Bryce

This is crazy picture of our neighbor and friend Bryce Christensen. Bryce was killed in a tragic car accident this morning, January 7, 2009. We first met Bryce when we moved into our house about four years ago. He was a nut! He had his hair kind of long but you couldn't tell to much cause it was kind of curly, and some facial hair. He was about 17 and giving his mom and dad some fits. He came to church but you had the feeling that he was there out of respect for his parents, but still looking for his own testimony. Kevin and Bryce hit it off from the beginning. They put Kevin in the Young Mens and I think he saw some of himself in Bryce. At his parents request Kevin began to help Bryce complete the last few requirements for his Eagle before he reached 18. We spent some enjoyable times with Bryce here in our home as Kevin tweeked a few things and got Bryce through all that was required to get his Eagle. We went to the court of honor for him feeling as proud as a parent could be. Within the next few days he showed up at our door and gave Kevin the mentor pin that is now part of the Eagle award kit and given to those who have mentored and helped the Scout along his trail to Eagle Scout. During the next couple of years we saw a great change in Bryce, hair was cut, face was shaved and he began to prepare for a mission. Kevin and I were among a very few honored to attend his setting apart as a missionary. He served a honorable mission and returned this past October. Today he is gone and we are heart broken. He was a carefree spirit, dry wit and a little mischievous, but he loved the Lord and was proud of himself and his mission. Recently he stood in front of our ward with a few other returned missionaries and sang Armies of Helaman. I remember watching him thinking how far he had come and how proud I was to know him. His family is amazing and just recently sent their baby into the MTC as well. We will miss him and we are so sad for his loss, but have no doubt in our minds where he is and that he is continuing his mission that he loved so much and took a short break from long enough to spend time with his brother these past couple of months. We love you and miss you Bryce.