Port Huron Community

Port Huron, Michigan, is a city in mourning following the heartbreaking and untimely death of Dr. Kathleen Fabian, a respected obstetrician, devoted mother, and cherished member of the community. Kathleen’s life was tragically cut short after she sustained fatal injuries in a shooting inside her own home — a place that should have been her sanctuary.

The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through Port Huron and St. Clair County, leaving family, friends, colleagues, and patients grappling with a profound sense of loss. For those who knew her, Kathleen was more than just a physician — she was a healer, a confidante, and a steadfast source of support during life’s most vulnerable moments. She was a professional who guided countless women through the joys and challenges of childbirth, bringing new life into the world and earning the enduring gratitude of hundreds of families.

Kathleen leaves behind grieving children, heartbroken family members, and a community that loved her deeply. Her passing is not just a private loss but a public wound for a city that respected her for her dedication, kindness, and compassion. To her children, she was a loving mother; to her patients, she was a trusted caregiver; and to her colleagues, she was a beacon of professionalism and empathy.

The circumstances surrounding Kathleen’s death are as tragic as they are disturbing. Reports have surfaced that her death followed repeated warnings about an individual suffering from deteriorating mental health who still had access to firearms. This senseless act of violence has renewed urgent conversations in Port Huron about mental health, community safety, and the responsibility to act before tragedy strikes. Friends, neighbors, and patients are now calling for justice, demanding that Kathleen’s death not be in vain but instead serve as a catalyst for meaningful change.

In this time of unspeakable pain, our thoughts and prayers are with Kathleen’s family, especially her children, who must now face a future without the woman who loved and guided them. We invite the community to stand together, offering strength, comfort, and prayers for Kathleen’s gentle soul.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course, allowing all who loved and admired her the opportunity to pay their final respects.

Dr. Kathleen Fabian’s legacy lives on — in the lives she brought into the world, in the countless hearts she touched, and in the memories of a community that will never forget her.

Rest in peace, Dr. Fabian. May your spirit soar free, and may your life inspire us all to cherish one another and to stand against violence in all its forms.

In Loving Memory of Chase Draper — #25 Forever in Our Hearts

The Jr Black Bears and the entire hockey community are mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of their own — #25, Chase Draper. The devastating news of Chase’s passing has sent waves of sorrow through locker rooms, rinks, and communities near and far. His absence leaves an unimaginable void not only for his family and friends but also for his teammates, coaches, and every person whose life he touched with his vibrant spirit and kind heart.

Chase was more than just a hockey player. He embodied the heart of the game — passion, perseverance, camaraderie, and joy. Whether battling on the ice or laughing with teammates off it, he gave his all. Known for his fierce determination, sportsmanship, and unwavering team spirit, Chase quickly became a role model both within his team and in the broader hockey community. His jersey, #25, has now become a symbol of strength, unity, and the incredible impact a young athlete can have on so many lives.

Off the ice, Chase was a friend you could count on — loyal, compassionate, and always quick with a smile. His kindness extended to everyone he met, making each person feel seen and valued. Whether it was offering a helping hand, lifting a teammate’s spirit, or sharing a quiet word of encouragement, Chase led by example with a heart full of grace and empathy.

In honor of Chase’s legacy, the hockey community has come together in a poignant gesture of remembrance — placing hockey sticks outside homes, locker rooms, and arenas. This simple act has become a powerful tribute, symbolizing unity, strength, and the bond that connects all who love the game. It is a visible reminder that Chase’s spirit lives on in every heart he touched and every life he inspired.

For those seeking ways to support the Draper family during this unimaginably difficult time, the Howard Huskies organization has organized a Meal Train: Together for Chase. This effort not only provides practical support to his grieving family but also offers a space for friends, teammates, and members of the community to share cherished memories, heartfelt stories, and photos of Chase. It stands as a testament to the incredible outpouring of love and solidarity that Chase’s life — and now, his memory — continues to inspire.

As we come together to honor Chase, may we hold close the lessons he taught us through the way he lived: to play with heart, to love deeply, to support one another, and to always lift each other up.

Rest in peace, Chase Draper. You will forever be remembered, forever loved, and forever #25.

In Loving Memory of David W. Altchek, MD — A Pioneer, Mentor, and Beloved Healer

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr. David W. Altchek, a towering figure in the field of sports medicine and a cherished colleague at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) for decades. His loss is felt deeply within the medical community, among his peers, his countless patients, and all those privileged to have worked alongside him.

Dr. Altchek was far more than an exceptional orthopedic surgeon — he was a pioneer whose brilliance and vision helped shape the future of sports medicine. Known for his extraordinary technical expertise, innovative techniques, and unwavering dedication to patient care, he became a trusted name among professional athletes, weekend warriors, and anyone seeking relief from injury.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Altchek’s hands not only repaired injuries but restored hope. His patients knew him not just for his surgical precision but for his compassion, kindness, and genuine commitment to their well-being. For many, his skill meant the difference between a career-ending injury and a triumphant return to the field. For all, his care meant healing in both body and spirit.

At HSS, Dr. Altchek’s influence reached far beyond the operating room. As a mentor and teacher, he invested deeply in the next generation of orthopedic surgeons. He freely shared his knowledge, techniques, and passion for the craft with young physicians around the world, helping to elevate the standards of care in sports medicine globally. His legacy lives on in the countless surgeons he trained, many of whom now lead in their own right, carrying forward the lessons learned from a master.

His impact was also profoundly personal to his colleagues and friends. Those who knew Dr. Altchek remember him for his humility, integrity, and the warmth with which he approached every relationship. He was as generous with his wisdom as he was with his time, always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply share a moment of genuine human connection.

Dr. Altchek’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter, but his legacy endures — in the lives he changed, the careers he shaped, and the field he helped redefine. His contributions will continue to inspire not only those within HSS but the broader world of medicine for generations to come.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, patients, and all who mourn this profound loss. Though Dr. Altchek may no longer walk among us, his spirit, dedication, and enduring influence remain an integral part of who we are and what we aspire to be.

Rest in peace, Dr. David W. Altchek. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Dakota Brooke Thacker — A Life of Faith, Love, and Unforgettable Joy

With hearts full of sorrow yet overflowing with love, we honor the beautiful life of Dakota Brooke Thacker, a radiant daughter, sister, friend, nurse, and horsewoman whose journey on this earth came to a close on July 13, 2025, as she went home to her Heavenly Father. Dakota, born on June 8, 1995, in Gainesville, Florida, blessed this world for thirty precious years, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, faith, and fierce determination.

The beloved daughter of Shannon Preston Thacker and Brandee Moody Barnes, Dakota grew up in Starke, Florida, where her love for life and adventure became apparent from an early age. A proud Keystone Heights High School Class of 2013 graduate, Dakota shined as a standout member of the volleyball team. Her athletic talent and competitive spirit earned her a volleyball scholarship to Lake Sumter State College, a reflection of her drive and dedication to everything she pursued.

But Dakota was never one to stop chasing her dreams. In 2016, she packed her bags and headed to South Dakota State University, where she continued her journey as a collegiate athlete—this time on the college rodeo team. There, she formed lasting friendships and created cherished memories that she carried with her always. Rodeo wasn’t just a sport for Dakota; it was a part of who she was. Her love of horses and barrel racing started in childhood and grew into a lifelong passion that reflected her spirited heart and love of the outdoors.

Returning home to Bradford County in 2019, Dakota poured her energy into serving others. With a heart full of compassion, she pursued a career in nursing, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate and touching lives at Lake Butler Hospital. Never one to be complacent, she recently embarked on the bridge program to become a Registered Nurse, determined to further her calling of helping others in their most vulnerable moments. Dakota’s nursing career wasn’t just a job — it was a reflection of her nurturing spirit and her unwavering desire to make a difference.

Beyond her many accomplishments, Dakota will be remembered most for the love she freely gave. Her laughter was infectious — the kind that could light up a room and lift even the heaviest heart. Her smile, her quick wit, and her knack for finding joy in the everyday brought comfort and happiness to countless friends and family. She had a rare gift of making everyone around her feel seen, valued, and loved.

Her faith was a quiet but powerful force in her life. Though she often said she wasn’t perfect, Dakota loved Jesus deeply and lived her faith authentically. She shared that love openly with those around her, becoming a living testament to grace, resilience, and hope.

Dakota’s heart extended beyond people to her beloved animals — her loyal dogs Waylon and Judd, and her cherished horses Nel and Juno. Whether on horseback, at work, or with her family, Dakota’s spirit of adventure and unconditional love never wavered.

She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Martin & Judy Thacker, and her maternal grandfather, Robert “Bobby” Moody. Dakota is survived by her loving parents: Shannon (Amanda) Thacker of Melrose, FL, and Brandee (Richard) Barnes of Brooker, FL; her twin brother and lifelong best friend Dalton (Taylor) Thacker; her sister Josie Barnes; her stepsisters Kelsey & Kendra Hassell and Chelyen Barnes; her stepbrother Hunter Barnes; her maternal grandmother Diane Moody; her aunt Nikki (Mitchell) Gunter; and her precious niece Wiley Anne Thacker — along with countless friends, coworkers, and members of the community who loved her dearly.

A Memorial Celebration of Dakota’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Sampson City Church of God, with Brother John Frampton and Pastor Mike Connor officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are under the care of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler (386-496-2008 ). A separate celebration of Dakota’s life will be held at a later date.

As we mourn Dakota’s passing, we also celebrate a life lived fully and beautifully. May we carry forward her legacy by loving deeply, laughing often, and living with the passion and heart that defined Dakota every day of her life.

Rest in peace, Dakota. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.

In Loving Memory of Louis Todaro — A Life That Shined with Music, Friendship, and Heart

With profound sadness and hearts heavy with grief, we remember Louis Todaro of Wayne, New Jersey, a vibrant soul whose passing leaves a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the entire community he called home. Known for his electric energy, unwavering loyalty, and infectious passion for music, Louis was a force of light in the lives of so many — a light that will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Louis was a proud graduate of DePaul Catholic High School, where his charisma and natural ability to form lasting bonds earned him friendships that endured through the years. From the hallways of DePaul to every corner of Wayne, Louis’s name became synonymous with loyalty and genuine connection. He had a heart that welcomed everyone, always eager to lift up those around him with his signature smile and larger-than-life personality.

Music wasn’t just a hobby for Louis — it was part of his identity. His love for the art was evident in the way he shared it, whether performing, supporting fellow musicians, or simply bringing people together through the joy of sound. His passion was contagious, and his presence could light up any room, any gathering, any stage.

But beyond the laughter, the music, and the fun, Louis will be remembered for his heart — a heart that loved deeply, gave freely, and embraced everyone as family. His loyalty to those he loved knew no limits. Whether it was a lifelong friend, a new acquaintance, or a family member, Louis made people feel valued, seen, and cared for.

To his family, he was more than a son, a brother, or a relative — he was a source of pride, joy, and unconditional love. His legacy within his family will be carried forward in the memories shared, the traditions he helped build, and the love he gave so openly.

The Wayne community now feels the deep ache of losing a man who was a cornerstone of friendship, music, and genuine human connection. Yet, amid the sorrow, there is gratitude — gratitude for having known Louis, for the moments shared, and for the example he set in living life to the fullest with heart and authenticity.

As we say goodbye, we also say thank you. Thank you, Louis, for the music, the laughter, the memories, and the love. You leave behind a legacy that echoes far beyond words — one that lives in every heart you’ve touched.

Rest in peace, Louis Todaro.
You will be forever missed, forever remembered, and forever loved.

In Loving Memory of Kobe Rayden Maltizo (April 17, 2013 – July 12, 2025)

With hearts full of sorrow and love, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Kobe Rayden Maltizo, a bright and beloved young soul who left this world far too soon on the morning of July 12, 2025. At only 12 years old, Kobe touched the lives of all who knew him with his kindness, boundless energy, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family and friends.

Born on April 17, 2013, Kobe was the treasured son of Annamarie Cadapan Merced and Guiffre Ryan Maltizo, and a cherished brother to Kayla, RJ, Christian, and Kenny. He brought endless joy to his proud grandparents: Cesar Merced, Saturnina Merced, Edwin Maltizo, and the late Roseviminda Maltizo.

Kobe lived his life with a heart full of love, a spirit full of adventure, and a personality that could light up any room. Those who had the blessing of knowing him will always remember him as a kind, well-mannered, caring, and genuinely joyful boy. His comedic nature and quick wit made him the life of every gathering — the “goofy, loud one” whose laughter echoed throughout the home and left lasting memories with family and friends alike.

Kobe poured his heart into everything he did. His passion for sports was unmatched — a proud member of the Carol Stream Panther Youth Football Team, where he built bonds with teammates and earned the admiration of his coaches for both his talent and his humble, hardworking spirit. His dream of one day becoming a professional football player fueled his determination both on and off the field. He also took pride in competing as a wrestler for Stratford Middle School, always pushing himself to grow stronger.

But Kobe’s true strength lay in the relationships he nurtured. With his siblings, he shared a unique and unbreakable bond. He sought out new adventures and tasted new foods with his Ate Kayla, talked sports and strategy with Kuya RJ, shared a shadow-like closeness with Christian, who was rarely more than a step behind him, and filled the home with giggles and playful tickles with Kenny. These relationships were the center of Kobe’s world and the source of countless cherished moments.

Beyond his family, Kobe was a loyal and loving friend. Whether he was playing video games into the night with his closest friends or spending the day outdoors fishing and biking, Kobe was always surrounded by laughter and love. His friendships were built on genuine care and shared joy — the hallmarks of a boy who simply loved to make others happy.

Today, as we mourn this unimaginable loss, we also give thanks for every smile, every laugh, and every precious memory shared with Kobe. His life, though brief, was a shining example of love, joy, and the beauty of living with an open heart. Though he has left this world, Kobe’s spirit will continue to guide us — his laughter, his energy, and his love living on in the hearts of all who knew him.

We invite Kobe’s friends, teammates, and members of the Carol Stream community to join us in honoring his memory during visitation on Tuesday, July 22nd, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bucaro Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 485 W Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. A time for sharing stories and heartwarming experiences with Kobe will be offered.

On Wednesday, July 23rd, family and friends will gather for a Funeral Mass at 10:45 AM at St. Isidore Parish, 427 W. Army Trail Rd, Bloomingdale, as we come together in prayer and remembrance. Interment will be private.

As we celebrate Kobe’s remarkable life, let us hold tight to the joy he gave us and carry forward his legacy of laughter, love, and kindness. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Rest in peace, dear Kobe. You are forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

In Loving Memory of John Tuttle — A Legacy of Love, Integrity, and Quiet Strength

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we come together to honor the life and memory of John Tuttle — a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and pillar of the community. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, yet his legacy of kindness, integrity, and unwavering devotion will live on in the countless lives he touched.

John was a man defined by quiet strength and steadfast character. He led not with loud words, but with meaningful actions — the kind of person who showed up when it mattered most, who offered a steady hand and a listening ear when others needed support. His loyalty to his family, friends, and community was unwavering, a reflection of the deep values he held close throughout his life.

To his family, John was the heart of the home. A devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather, he poured his love into every relationship, nurturing bonds that will remain unbroken by time or distance. His wisdom guided, his patience taught, and his unconditional love anchored those closest to him. His family will forever cherish the quiet moments, the shared laughter, and the invaluable lessons he imparted simply by living with honesty and humility.

Beyond his role as a family man, John was a true friend and respected member of the community. Whether through his work, his service, or his quiet acts of kindness, he earned the admiration of all who crossed his path. Friends describe him as dependable, generous, and genuine — someone you could count on in times of both joy and hardship.

Though John never sought the spotlight, his influence was undeniable. He believed in hard work, in doing what was right even when no one was watching, and in treating others with respect and dignity. His legacy is reflected in the lives of those he mentored, the friends he supported, and the family he loved so deeply.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived — a life marked by love, purpose, and an unshakable faith in the goodness of people. The pain of losing John is profound, but we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the values he instilled, the memories we treasure, and the community he helped build.

In the days ahead, may we carry forward John’s legacy by embracing the qualities he exemplified: kindness, humility, integrity, and love. Let us honor him not only with our words but with our actions, by living as he did — with purpose, with compassion, and with a heart always open to others.

Rest in peace, John Tuttle.
Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure