Friday, June 12, 2020
Sometimes in life a person comes along that makes an enormous impact on the lives of others, I was blessed to have known David Kaelin. To those of us who knew him he was a larger than life character that lit up a room, had a huge grin on his face always, and loved life and the people he cared for. He always looked out for others and on many occasions when we were teenagers I saw him fight for those who could not fight for themselves. He carried this into adulthood as an officer with over thirty years of selfless military service to our nation.
He encouraged others to take risks, to be more than they believed they could, and he cheered for those that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. He was a rare individual that made those around him better, inspiring and advocating for others. I was one of those people, David’s impact on my life allowed me to take more risks and reach higher than I would have otherwise thought possible and I know I am just one of many.
I remember happily the adventures we had growing up and the great times spent learning what life was all about. Those were formative years in my life during which he played a role of profound significance. Sports, clubs, scouts, classes, working, driving, dating, and preparing for the future, I remember all of it and he will live on forever in those memories.
While my heart breaks for his family and I tearfully mourn his untimely passing, I am thankful to have counted him among my friends and will cherish his legacy always. I look forward with joy to the day when we meet again in Christ and kneel together at the throne of God.
David, you were, are, and forever will be my dear friend, I love you buddy and I will keep your memory until the day when we are all united again through Christ Jesus.
With Love and Sympathy - Steve Hawkins
