Category: Uncategorized

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we share the untimely passing of Luke Skotzke, 20, of Chardon, Ohio, who tragically lost his life on Thursday, July 17, 2025, following a suspected drowning at Lake Taylor in Pilgrim Village.

At approximately 9:03 p.m., emergency services were dispatched after reports of a possible drowning. The Bainbridge Township Police and Fire Departments responded swiftly and located Luke in the water. Despite the best efforts of first responders, who began life-saving measures immediately, Luke was later pronounced deceased at University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center.

Authorities are currently treating the incident as an accidental drowning. No signs of foul play have been found, and the circumstances remain under investigation. At this time, further details surrounding the event have not yet been released.

Luke’s sudden passing has left his family, friends, and the broader Chardon community in mourning. Known for his kind spirit and warm heart, Luke was a beloved son, friend, and neighbor whose presence touched many. Whether he was enjoying the outdoors, spending time with friends, or simply bringing light to those around him, Luke lived with a quiet joy that left a lasting impact.

The Bainbridge Township Police Department issued a statement following the tragedy, saying, “The Bainbridge Police Department and Bainbridge Fire Department extend their sincere condolences to the family.” Their heartfelt support echoes the grief felt by all who knew and loved Luke.

Lake Taylor, a well-known and peaceful location within Pilgrim Village, has long been a cherished place for local families. This heartbreaking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can occur around water, even in places that feel safe and familiar.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, and Luke’s loved ones are respectfully asking for privacy as they navigate this devastating loss. In the days to come, his family and friends will share more details about services and opportunities for the community to honor and remember Luke.

As the investigation continues, the community grieves together in unity and remembrance. Luke’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him—through stories, shared laughter, and the love he gave so freely in his short but meaningful life.

Rest peacefully, Luke. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

With profound sadness, we share the tragic passing of Truston Alexander, a beloved 16-year-old from Butler County, Missouri, who lost his life following a tubing accident on the evening of July 15, 2025.

The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on a private pond near County Road 465. Truston was enjoying a summer evening being pulled on a tube by a boat when a sudden accident changed everything. Thrown from the tube, he tragically collided with a partially submerged log. Emergency responders rushed him to a hospital in Poplar Bluff, and he was later airlifted to a hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Despite the heroic efforts of medical teams, Truston passed away from his injuries the following day, July 16.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and Butler County Coroner Jim Akers confirmed Truston’s identity and offered heartfelt condolences to the family, who are facing unimaginable grief. The incident remains under investigation but has been ruled an accidental death.

Truston was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew him. Known for his passion for the outdoors, he loved golfing, hunting, fishing, and trap shooting. He was deeply involved in school sports, proudly representing the Poplar Bluff Skeet and Golf teams. His energy, kindness, and enthusiasm made him a treasured friend, teammate, and son.

He had a deep love for life and was happiest when surrounded by the people he cared about. Whether he was on the course, in the woods, or by the water, Truston approached life with a joyful spirit and a fearless heart.

The Bainbridge Township Police and Fire Departments, along with countless friends and neighbors, have expressed their condolences and support to the Alexander family during this heartbreaking time. As a community, we grieve the loss of a young life taken far too soon and rally around his loved ones with love and compassion.

Truston’s legacy will live on through the memories he leaves behind, the lives he touched, and the laughter he shared. His passing is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in everything we do—especially in activities we cherish with the people we love most.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may those who mourn find comfort in knowing how deeply he was loved.

Rest easy, Truston. You will never be forgotten.

Roberta Vaughan obituary Death It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Roberta Vaughan — a beloved member of the Sierra community, a dedicated leader, and a cherished friend to so many.

On July 2nd, 2025, Roberta suffered a serious medical emergency brought on by multiple blood clots, which led to several cardiac arrest events. She remained in a coma for the past week, surrounded by love and relentless hope. But today, July 18th, after extensive evaluation and consultation, it was determined that the damage to her brain had surpassed the human ability to recover. With unimaginable grief, her loved ones made the decision to let her go.

Roberta was one of those rare people whose presence radiated warmth, strength, and a deep magic that was entirely her own. She carried herself with empathy, grace, and quiet power. She was a fierce advocate for mental health, deeply empathetic, and unflinchingly honest in both her struggles and her victories. For those who knew her, she was more than a friend—she was a light, a lifeline, and often, a guide through darkness.

To her family, friends, and the broader community she uplifted and inspired: thank you for the love and support you’ve shown Roberta, especially in these last days. Your words, prayers, and memories have been a comfort in the face of unspeakable sorrow.

To know Roberta was to know resilience. She bonded early in life with those around her through shared struggles with depression and self-worth—and together, she and those she loved found a path forward. She turned her pain into purpose and became a source of strength for so many.

To those closest to her: “She was literally Erana in real life. Magic and all. She sacrificed herself for us, and I wish she hadn’t, because there’s no River Styx I can cross to get her back.”

Roberta, we miss you deeply. We are sorry that what we did to save you wasn’t enough. But we are endlessly proud of the life you lived, the love you gave, and the legacy you leave behind.

May your soul find peace, and may your magic continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved you.

It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Madalyne Tregallas Maxwell, the beloved former Chief Operating Officer and Interim Executive Director of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO). Madalyne passed away leaving behind a legacy of exceptional service, unwavering dedication, and deep love for the organization and its mission.

Madalyne’s journey with CYSO began in an administrative capacity, but her talent, tenacity, and passion quickly propelled her into leadership. Over the years, she played a transformative role in helping CYSO grow into the dynamic and thriving organization it is today. Her contributions were not just measured by operational success, but by the countless lives she touched and the young professionals she mentored. Many of today’s CYSO leaders—and others now serving in prestigious arts organizations across the country—owe a debt of gratitude to Madalyne’s guidance and belief in their potential.

Her unwavering commitment to CYSO’s students and families was the heart of her work. Whether coordinating large-scale events or offering quiet encouragement behind the scenes, Madalyne poured her full self into everything she did. Her impact is lasting, her presence irreplaceable.

Madalyne’s legacy lives on not only in the institution she helped shape, but in her beloved children, Lily and Arthur, whom she adored beyond words. The CYSO community extends our deepest love and condolences to them and to Madalyne’s entire family.

A memorial service will be held in her honor:

Saturday, July 26, 2025

12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Williams-Kampp Funeral Home

430 E. Roosevelt Rd.

Wheaton, IL 60187

Madalyne Tregallas Maxwell will forever remain a part of CYSO’s history and its heart. May her memory be a blessing and her spirit continue to inspire us all.

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking passing of  Chris Ta’aloga Faiumu, known to the world as DJ MU or Fitchie a talismanic founding member, production maestro, selector, and brother in every sense of the word.

Chris’s unexpected departure marks a seismic shift in our world. He was more than a producer, more than a DJ—he was a cultural force, a visionary who helped shape the sound and soul of Aotearoa and far beyond. Through music, he united people, told stories, and forged identity. His creative genius was only rivaled by his humility, warmth, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

From the studios to the stages, Chris crafted rhythms and grooves that will echo for generations. He was the heartbeat behind so many moments of joy, reflection, and celebration. His influence can be heard in countless tracks, but more powerfully still, it lives in the communities he helped build and the lives he touched.

To the Faiumu and Duckworth aiga, and to MU’s vast aiga of friends and fans around the globe, we send our deepest alofa and condolences. Your grief is shared by many who mourn with you, even from afar.

“Ua maligi loimata i le maua mai o le tala ua fa i lagi lau malaga, Chris Ta’aloga Faiumu… DJ MU… Fitchie.”

Tears have flowed upon learning your journey has taken you to the heavens, Chris. These were the names by which you became known and celebrated—revered by fellow musicians across Aotearoa and the world.

The guiding star has fallen, the waves of our ocean silenced, and the crown of flowers that adorned our shared journey now lies broken since you departed, Brother.

Please, we kindly ask for privacy and respect for Chris’s family and loved ones during this deeply difficult time.

Rest in peace, DJ MU.

Your music, your mana, and your spirit will live on.

We are deeply saddened to share the tragic loss of California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, who was killed in the line of duty on July 17, 2025, in Oakland, California. His passing is a solemn and painful reminder of the daily sacrifices made by those who serve and protect our communities.

Agent Byrd was more than a dedicated public servant—he was a Navy veteran, a dependable colleague, a beloved friend, and above all, a devoted husband and father of three. He began his CDCR career at California Medical Facility (CMF), where he served with distinction before transitioning to Parole, where his impact continued to grow. Joshua’s colleagues remember him as a man of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. He cared deeply for those he worked with and those he served.

In this time of unimaginable loss, we stand in support of Agent Byrd’s wife, children, family, and the entire CDCR and law enforcement community. His death leaves a void that can never be filled, but his honor, service, and legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the people he protected.

To honor Agent Byrd’s memory and assist his family during this heartbreaking time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched. Proceeds will go toward creating a custom honor box with a certified check for his family—an enduring tribute to the love and respect he earned from all who knew him. This initiative is being organized by his friends, coworkers, and supporters across the CDCR community.

🔗 Support the Byrd Family – GoFundMe

Every contribution, no matter the size, will go a long way in helping his family navigate this devastating time. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing the campaign to help amplify the support.

We are forever grateful for Agent Byrd’s service.

Rest in peace, Brother. You will never be forgotten.

With profound sorrow and broken hearts, we share the passing of a precious baby boy, Riley Bliss Douthat, who left us far too soon on Friday, July 4, 2025. Born on December 20, 2024, to Russell and Maria Douthat, Riley was a radiant light in our lives gentle, joyful, and deeply loved from the moment he arrived.

Riley brought immense happiness and calm with his easygoing nature and ever-present smile. He loved being cuddled, playing with his crinkly toys, holding onto his binkie, and most of all, sharing endless laughter with his big sister Maisie Douthat, who adored him completely. Though his time with us was brief, Riley’s spirit made an everlasting imprint on all who knew him. He filled our days with wonder, comfort, and pure love.

Riley is survived by his loving parents, Russell and Maria, and his sister Maisie, who will forever carry his memory in her heart. He is also survived by his grandparents: Marian Lucas, Gilbert (Mari) Gonzalez, and Faye and David Douthat; and by a large and devoted extended family, including his aunts and uncles: Danielle (Brenden) Douglas, Logan (Lillian) Lucas, Luke (Amanda) Lucas, Gilbert Jr. (Mayra), Juanita (Bryam), Alex (Emily), Ricardo, Miguel, and Connie Gonzalez. Riley’s great-grandfather Rudy (Jan) Douthat and great-grandmother Consuelo Gonzalez, along with many great-aunts, great-uncles, and cousins, also mourn his passing.

Riley now joins his great-grandparents who preceded him in death, embraced in their eternal love.

A private family service has been held in Riley’s honor. A celebration of life will be organized at a later date, where all who loved Riley will be welcomed to remember his beautiful spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Riley’s memory to consider:

• Making a contribution to Maisie Douthat’s future education fund (checks may be sent directly to Russell or Maria Douthat),
• Or donating in Riley’s name to the Children’s and Women’s Bereavement Program at Michigan Medicine’s Department of Decedent Affairs.

For donation assistance or further information, please contact:

Office of Decedent Affairs

Phone: 734-232-4919 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Email: SocWk-ODA@med.umich.edu

Riley’s time with us was short, but the love he brought into this world was boundless. His memory will forever live on in our hearts and in the quiet, beautiful moments he gave us.

Rest in peace, sweet Riley. You were—and always will be—deeply loved.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Anderwald, who left this world too soon, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication. Larry was more than a successful businessman—he was a beloved husband, a proud father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man whose character inspired those around him.

For over 20 years, Larry built businesses not just with strategy and determination, but with heart. He formed lasting partnerships grounded in mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose. To know Larry was to know a man of conviction—someone whose presence commanded attention and whose loyalty never wavered.

He was a devoted and loving husband to Sandy, his partner in every sense of the word. Their bond was a testament to love, laughter, and resilience. Larry’s pride in his sons—Clay, Drew, and Spencer—was evident in every conversation. He reveled in his role as a grandfather, always eager to share stories, milestones, and joy. His family was the core of his world, and his love for them knew no bounds.

Larry’s generosity extended far beyond his home. In his final days, even from his hospital bed, he remained committed to service. On the 4th of July, Larry took it upon himself to coordinate efforts to support local first responders in Kerrville, resulting in hundreds being fed—a final act that encapsulates his lifelong spirit of giving.

He will be remembered not only for his leadership and accomplishments but for his laughter, his values, and the countless lives he touched. Larry’s legacy lives on in the businesses he built, the family he cherished, and the hearts of all who knew him.

A private memorial service will be held in celebration of Larry’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a cause close to Larry’s heart or to an organization benefiting first responders in his honor.

Rest well, Larry. Your light remains.

TOWN OF WEST TURIN, N.Y. — A devastating three-vehicle crash in Lewis County on Thursday afternoon has claimed the lives of two individuals and three family dogs, leaving a community in mourning and several others injured.

The incident occurred shortly after 4:10 p.m. on July 17, 2025, at the intersection of State Route 12D and State Route 26 in the Town of West Turin. According to New York State Police, the preliminary investigation indicates that a tractor-trailer, driven by 38-year-old Andrew Sommers of Three Mile Bay, was traveling southbound on Route 26 when it collided with a 2011 Honda Pilot heading northbound on Route 12D.

The Honda Pilot, operated by 39-year-old Natasha Spellicy of Taberg, was carrying her two children and family dogs. After the initial collision, both the tractor-trailer and the SUV continued southeast, with the Honda Pilot veering off into a ditch on the northeast side of the road. The tractor-trailer then struck a red SUV, driven by 63-year-old Eric Croniser, which was traveling northbound on Route 26. Both vehicles eventually came to rest off the road.

Tragically, Natasha Spellicy and her 16-year-old son, Tyler Spellicy, were pronounced deceased at the scene, along with their three beloved dogs. 18-year-old Kylie Spellicy, seated in the front passenger seat, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse, where she remains in stable condition.

Eric Croniser and his 46-year-old passenger, Amanda Croniser, were transported to Wynn Hospital in Utica and are reported to be in good condition.

A Drug Recognition Expert evaluation was performed on the tractor-trailer driver, Andrew Sommers, and no signs of impairment were detected. The State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit and the Collision Reconstruction Unit were also on-site, along with an extensive emergency response including Lewis County Search & Rescue, Boonville Fire/EMS, Turin Fire/EMS, Constableville Fire/EMS, NYS DEC, NYS DOT, and the Lewis County Emergency Coordinator.

The Lewis County District Attorney is involved, and the investigation remains ongoing.

This heartbreaking crash has shaken the community of Taberg and beyond, as loved ones and neighbors remember the Spellicy family with deep sorrow. Vigils and support efforts have already begun as many look for ways to help Kylie Spellicy in her recovery and honor the memory of Natasha and Tyler.

Authorities continue to urge caution at intersections and high-traffic areas, emphasizing how quickly tragedy can strike.

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Cody Drewett, who lost his life in a devastating car accident on July 17, 2025. The collision occurred unexpectedly and has left Cody’s loved ones and community reeling from the shock of such an unimaginable loss.

Cody was a light in the lives of everyone who knew him. More than a son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend—he was a force of joy and compassion. His laughter was contagious, his kindness unshakable, and his heart, always open. Whether he was sharing a moment of humor, offering encouragement, or simply lending a listening ear, Cody had a way of making others feel seen, heard, and valued.

To know Cody was to love him. His ability to connect, to bring comfort, and to uplift made him unforgettable. His sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him, especially his sister and young niece, who now face life without his warm and supportive presence.

As his family grapples with both emotional pain and the financial burden of laying Cody to rest, a call for community support has been made. Contributions, no matter the size, will go toward funeral expenses and allow his loved ones to focus on honoring his memory in a way that reflects the depth of their love for him. For those unable to give, your thoughts and prayers are equally cherished during this time of profound grief.

Cody’s life, though cut far too short, was one of meaning, impact, and love. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the hearts he touched, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Cody Drewett.

Your spirit will forever shine in our memories, and your love will never fade.