Heroin
Find out what causes a person to become addicted, predisposed to addiction, and more.
Memorial
Matthew Ryan Kirk
October 13, 1990 - April 3, 2009
Matthew was a bright, considerate child. As a teenager, he had so many friends and family that loved him and cared for him. He was funny and loved to make people laugh. He loved to play hockey, skate board, ride on his ATV and hang out with his friends. His sisters, brother, nieces and nephews adored him. He was unaware of how many people loved him for just being Matt. His family and friends miss him every minute of the day, miss his bright smile and beautiful spirit.
Billy Roberts
Billy was only 19 years old when heroin claimed his life. Like so many other teens, Billy was lured into recreational drug use by friends. Looking back to when Billy started high school, it is very clear he was unprepared to deal with the temptation posed by recreational drug use. Once introduced to drugs, Billy’s life course was altered; and despite unwavering love and support from his family, Billy was lost to us all September 20, 2009. In his memory, Billy’s family has continued their fight to save other young people from the same tragic mistake. Shortly after losing Billy, his family co-founded the Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization (HERO). HERO was founded in 2010 to help families struggling to save the life of a loved one. Donations and support from across the nation have allowed HERO to fight the heroin epidemic on several fronts. HERO offers Grief Support and Family Support services; promotes and participates in drug education and drug prevention programs; provides steadfast support for improvements in drug treatment; and staunchly advocates new drug policies. Although Billy was lost, he will live on through the work being done by HERO. In memory of Billy and all who have been lost to substance abuse … please join the fight – Be a HERO and save a life!
Christopher James Czarnik
Our Loving Son and Brother Chris passed away on April 22nd, 2015. Losing his long battle with his Demons and his Heroin Addiction. No Son was more Loved by his Parents, Sister, Family and Friends then Chris. And in turn Chris Loved us all. Christopher did not start out his life with a plan to be a drug user but his fight against Depression and Anxiety disorders turned the odds against him. His road to end his addiction was not helped by the misguided and inadequate treatment options offered to him and other Heroin users. May the passing of our Loving Son help begin the process of adequate and compassionate treatment options for Heroin users and the families that Love them. End the stigma of Heroin addiction and don’t be afraid to speak out for your children. We Love you and will never forget you Christopher, forever our Loving Son and Brother.
Katie Elizabeth Sitzes
Katie Elizabeth Sitzes, age 25, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday June 4, 2016. Katie was born Feb 22, 1991 and was the light to everyone in her family. Katie grew up to be an inspired writer but even more she was an inspirational person. She battled many demons for so very long, she was truly a warrior. Her struggle with heroin, eating disorder and metal illness was a long fight. She became the support to everyone she met and often helped others that shared her struggle to live another day. In the end she saved so many lives. Her spirit, soul, and love will always radiate through the hearts and eyes of everyone she met. She never saw herself clearly, now she will shine brightly. I will always love you K.K - Your sister Natalie
Daryn Michelle Homa
January 19,1986 - July 3, 2016
Beautiful Child, Rest In Paradise Your Family and Friends will miss your infectious smile and your wonderful Soul Your life was a blessing Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure
Blake Edward Nicol
April 16, 2017
Blake Edward Nicol of Washington DC passed on Sunday, April 9, 2017. Beloved son of Frank Edward Nicol, Mary Rose Ann Nicol and step-son of Miladys Nicol Martinez; loving brother of Danielle Nicol, Ronald Nicol, Donna Nicol, Jessica Espinal, Daniel Espinal, Jybel Espinal. Blake was born on March 21, 1992 at 4:03am to Frank and Mary Rose Nicol in Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland. He was 8 pounds 3 ounces. Blake attended Saint Peters School for grades 1st-8th. He loved his school friends, his pet dog Murphy, going to work and fishing with his Dad. He also loved going to cabin, four-wheeling, and dirt biking. Blake attended Sherwood High School. He loved skateboarding with his friends often. He was instrumental in helping his father with work, by stocking materials on various construction projects and assisting the employees of Nicol Construction. Blake was a joy to be around, and was a special person in our family. He was a wonderful older brother to his younger brothers and sisters. He was the most kind hearted and loving person to all that knew him. He will be so extremely missed, and will be forever with us in our hearts.
Angela Amy Payne
1/27/1992 to 7/4/2017
Michael Anthony Wrobel
August 27, 2017
Mike was born on February 9, 1983. He passed away suddenly on August 27, 2017. Mike had such an infectious smile and his eyes would twinkle simultaneously. He loved to have fun no matter what he was doing and made life around him very enjoyable. He loved to play board games, watch comedies, sing songs on top of his lungs, lottery tickets, dogs, liked to watch all types of sports, and loved the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mike was very hardworking at his job and he was a very loyal friend. He left behind two young sons, family and friends who loved him a bunch. Rest in peace, Michael. We love you.
Sean H Schroeder
February 22, 1997 - July 16, 2017
Sean was a tender-hearted loving young man who would never deliberately hurt anyone. His heart was so kind. He loved active sports - soccer, wrestling, rugby and played hard. His favorite thing since he conquered the baby gate before a year old was climbing - trees, bridges, poles, rocks - you name it and it was a challenge he could not resist. Rock walls were great fun for Sean and he loved getting to the top. He was also good at hiding his pain and addiction and so many who loved him are still wondering how we missed all the signs.
Mary Underwood
Juliy 14 1994- August 23 2017
Mary is in now in Heaven. She is finally free of all the fears of her world.
Erin Marie Nemmers
11/13/17
April 14, 1988 - November 4, 2017 Erin is at peace with her heavenly father.
Anton Joseph Lemieux
March 10 2017
Anton was so much more than his addiction. He worked incredibly hard for everything he had, and for everyone in his life. He valued, and was valued. In March of 2017, his father found his body in his bedroom at the age of 24, poisoned by fentanyl. He had battled his addiction for a couple years, quietly, only his loving partner, Katrina, knowing most of the situation. His family is thankful to Katrina for trying her hardest to keep him safe, and for loving him and fighting for him so fiercely. Anton was a hero, he was an artist, he was a student, he was a model employee, he was a brother, son, nephew, child, friend, partner. He was so many things. But above all, he was incredibly loved. And still, to this day, he will continue to be loved, and remembered. Fondly, fiercely, emotionally, he will remain in our lives until we join him, wherever he is. "raining is a closed place, with trees like blankets resting in a closed place with sheets like sleeping bags. the breath is lost and found automatic caverns of buried down warmth shivering the morning crows raining is a closed place with trees like blankets" - Anton Joseph Lemieux
Anthony N. Conti
Dec.13,1984-Sept.4,2005
Gentle Soul...Kind Heart. Anthony was never able to find his place in this world in spite of great friends and a loving family.Maybe in our next life we will better understand his pain.
Christie Herring
January 19, 2018
Christie battled addiction from her 20s until she died of a heroin overdose at age 41. She was an inpatient three different times in North Carolina rehabilitation centers. Intelligent and well educated her last two and a half years were spent reveling in a life long dream of being a mother. She hid her relapse from family and friends and she died alone except her two year old son was by her side when she overdosed. She would hate herself to know that he stayed alone by her body until she was discovered the next day. She had a loving father and mother and stepfather and three brothers and three nieces and nephews all left to grieve and figure out how to go on. She loved life and had a beautiful smile.
Bryce bentley
3/7/18
VANESSA MARIE GRANDE
January 10, 2018
Vanessa, age 26, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday January 10, 2018. Vanessa was born July 12, 1991 and was the Light and Happiness to everyone in her family. She grew up with inspirations to make the world a better place and help everyone and anyone smile and laugh and feel better. She became the support to everyone she met and she truly helped and made a difference to less fortunate people, she often gave the coat off her back or her last dollar to anyone who needed it. How often we wished she would just be a little more selfish and care for herself more than others, but that wasn’t who she was. Vanessa was a straight ‘A’ Student, Daughter and Sister. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s of Science degree and immediately after graduation she met someone who she cared for very much and introduced her to Heroin and after that she could not escape its devastating grip for the next few years. She fought and tried with all her soul and determination but ultimately lost the battle after an overdose of fetanyl which she thought was heroin. We will always Love and cherish you, and will carry you forward to make your dreams and wishes realized. You are missed so much – Dad, Mom and Mike.
Harley James Dickson
August 18, 1990 - March 17, 2018
Harley is 27 years old, and there are years he brought nothing but joy to everyone he came in contact with. He is filled with a wonderful spirit and such love for life that it is contagious, and rubs off on everyone who knows him. He spends his time really living his life, and not letting a second go to waste. Living fearlessly has brought him much adventure, and he has experienced many things most don't have the courage to dream. His love for God shaped the beautiful man that he grew to be. His faith was followed only by his love for his family which is filled with many beautiful memories and times shared. Harley is the type of person who would give the shirt off his back, or be the voice of the voiceless. Standing up for what he felt is right, even if it meant he stood alone. With him being able to bring light to every situation, or make you laugh in your darkest times, he would not want anyone to be sad. Even if we feel the world is at a loss, or we are left with a void. Harley will be mourned by many, but remembered by all. So, let us rejoice at the time we got with him, and praise God for bringing him home. Even though your body may not be with us, your spirit is, and you will never leave our hearts. We wait for the day when we will be called home with you, knowing you are waiting there smiling with open arms. Until that day, we will take it one day at a time knowing you are looking down and smiling. We love and miss you so much, but we will hold on to times shared. Knowing this life is only temporary, and you are loved and at peace in the hands of your Father. We live now for you, and in your memory rest with God beloved son, brother, husband and friend.
Mariah Mylott
6-March-2018
Mariah, age 25, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday March 6, 2018. Mariah was born October 8, 1992 Her gentle loving soul, kind compassionate and caring ways brought so much joy to our family. Mariah had touched so many family and friends in some small way throughout her short, yet very memorable life. Mariah's life would seem too short to many, but those who were loved by her and touched by her, understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Although she was taken from us far too soon, she reminded us of the preciousness of life. She had a unique fire and passion inside her for the small things in life and enjoyed family gatherings and activities that brought people together. Mariah was introduced to Heroin at an early age by people whom she thought were her friends. Mariah struggled for years to get off Heroin and went to several rehabilitation clinics and services which would work for awhile but eventually it would be re-intoduced to her life and the cycle would start over again. As hard as she fought, she lost that battle on the 6th of March 2018. I love you so much my sweet baby and you are so painfully missed. Love you forever - Dad, Brooke, Dezmond and Mikayla.
Sally Adelle May
May 29, 1987 - March 1, 2018
Cherished daughter, sister, aunt & friend. One of six children, Sally had a childhood full of adventure, gymnastics, bike rides, tree and snow forts, and beach trips. Into adulthood, she worked long hours to consistently accomplish more than what was asked of her. Her internal beauty radiated to the rest of the world through her smile and sense of humor and sarcasm. Countless people could not help but fall almost instantly in love with her. Whether you knew her for 30 years or 30 seconds, she made a lasting impression on everyone. She so much loved the beach, sun and great seafood. In gathering her photos, a recurring theme quickly emerged: she was always right by the side of her loved ones showing patient support. An adored aunt, Sally was magnificent with children in part because of her silly, carefree demeanor. Despite her struggles, Sally's moral compass remained unbroken-a pure, honest soul. She will be missed by so many and the world is a little less bright without her. "And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing"
Richard Staples
February 22, 1962 - November 2, 2017
Richard had started taking drugs when he was a teenager. He could be a very funny, unique and nice man, but underneath there was sadness, loneliness and fears that it seemed he killed with being high. In the end, being high seemed to be his life and love above anything else. He was getting Fentonal off the streets and that mixed with other things finally did him in.
Anthony R. Lange
11-5-1984 - 9-2-2017
If tears could build a stairway...I'd walk right to heaven and bring you home. Love, Mom
Christopher Lee Kocourek
November 18, 1992 - January 10, 2017
Christopher Lee Kocourek passed away suddenly at 24 years old on January 10th 2017. Christopher was a loving son, brother, uncle, cousin, and grandson. Christopher was an avid Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Cubs fan. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing hockey. He will be remembered for his caring heart, and always being there to help others. Christopher had contagious laugh and smile that could light up a room. Unfortunately Christopher lost his light to addiction when he was a sophomore in high school. He never gave up on his journey through addiction, but ultimately heroin won that battle. Christopher is missed every single day, he left a heart broken family behind. Until we meet again 1.10.17
Eric Carlson
July 25, 1980 - January 30, 2017
On January 30, 2017, Eric Carlson passed away from an overdose. He had been using heroin for a couple months before it fatally took his life. The heroin he snorted was 60% fetanyl. He was only 36. Eric was loved, adored, cherished and admired by many people. There isn't a single person who met him that wasn't blown away by his infectious personality, humor and free spirit. He left behind many loved ones. His mother and father, brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, a girlfriend of ten years, his 14 month old daughter and his son whom was born two weeks after his death. Since Eric has been gone there is now an emptiness in all of our lives. The biggest absence will be the fact that his children will never know their father.
Jake Tabor
August 30, 1989 - December 17, 2016
RICHARD DOZIER
October 8, 2017
Rick (Richard) Dozier October 8, 2017 Rick was addicted to heroin by age 14. He was a handsome, outgoing, fun-loving, budding athlete from a loving family. Rick fought a lifelong battle with heroin and alcohol addiction. He was a son, a good brother, a father, a grandfather, a beloved uncle and a friend. He would be so pleased if his story helps others.
Trent A. Bartolomucci
December 17, 1992 - October 9, 2014
Trent was 21 years old when he left us and went home to be with the Lord. He was a loyal, loving, funny, creative young man who enjoyed learning. He was an accounting major at the University of Missouri in his junior year. Trent was taken away from this like and us much too soon.
Christopher DeCesare
March 7, 1987 - August 23, 2017
Our son Christopher was a fun loving individual who enjoyed life to the fullest and had his whole life ahead of him. Christopher was always willing to help others before he would help himself. He was not only our son but a brother, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin. But unfortunately and unnecessarily lost his battle with this disease August 23, 2017. He’s forever be missed by family and many friends.
ANTHONY S. HANRAHAN
JANUARY 9, 1984 - MAY 20, 2018
Anthony died at the young age of 34 from heroin use. Anthony was born in Edison, NJ and when he was two years old, moved to North Brunswick, NJ where he remained a life long resident. Anthony was a 2002 graduate of North Brunswick Township High School and was very much into computers and video games. He enjoyed playing paintball and was an avid collector of various collectible memorabilia. He loved to read and watch action movies, especially those that pertained to comic book characters. His favorite comic book character was Batman. Anthony will be missed by his family and friends. May he rest in peace with all our love.
Jessica Maria Boushie
5/6/1980-4/11/2018
Jessica (37) was the only daughter of Steven and Jackie and the oldest of 6 . Her 5 brothers love and miss her as does everyone who knew her. Jessica died of an accidental overdose that was largely Fentanyl. Jessica suffered from Bi-polar disease and drug addiction, having started using Heroin during the last year or two. She had many suicide attempts and rehab stays during her lifetime but we thought things were going better, she was in counseling and going to meetings and we felt we had our daughter/skister back. We’ll never understand what happened... her father and I found her. It’s something we’ll never get over. If her death stops one person from using... it would be something. Addiction is horrible and changes everyone in your family. Jessica will never know how many lives she touched or how much she was loved...she always felt like she was alone and unloveable, Her many demons made her feel that way. Our hope is that the Hero Foundation educates and helps those who need it so we can stop losing these young people💔 Our daughter was vibrant and beautiful , with a kind heart who loved children. That’s how we’ll remember her💜
John Paul Oles
May 4, 1983 - August 4, 2012
John is deeply missed by his mom and dad, his sisters and brother, his nephews, Goddaughter and friends. John‘s opiate addiction began like so many others, from a prescription drug given to him by his doctors after knee surgery. None of us knew what opiates could do to a young person’s brain chemistry. None of us knew opiates would end up being stronger than he was and eventually take his life. Once John realized he was addicted and unable to stop when he wanted to, he asked us for help. He had a loving family support system and all of us worked together with him to try to beat this disease; if only that would have been enough to keep him here with us. John was only 29. He had his whole life ahead of him.
Brent Allen Messner
July 19, 1982 - April 19, 2018
Brent Allen Messner, age 35, passed away on Thursday, April 19, 2018 due to an overdose of fentanyl-laced heroine. He was born at the General Hospital of Virginia Beach, Virginia on July 19, 1982. Brent was the son of Rodney A. Messner and Sherri L. (Klinger, Messner) Hebda and stepson of John F. Hebda and Claudia S. Messner. Brent graduated from Bellwood Antis High School, earned an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts, and a certificate in outstanding achievement from the Academy of Medical Arts and Business. He was a website owner and developer, previously worked for the US Army Medical Command in Carlisle, PA and the US Army Corps of Engineers in Pittsburgh, PA. Brent leaves behind his son, Cameron A. Messner (6 years of age); maternal grandparents, James and Penny Klinger; great grandmother, Elva (Harner) Klinger and paternal step-grandmother, Harriet Messner. He was preceded in death by his brother, Brandon J. Messner; maternal great grandparents Haven & Ruth (Yoder) Laudenslager and Leon Klinger; and paternal grandparents, Robert A. & Sandra (Willow) Messner and step-grandparents John J. & Betty A. (Sierer) Hebda. The family will receive family and friends, Saturday, May 12, 2018, 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Hoover-Boyer Funeral Home, 118 South Market Street, Millersburg, PA 17061. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11:00 am with lunch following at "The Wooden Nickel" banquet room. In lieu of flowers, please donate in the name of Brent A. Messner to HERO (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) via their webpage at www.theherofoundation.org or by check or money order payable to the Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization, PO Box 2536, Orland Park, IL 60642-109. Brent was a sharp young man that had an intuitive and considerate spirit, which made him a great listener and champion for those in need. To send condolences go to www.hbfuneralhomes.com. www.pennlive.com/obits
George F. Lamboley III
June 11, 1989 - July 21, 2018
George was a graduate of Seneca High School. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in journalism from SIU in Carbondale, Il. and worked as the editor of the Cairo Citizen Newspaper. He was currently employed by Costco Meat Packing in Morris. George enjoyed photography and music.I miss the whistle
I miss the whistle though I got to dread it well.
I miss the whistle even though it meant a drunken hell.
I taught to whistle when you were young.
And we whistled all the time just in fun.
Over time the whistle went away,
While in High School and then to Collage the whistle was gone.
Here recently though before you went away,
The whistle took on an ominous sound.
You would start to drink and then whistle for the dogs.
I knew what it meant and began to dread the sound.
I knew you had a pint and your sobriety was gone.
It infuriated me to no end.
For I knew where the day was going, and it would be long.
Now that you are gone and never to return.
I miss the whistle, because at least I knew.
You were home and not about.
Maybe you would stop and just play with the hound.
But I miss the whistle and find myself listening for that sound.
I miss the whistle.
John Brendan Maloney
February 26, 1988 - July 11, 2018
When John lost his battle to addiction, at 30 years old, he left behind his parents, 1 brother, 5 sisters, and 9 nieces and nephews who adored and loved him tremendously. John has been considered “a people person” his whole life; as a toddler he would walk into a room and make friends with anyone, including all the adults. His love for people shined through in all of his relationships, as he was nurturing, kind, funny, and genuine. During his quest to reach sobriety, he became an active member of the recovery community. Many people have expressed their gratitude for his friendship and described him as an influential support in their own journey. He found his strengths in running, playing guitar, writing music, and singing. He was happiest when he was with his family and will be incredibly missed, but never forgotten.
Jean (Max) DeLeon
February 6, 1993 - October 3, 2018
Jean-François Maximillian “Max” DeLeon, a life-long resident of Orland Hills, IL, died unexpectedly on October 3, 2018. The interesting thing about Max is that if you judged a book by its dread-locked cover, you would never expect who he was as a person inside. People who closely knew Max would remember his love for conspiracy theories and anime. He loved all music (except country) and hated the occasional slow jam in the car. He defied societal norms and didn’t play by the typical rules. He was his own person. Max was hilarious, finding the humor in any situation. He was subtle, low-key funny. He was a walking contradiction. While he read the bible and knew the constitution front to back, his favorite movie was The Pest (rotten tomato score of 8%). He had an overwhelming love of beer and bacon, often together…and his favorite days were rainy. Most importantly, when it counted, Max showed up. Every time. His empathy was his biggest strength and he wanted to understand people, for the simple reason that he cared. Max also suffered from addiction, a disease he struggled with for many years. While he was unable to overcome that battle, he was kind, loving, intensely smart and so very loved. He is survived by his mother, Marie; sister Alex; and half-brothers Adrian and Demitri. Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to attend the celebration of Max’s life on October 13, 2018 from 12pm-3pm at Tom Kelly’s Chop House & Pub (495 Degroate Rd, New Lenox, IL). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to The Hero Foundation (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) in Max’s name. Your monetary gift will enable HERO to do the work they’ve been called to do: fighting for families and fighting against heroin use.
Lucas Chase Randall (Luke)
July 2, 1995 - September 23, 2018
Lucas Chase Randall (Luke) of Wentzville Missouri was born July 2, 1995 and passed early Sunday morning September 23, 2018 at the age of 23 in his family home. Cherished son of Lisa (Gerry Gruska) and Brian (Tammy) Randall. Loving brother of Lucy Beth Randall and step brother Austin Lee Sherman. First born grandchild to Sandy Ives. Luke was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Leo K. Ives and paternal grandparents Robert and Frances Randall. Luke recently received his welding certification and was in pursuit of a career in this field. With Aunts, Uncles, cousins still mourning the loss of such an irreplaceable member of their family, they find comfort in the precious memories they have over his last 23 years. Luke had a gift of making those around him smile and laugh at all times. He would want his family and friends to continue to smile and laugh even now in his absence. Memorial contributions may be made in Luke’s honor to HERO (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization)
CHEERS TO SOBRIETY
Say hello to the trying me
RIP to the dying me
These days seem like months to me
As I climb the ladder of sobriety
The cravings they are driving me
My thoughts seem alive to me
Memories survive inside of me
While words of wisdom inspire me
A new me I will strive to be
While wicked desires live inside of me
But with the Lord on the side of me
The devil I'll push outside of me
There's no better time to be
What I've always liked to be
There's nothing in the world I wouldn't give
To have joy and peace inside of me
Cheers to Sobriety
Written by Luke Randall (23)
Say hello to the trying me
RIP to the dying me
These days seem like months to me
As I climb the ladder of sobriety
The cravings they are driving me
My thoughts seem alive to me
Memories survive inside of me
While words of wisdom inspire me
A new me I will strive to be
While wicked desires live inside of me
But with the Lord on the side of me
The devil I'll push outside of me
There's no better time to be
What I've always liked to be
There's nothing in the world I wouldn't give
To have joy and peace inside of me
Cheers to Sobriety
Written by Luke Randall (23)
James R. Amato Jr.
January 10, 1986 - October 3, 2010
Jim’s mom Tami: “Jimmy had such a big heart. He would have given the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. His brother Joe and sisters Danielle, Jennifer and Taylor loved spending time with him. His laugh was contagious. He had so many friends and he loved them all. I miss our long talks and his visits to see me. We were very close. He was a tough guy with a heart of gold. He loved baseball, fishing and cooking too. He made the best homemade meatballs and he was always so proud of his dishes. Jimmy is missed by so many.” Rest In Peace Jimmy - forever 24, always in our hearts. Love, Jenn
Joseph E. Luebke
April 20, 1990 - March 25, 2019
Joe’s mom Tami: “Joe could light up the room with his smile and he was very witty. He was a very talented artist. He could draw anything and with such precision. He was a tattoo artist and he really enjoyed it. He loved to cook. Joe also enjoyed fishing as a young boy. Joe had so many friends from all walks of life, if someone treated him with respect he would return it tenfold... After Jimmy passed, Joe took over in the big brother department and always checked on his sisters Danielle and Jennifer and I to make sure we were okay. Our hearts are broken but at least we know that our boys are together again. I'm sure Jimmy was waiting for his brother with open arms and one day we will all be together again.” Rest In Peace Joey - forever 28, always in our hearts. A memorial contribution will be made in honor of Joseph to HERO. Love, Jenn
Edward "Eddie" C Strysik
Edward "Eddie" C Strysik
8/31/92 - 03-07-19
Tragic .. I'm at a loss This epidemic took the love of my life unexpectedly and left me and his family and friends shattered. He was such an amazing man ❤️ A heart of Gold and a man of God. "Always remember us this way " Love you and we're gonna try to make a difference - in loving memory of you. - your ride or die me xoxoxo I miss you
Daniel (Danny) Seasock
1985 - 2018
In Memory of Daniel “Danny” Seasock: 1985-2018. A loving Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend. A fun loving, young life that was cut way too short, due to the Heroin epidemic.
Joey Conte
4-1-85 to 9-20-17
Joey passed away on September 20, 2017. Joey was a loving, big-hearted man who loved the Lord. He always knew how to make people laugh and brighten up a room. He loved playing basketball and pretending he was stone cold Steve Austin! His contagious laugh and sense of humor is missed. Joey will always be in many hearts of his family and friends.
Brandon Thomas Peyton Gilbert
02/12/1991 - 10/25/2018
Brandon had struggled for about half his life with mental health issues and self acceptance and thinking he was good enough among other things. He eventually found his way into the life of drugs and the consequences it would bring upon himself and his loved ones. Though he fought really hard to win the fight sadly he ended up spending the last year of his life in the hospital due to his using. At the age of 27 years old my brother, Brandon passed away and joined all the other rockstars part of the 27 club up there in the sky. He always said he wanted to be part of the 27 club ha! But mostly he wanted to make right and live a life where he no longer had to choose between herion or himself. He hopes others with the same problem will recognize their self worth and accept the help at hand. We love and miss your smarty mouth! He who loved cats and graffiti art and was so intelligent and always thinking of others what a life lost and truly will never be forgotten. - Jenna (sister)
Rosino Bruno Cinciripini
December 2016
Rosino succumbed to his battle after a long fight and will be missed by many
Zackary L Neil
July 22, 2019
Zack was born February 24, 1990 the son of Dawn R Neil-Sweetie and Rodney Abbott. He was a union laborer for Local 373. He enjoyed fishing, music and spending time with his family. He had 8 siblings, Catrina and Sarah and Nicholas Abbott, Aliza and Andrea Donaldson and Mason and Abby and Michael Jr. Sweetie. He was a young man full of life, who's life was taken too soon. He will be missed by his family and friends!
Sara Murray Reilly
May5,1977-April 14,2015
Our daughter, Sara, was addicted to prescription meds. She left behind 3 beautiful boys, and a family who love her and is devastated.
Raymond Bauer
7/22/19
My son, Ray passed on 7/22/19 from an accidental fentanyl overdose. He was 38, active in his recovery - attending meeting, had a great support system, chaired meetings and went back to his last rehab to speak to the patients about his journey. He was 2 weeks shy of meeting his 1 year sober anniversary. He loved music, mostly rap. He loved all of the Philadelphia sports and was able to meet some of the players while he worked at Wells Fargo. He had a wonderful sense of humor. This past year was a gift, seeing him the best he had been in many years. We shared many tears, laughter and deep conversations. I'm glad at least, I had this past year though he should still be here.
John Richard Page
March 25, 1982 - January 29, 2016
I used to have a brother, his name was John Richard Page. He was 2.5 years younger than me. John was of a medium build with a birth mark on his lower back. He had dirty blond hair, bright blue eyes and perfect teeth. He had two tattoos and stood 5 ft 10 inches tall, had very short hair and when his beard would start to grow in, it had a tint of red. This is exactly what I told the funeral home via email n order to satisfy the funeral home to proceed with the cremation of my brother. Our Mom couldn't see her son dead...and wouldn't allow me to either. What is left of my only sibling would later be mailed to our Mom's house, wrapped in brown paper. This is how it would stay, sitting on top of the worn out, brown papered, box a collection of car and driver magazines would pile up. My life changed on January 29th. Things wil never be how they once were. I miss my brother and do my best to process my grief by memorializing him. My oldest son has chose to "pretend" it didn't happen, much like his Grammy. Their is no right or wrong way to grieve I have been told. Nothing we say or do can change what happened. I miss my brother, he was my worst enemy and my best friend at the very same time. He was an amazing artist, carpenter, mechanic, uncle, friend, son and brother and he died from a heroin overdose four almost four years ago. There is not a a day that goes by that I don't think of him, see a part of him in one of my boys, stumble across something that triggers a memory. For 33 years I had a brother and now I will forever have 33 years of memories of my dead brother.
Mike Bender
June 5, 1962 - February 7, 2016
In 2016, my father, Michael Bender, unexpectedly passed away from a heroin overdose. Around the time I was born, in 1996, he was working for Sara Lee and was standing on the lift of a delivery truck when it broke and he fell. He had countless back surgeries for herniated disks. After the many surgeries, he became addicted to hydrocodone, which was given to him for the pain. After so long, the pain became too much and too expensive so he turned to heroin. He dealt with many failed hip replacements, chronic back pain, restless leg syndrome, migraines, depression, drug addiction, and alcoholism. His memory will forever live on through me and he will forever be in my heart. He was a loving father, son, and brother and is missed more and more each and every day.
ERIK KRISTOPHER GONZALES
SEP 23, 1998 - JUN 12, 2020
Erik my only child was an old soul and he was kind, had a beautiful spirit, was smart, handsome, talented and very creative. He could talk to anyone, he was engaging and could be very charming. Kids loved him and he was always kind to those less fortunate than he was. He loved animals and considered himself a “Crazy Cat Person” but really had dogs all his life!?! He was a very creative writer and turned many of his writings into versions of rap songs. Baseball was his thing and he could give you every stat from the early beginnings of baseball to current players. But he really was an avid sports fan in general. Boy was he a Tom Brady fan but we won't hold that against him, hahaha. He played Little League Baseball, Pop Warner Football, All Stars and Travel Ball until High School and then he played Freshman and Junior Baseball and Football. He did MMA and bodybuilding for a bit of time too. Not only did he participate in sports but he went to hundreds of MLB games, countless NFL games, Strikeforce, Bellator, Glory, UFC, WCK events. Supercross, Monster Truck and Nitro Circus events. San Diego Comic Con, college Bowl games! He traveled to Canada, New York, Florida, Colorado, Philadelphia, Hawaii, Arizona, Las Vegas. He has also held down a job since he was 16 at a few different spots and we were very proud of his work ethic. Went in on his days off and worked anytime time they needed him. He had a great life, great friends, nice girlfriends and family that loved him no matter what! Sadly the start of his demise was an injury in H.S. and he was prescribed Oxycodone. It took a few years before it was visibly noticeable that there was an issue but now being 19 we could not force him into rehab or get him to admit he had a problem. At that point he started to slowly progress to heroin and cocaine and finally adding fentanyl into the mix. Things were looking up and we got him to go into rehab but at day 86 on June 5th 2020 he left and 1 week later on June 12th 2020 he died from an overdose. WHAT I MISS MOST ABOUT MY SON IS EVERYTHING!!!
Kelly Glasgow
March 26, 2018
Donna Palladino
11/15/2020
Debbie 07/23/1965 - 10/06/2005 My older Sister and my best friend lost her battle to addiction.
James David Ghostley
April 7 1988-October 15, 2018
James was a lover of life, with the kind of laugh that couldn't help but make you giggle alongside him. He was a dedicated father and partner, a loving son, a steadfast brother and a loyal friend. He lives on in his young daughter, Zoë, who resembles him more and more every day. James struggled with addiction- a battle he fought bravely for over 10 years. He had dreams, hopes, and visions for his future that included a ranch-style recovery home for young men and women struggling with their own battles with addiction. After a period of time clean, James relapsed unexpectedly and passed away. His surviving partner seeks to honor his memory by accepting donation for The Hero Foundation on behalf of her small business, providing trauma healing to people from all walks of life. James, you are so loved. We miss you.
Matthew Scott Fahnestock
5/16/85-5/8/21
Matthew was a caring, loyal, and loving man. He turned to drugs when he had to go down to the scene of the accident and identify his little sisters body because she was hit by a car. Matt blamed himself for years and used drugs to self medicate. He was in and out of rehab for over 10 years. He tried so hard to overcome his demons and beat this disease but unfortunately it took it his life. Matthew was a son, brother, father, uncle, cousin, and friend to so many people. He was so loved by everyone he met. He had an amazing bond with two of his cousins, Theresa and Maddie. Matt and Theresa were not just family they were best friends. Matthew will be truly missed by so many people.
