A forever ago memory but this picture is from one of Griffin’s sleep over birthday parties! We all hung out and ate way too much junk food and definitely got way too rowdy. I look back at this picture every once in a while just reminisce on some good memories from my childhood. Miss ya Griff

To my dearest cousin, I miss you more than words can describe, but I find peace in knowing that I have the gift of having the most beautiful and kind hearted soul up in heaven watching over me. The best guardian angel I could ask for. I think back to being younger and growing up with you, all the good times and mayhem that we caused. I wish you were by my side to keep those memories going, but I remember climbing a mountain in Colorado, and I had to stop for a break because I just cried missing you and wishing you could experience what I had, and shortly after, a beautiful butterfly kept following me the rest of the way up the mountain, and I knew you were right there experiencing it with me. Those tears of sadness turned into tears of happiness, and I just laughed and cried in relief as I felt like that was the one sign I needed from you to know everything was going to be ok. You're always there with us. As I write this and tears fill my eyes, I just try and remember the amazing impact you've had on people and how many lives you touched. There's not a day that goes by where I don't think about you, and that's also why I cherish this photo of us. The sincerity in your smile, and the happiness to see you even though I never thought that may be one of the last times. Griffin, I love you so much. I can only imagine the fun you're having up in heaven with Grandma Betty, Uncle Ed, and Bentley. Hold it down for us until we see you again bud. It's not goodbye forever, it's just a see you soon. I love you so much Griffin Wayne.

Griffin was always like a big brother to me. He always had my back and loved me and my family unconditionally. He showed up when we needed him, made us laugh, and was there through thick and thin. Even though he’s gone, the memories and love he gave will stay with us forever. You’ll never be forgotten, I love you forever Griffin. Rest easy.

Griffin- I loved your smile, hugs and laugh. I loved how hard you loved your people even in your hardest times. I’m so proud you decided to be a donor so you could live on in others. I loved being your Aunt. Till we meet again sweet angel.

My son, my hero. Griffin I have loved you from the second I knew I was pregnant with you and I will love you until my last breath and beyond. Since you were a small child you had a huge heart and put others first. You always had me laughing and appreciating everything you did. You always told me I was your best friend and you were mine. As you became an adult and fell into addiction you always made sure I was your first phone call. You fought the good fight and you tried. Your selflessness will never go unnoticed. You saved 5 lives! You loved hard and you were loved hard also. My world will never be the same again. I know you will be waiting with open arms for me . I love you and will miss you more than life my baby. Rest easy my love. I love you always and forever, Mom

I will miss you every single day. I have loved you every single day of your life, and will continue to love you for the rest of mine. I will make sure your memory lives on for your nephews and niece. It will be so different living in a world that you are no longer in, but I find so much peace in knowing parts of you live on in the recipient’s that received your generous gift of organs. Two halves, one whole. Forever. I love you so much always bubby. Sleep well. ❤️ I’ll see you when I get there, keep me a spot.

Griffin had an eagerness to please and to find connection with those around him. I remember the first time he dropped in to a bowl on a skateboard. He was scared, but he did it anyway because he wanted to make me proud. And I was! Especially when, although he fell on his first try, he got up and tried again. I have fond memories of him bravely navigating the dark smoke trailer at the Coal City fire department as well. Despite fighting internal battles in recent years that most of us cannot fathom, he continued to get up each time he’d been knocked down, eager to try to please yet again. It is heartbreaking knowing that he ultimately lost that battle, but I am proud that his donation can stand as a final testament of his desire to give and to please others, even to the end