To my dearest sweet son Declan. You were the light of any room you would enter. So many knew you as so many wonderful things but what stands out the most is your love for anyone around you. You were the most caring person and would have done anything for anyone. You were so fun and full of life, could make anyone laugh even on their darkest days. You had a sense of humor like no other. No matter how mad I would get at you for anything I could never stay mad. All you had to do is look at me with those beautiful blue eyes and ornery smile of yours and it was all over! Your smile and laughter would melt anyone's heart and shook our world. The lover of his dog Titan, the best little brother to Kris and one of the best sons to his parents. Half my heart and soul left with you Son but I have to believe that you are in a better place in the hands of God. Your memory my son will live on forever. Save a seat next to you for you Momma for I still have work here yet to do. But know I love you and will think of you always!

Love your Mom, Angela

Declan truly, and I mean truly, is one of the funniest, and kindest people I know. He genuinely would give his last if it meant somebody else wouldn't struggle. When feeling down, declan was the first person to try and get you to laugh & he wouldnt stop trying, until you did. I am absolutely heart broken, but I just know heaven gained one of the most beautiful souls.

A beautiful soul full of love, laughter and joy, Always lit up the room or anywhere he was present at. I’ll miss you my dawg I’m so sorry this happened to you kid. sleep in heavenly peace my brother til we meet again.

I’m Sorry and deeply pained at the loss of such a great soul. A good friend, a good hearted young man. I loved you little bro. You were one of the first people I met in Iowa. We would Always be in your mother’s basement hanging out lol. We were young and dumb at times but we matured and life was just beginning for you man. We can’t question God for what happened but my prayers and condolences go out to your family. May the Lord Jesus the Prince of peace himself comfort you guys and put peace and rest in yall hearts.

My son was everything to me and my family and was takin way to early in life. He was the light that shined through the darkest night. He always showed his love through hugs and laughs. He loved everyone. Never complained when asking for anything no matter how small. He was like my best friend. He grew up with me and considered me his best friend as well. He was just an all around great son and man to be around. It was a pleasure for me for you to call me your dad, and it was an even greater pleasure to call you my son. God bless and keep you in his arms my sweet son. We will meet again one day and it’ll seem like tomorrow when I do. A lifetime on earth is like a day in heaven. I prey that our Heavenly Father can help me through these hard times and rest my broken heart. Until we walk together in heaven, remember dad loves you and will keep you in heart until that day. Love you son forever and ever

Every interaction I had with Declan reminded me of how kind, funny and selfless he was. Every time I saw Declan in person he was with my brother Brady, but there was one memory I have of him without my brother, and this one has always stuck with me. He was working with my dad restoring an old pool table. They started working on it mid to late evening, and they stayed up all night stripping and sanding it. Around 4am, they called me, knowing I would already be up for the day, asking if they can come over for some coffee. I made them some coffee and met them out back in my shed. We sat there drinking coffee, having a couple smokes, and good conversation. It was now almost 7am, the day before my wedding, Declan had pulled an all nighter, and I was telling him all the things I needed to do that day. He without hesitation said that he would help me set up tents with the rest of my family and anything else we needed help with. Even though he probably wanted to go home and go to bed, he put others needs first. He was a genuine and kind kind soul. He will be deeply missed by all. I am so sorry for your immense loss.