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Cole Bartsch Obituary
182 Entries
Roger Borchert
December 23, 2013
For the families and children of our fallen this Christmas 2013
Colours glowing near a window pain
Shimmer gentle, seen, the sight
Lifting hearts in yuletide's glow
On Christmas Eve, tonight
Let them hear the carols
Sung on high
Sung in hearts so light
Sung with all the love that grew
Sung with all their might
As they gather close
Around their Christmas tree
Recall a life time, shared
Broke into tears, for a life once shared
With a nation
With all of us
Oh Lord our child of Canada
Lost a soldier, Oh So Dear
To a world that needed
A strong, strong heart
To stand, to say, no more
In a world gone so terribly wrong
On behalf of me and you
They stood, they gave, all that they could
Left those they loved behind
We now cherish, the very thought
A thought that's so profound
Hearts have risen high above
As angle's wings do fly
Carrying forth their love so dear
We hold them near to us
Their wives, their children
Their moms, their dads
Their families, loved ones, friends
And those who walked at their sides
On behalf of all of us
As sunshine gathers, sparkles thought
In the snow that's on a tree
May the beauty of the gift they gave
Shine on for you and me
May the warmth of love surround their hearts
Quell the hurt, the pain the loss
May it bring your soldier, mom, or dad
Close to you tonight
May they wrap their loving arms so tight
Hold you close and oh so near
And let you know you're never alone
At this precious time of year
In life, in birth, a special child
Was born on Christmas morn
To bring to you that special chance
To be near to them once more
May the Joy of Christmas warm your hearts and lift your spirits high
Shine the glow that Christmas brings
Close to you tonight
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake/Morinville, Alberta
Our hearts, Our tears, Our prayers, Shared, This Christmas 2013
[email protected]
David Watson
December 2, 2013
... Thank you for the sacrifice made by yourself and by the members of your family who must now live on without you.
Roger Borchert
November 6, 2013
We Will Remember Them. Written for Remembrance Day 2013
For those who've stood at the gates of hell
As battle rages forth
And stood to hold their line, their fate
To lift a new world rising forth
A world in which freedom's hand
Was openly held toward
To those to escape the bonds that bind
To hold them ever more
From the clutches, the beating down
Their spirit and their hearts
Those who held that outstretched hand
To those who needed help
So thankful all a world should be
For they stood for another voice
One that held our hearts, our minds
Standing very close
Freedom is not just a venture forth
It is a way of life
That lends us all, the gift to stand
Go forth for what is right
And allow all those to climb aboard
Who see it in their sight
Oh Lord you gave us choices
Good or evil found in hearts
The two, so very different hold
Our worlds so far apart
Tonight I looked into the coals
Of embers burning bright
And saw the life of those who share
Our nation's glowing light
At first their dreams are smoke and mirrors
Of a life that used to be
And then each soldier rises up
Gives meaning to where they've been
Learning pride, remembrance
From those who've stood before
Those who tossed the torch that holds
Their futures, evermore
So many didn't return back home
They lay where poppies grow
So many others caught their torch
And across our earth they've roamed
Within this new world
They have worked so hard
To help to come about
A world where sons, where daughters, rise
And share a brand new world's spark
Lord love them for they took a stand
And said no more, no more
A message needed
In our world today
As terror knocks on every door
We could never wander very far
From these hearts so warm that said
Our world needs us brave enough
To stand in terror's way
So as you sit around a campfire's light
Look in and see how bright
The glow that warmed those hearts to stand
As they stood for all of us
We can never forget that step they took
We remember those who gave
All they could towards a better world
A better world today
We Thank Them
We Will Remember Them
Strong of heart
Strong in spirit
Glowing heroes to recall each day
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
Roger Borchert
March 30, 2013
My poem, written for this Easter 2013, in respect of those who have given their very all to bring about a better world on our behalf and in recognition of their families, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers who miss them so deeply at each Easter Sunday meal. May They R.I.P. We Will Remember Them.
Empty chairs each Easter Sunday
In homes across our land
Tears flowing gently
For each son or daughter
Mom or dad
Who gave a heart to Canada
Stood proud for me and you
Stepped forth to make a difference
In a world, in need, they knew
I've seen comets
I've seen meteors
But what I saw the other night
Was a glowing ball
Streak across the sky
In slow motion, in its flight
It glowed so bright, like mini moon
Its colour just the same
And then in the spirit with which it came
Turned to darkness once again
Overjoyed in what, I had seen
It was not a shooting star
It was a light that lifted high
In the brief moment of its spark
Oh lord, so many soldiers
So young and full of life
Have moved my heart
In this gentle way
As they've stood so far apart
Parted from their families
Parted from their friends
Stood so tall for who we are
Given all that could be given
Now held so close, within the hearts
Of those who miss them so
As bright, as seen, this palm Sunday's eve
Not unlike a story foretold
Of a son who gave his very all
So others would follow
Follow in a dream, a way
That a world would see a light
Of goodness spread across a world
At freedoms dawning sight
Oh Lord be near our soldier
Who also gave a life
For all to see a better world
On behalf of all of us
Lord, I dare not compare your son of life
To our warriors brave and true
I only give this humble voice
Of their efforts, the good, they do
Standing tall
Standing brave
Standing with all you shared
Within their hearts as young they were
To mold them
Brave for you
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
How you can show support
Roger Borchert
December 23, 2012
For the Families of Our Fallen This Christmas 2012
Angel's feathers falling
To remind us they're up there
Wind chimes sounding gently
To let us know the lord is near
Today is but a lull, in winter's nasty chill
One can see the storm clouds building
Circling, all around us now
We hold so close the warmth that was
To let it not escape
Yet no matter how hard we try
The warmth, it finds the gate
The chill it reaches down inside
Attaches to the spine
Sends shivers climbing through us now
Hearts are frozen held in time
For those who've lost a loved one, friend
Tis all they can endure
A hope, a wish, a prayer, t'would bring
Their loved one home again
Oh Lord their Soldier stood for all
Please warm these hearts so chilled
So they may find the warmth once shared
With this one no longer near
As they look out through the window
Let the moon and stars, shine bright
Let all about, it glisten forth
On this, this special night
Another hero gave his all
The one who led the way
For them to find a life beyond
And faith to find a day
A way to climb a staircase
To the heavens high above
To join a son, a daughter, friend
To be together once more as one
Oh lord you sent your son, our gift
To those who lend a heart
To those who've given all and more
For those life has forgot
We stand so near, so near Oh Lord
In praise, in solitude
Await a time, a time to share
A loved one entrusted unto you
Thank you Lord
Merry Christmas To All
We will Remember Them Until You Meet Again
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
November 11, 2012
For Remembrance Day 2012
Flurries of snow across our land
A chilly wind bites at the spine
As we stand for those who stood for all
In far off distant lands
Some recall the void, the pain within
Left in hearts, in minds, in lives
Who were impacted at the loss of those
Their lives never the same again
Friends recall fond memories
Child in tears for a mom or dad
A wife recalls the horror of war
That turned her life, a living hell
A mother or father stands in thought
A loss beyond belief
Of one who was their heart their soul
Since counting tiny toes upon their feet
Fellow soldiers, comrades
Loved ones, friends
In their minds they bring them near
In special thoughts of those they've lost
While fighting over there
We as Canadians
Stand proud, respect
All those who stood for all
Sent from a nation whose open heart
Has provided a world a home
Oh lord my heart so empty
As I stand, two minutes given
Just a moment's time
For the life they gave
On behalf of all of us
I cannot be prouder Canada
I could never turn away
From those who've shared
Their loved one forth
A debt we could not repay
Stand proud, Remember, Oh Canada
For those who stand for us
For their families, friends, and comrades too
For they gave for me and you
We are focused on the flower
Began in fields so far away
An image to be remembered now
On each Remembrance Day
We Who Remember Them
Are forever in their debt
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family Slave Lake, AB
Roger Borchert
December 24, 2011
For the Families of Our Fallen, This Christmas 2011
The wind is howling at my doorstep
This eve of Christmas Eve
The trees are bending low its clear
As Christmas day draws near
As I decked the tree this Christmas
I thought of those so brave
Of those who've lost a loved one
Who stepped forth for me and gave
They gave their all for Canada
A gift beyond compare
They stood a world away in time
Where few would tread or dare
So many loved ones share in tears
In thoughts they've left behind
Hugs once held so warm and close
A smile within a mind
The TREE has become so special now
For it holds a life time past
Its sparkling lights a memory's glow
Of a hero once held so near
As garland wrapped the tree in smiles
Those smiles of yesteryears
Those smiles held upon as face
Forever now held near
Each piece of tinsel a frozen tear
Shed at a time of loss
And now reflecting the reason why
For this hero was dearly loved
A true angel tops this Christmas tree
For is seen when looking high
As a loved one lifts their faces near
And a prayer races from a heart
A wish that they were standing near
A wish for laughter's sound
A warmth a hug once use to bring
Remains a memory oh so close
Oh Canada, our heroes gave
Their loved ones hold our hearts
Lord please reach out and hold them close
Please be so near this season forth
By: Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
Our Thoughts, Our Hearts, Our Prayers
Wishing You All A Wonderful Christmas
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
December 24, 2010
For the Families, loved ones, friends of or Fallen This Christmas 2010
Looking back, on childhood’s days
When wonder set the sails
And all imagined could come to life
Within thoughts, dreams as they played
When Santa rode a sleigh one eve
In every coming year
And magic taught sweet dreams to fly
To rooftops every where
Now sitting wishing Christmas Eve
Looking off into the night
Pleading for a shooting star
Enhance this wish with all their might
A wish for just a Christmas hug
From a soldier no longer here
No longer in our earthly world
Held close now, within near
The hearts of those who’ve felt such pain
At the loss of a hero’s life
A hero who stepped forth for all
Bring this hero close this night
As tears once more roll down a cheek
Another endless, sleepless night
Let our Lord brush close a warming hug
Of your loved one, bring them near
A gentle breeze, fond memories’ bring
To hold them ever dear
Wishing the magic of Christmas could bring the smiles, the hugs and the warmth of your loved one, into your home for Christmas. Ever in our hearts and always remembered. May our Lord bless you this Christmas and throughout the coming year.
By Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
November 1, 2010
Thinking of all those who have given so much; those who have paid the Ultimate Sacrifice, our Veterans, our serving soldiers, their families, loved ones and friends at this special time of Remembrance, 2010. We Do Remember.
They crawled on their bellies slowly
In the dirt, the dust, the slime,
Ran onto beaches, lived in fear, a moment out of time.
A time that changed a world in need
A time that set apart
Times that held a world so close, near and dear to every heart
The gas they sent, it took its toll
Many others held that ground
And challenged over and over again
Until freedom’s world was found
Liberated nations cheered delight
A world was aimed anew
But for so many who had lost a life
The tears fell hard and true
They stepped forth for their Nation
They stepped forth for a world to be
They stepped forth to chase the evil back
Keep their families safe and free
Through life times of years gone by
Up to this present day
A brethren strong with so much might
Stepped forth for you and me
We owe so much to those who’ve walked
In fear yet oh so strong
So brave in every step they took
So many now are gone
They have challenged life itself each day
And stood for what was right
They did it with their heart and soul
And stood with all their might
Lord love the souls of these so brave
And cherish duty’s call
For they gave all for a better world
On behalf of one and all.
At this time of Remembrance
Into our hearts we welcome those
Who have walked this solemn journey forth
For those who needed a friend along
We recall their families, loved ones, friends,
For so many have paid the price
Of freedom, or for a world in peace
Or to fight terror in another place
Oh Lord we hold their honour high
Our tears have washed the path
For those who take their torch to stand
As to them the torch is passed
Forever near we promise
We will honour these hearts so brave
And stand nearby their families, friends
For the sacrifice they gave
By Roger Borchert,
Our Hearts, Our Tears, Our Prayers
Thank You. The Borchert Family, Slave Lake Alberta
[email protected]
July 31, 2010
Cole,
A Warrior full of wisdom, humor and courage. Stand tall Soldier...the days may move forward but time stands still in remembering your sacrifice.
Semper Fi,
Denna' Muncy
David McDonald
July 18, 2010
To the family of Cole Bartsch:
I think of your son often. So many have died, yet he comes to my mind all the time. I am sure you are so proud of him. Three years on and I expect it does not get easier. I will always remember him.
Roger Borchert
April 3, 2010
As I focus this Easter Sunday
My heart goes out to you
For a Chair is sitting empty
For a Hero Brave and True
Who gave a life for Canada
And a world we should become
A better world for all to share
A better world for everyone
They had raised their eyes in honour
To the Flag that flew above
They had sung its anthem strongly
In their hearts so full of love
It began for them in childhood
And sang out for years to come
At the vision of the Flag above
Onto which their hearts had clung
This special group, a brotherhood
That stepped forth to a country’s call
For them the Flag was calling
Could not turn away this love
For them it was the strongest call
The path that led the way
For they had held it steadfast near
Flying high above each day
And then one sad, so tragic day
The leaf flew from the sky
To wrap and hold them tightly bound
In return for all their love
It warmed their weary bodies
Clung closer to their hearts
And to hearts that shared the pain, their loss
At such a tremendous cost
Wrapped within the hug that flew above
Love’s vision, all their lives
Now carried forth in a country’s love
For their loving sacrifice
By Roger Borchert
They Will Be Remembered
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
December 23, 2009
To the Families of Our Fallen. Thinking of you this Christmas
The tears that fall to a winter’s sky
A loved one looks off into the night
For Christmas Eve is a lonely time
When a loved one is not held tight
We know they would have been here
For their families, for their friends
If they had not given our world the gift
In their service to all mankind
They stepped forth to change a world so wrong
Lift a country from it’s past
To provide a future for those in need
A future to go forth and last
But someone stole this life so strong
The beauty of a thought
Of stepping forth, to stand protect
And the goodness it could have brought
Please fill this void, warm this broken heart
Who looks out upon this eve
Troubled in a thought, a loss
Of someone now so close to thee
Oh lord please place a gentle thought
A memory of a time
When joy would fill this household warm
And keep it there at Christmas time
Let this family know we care so much
They should not be alone
Please help our thoughts be passed along
To warm those within this home
For Christmas is a time to know
That the coming of this child
Provides for all across our earth
To be reunited with that smile
The one that used to hold a hand
Or hold us in a hug
The one for whom we shed these tears
On this cold and lonely night
Please hold them close on Christmas morn
Celebrate the birthday of this child
Who came to bring salvation forth
To reunite them in awhile
By Roger Borchert
We pray oh Lord you stand near this Christmas to warm, to hold these families tight and mend these hearts so torn. Wishing you all the best this Christmas and throughout the coming year.
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
November 6, 2009
In Respect of our Military Families, Our Fallen, and Wounded on Remembrance Day
For what we take for granted
So many have died for
So many lives so vastly changed
At the dreadful cost of war
There is the good; there is the bad
A liberated nation cheers
Left in dread for those young souls lost
Devastated a world back home
Efforts to protect a peace
That no one thought was near
Laying lives upon the line
Visions at times so unclear
Lives touched by fear or lived in dread
Of wounded coming home
Of crosses lined in many rows
From a trip down a heroes road
I have been sitting on the bank
Of a river flowing by
Flowing heavy with the flood of tears
From their family’s eyes
For on this day of remembrance
Their thoughts, their dreams, their prayers
Are focused on a loved one lost
Leaving them in such despair
My heart it wants to reach out
Let them know I can’t forget
The gift they’ve laid for their fellow man
Tis the greatest gift to give
So humbled in a moment’s thought
So treasured was the step
That they took forth at their country’s call
Let it never be forgot
We measure freedom lightly now
For we’ve grown so familiar with
But if not for those who took this step
And gave this precious gift
Would we take it so very lightly
Would we have the chance to vent
About all that annoys and bothers us
Without retribution for what we’ve said
So thankful they stood so proudly for
All that we hold so dear
All that makes us Canada
For me it’s oh so clear
For some others they just don’t get it
They think so little of
What has been placed in front of them
At the cost of someone’s love
If I could send forth a message
Place it in a bottle, float it by
I’d provide a note of how much I care
For those whose tears are flowing by
If I could walk along this shore
Such a warming hug I’d give
To those who’ve lost a loved one
So we can live the way we live
By Roger Borchert
So Many gave so much so we could be who we are. So Proud to be Canadian
We will Remember Them
Our Hearts, Our Tears, Our Prayers
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake Alberta
Roger Borchert
April 8, 2009
Thinking of our Canadian Fallen Soldiers due to our efforts in Afghanistan. For them, their families, friends and fellow soldiers during this Easter Season: this Poem was written with the help of one of their Mothers. For her assistance and inspiration I am so very, very grateful.
We thank you Lord for being near
And for your gifts given unto us
We thank you too for sending forth
Your son’s so gentle touch
He provides our world with caring hearts
Without which we could not love
He gives strength to those who would step forth
In a world hidden but from above
They’ve stepped beneath terrors darkened clouds
Too many whisked away
We pray Oh Lord you gather them
Provide them a new day
Please take them close, near to thee
We entrust them to your care
Let them rest awhile hold them near
And set their spirits free
May they stand proud now
Among their peers
Families, friends, and loved ones too
For in the loving Grace of an angel’s touch
We’re drawn so much closer unto you
Thank you so very much for your efforts and sacrifice towards making our world a better place.
Our tears, our hearts, our prayers
Roger Borchert
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
Rodger Ellis
January 26, 2009
Just stopped in to say hi again. Still thinkin about ya buddy ;)
Roger Borchert
December 31, 2008
For the loved ones of Canada’s Fallen Heroes
May the New Year bring
A warmth to thee
That helps to heal the heart
That mends the fracture caused within
That’s torn you apart
May it whisper in your ear at night
That love is standing near
That you will never be alone
A warmth to quell your fear
May it welcome you in mornings’ light
And be near throughout the day
Standing near to comfort you
In a needed special way
May you always know
The time will come
Together you will be
Find in the tear a memory brings
The joy it helped you see
May the lord be near throughout the year, come and help in every day, that it takes for you to overcome this tragedy life did play.
Our Hearts, Our tears, Our Prayers
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
December 20, 2008
For the families, loved ones, and friends of Canada’s fallen soldiers: It was written this evening with thoughts of what you and your families are going through at this season and could not hold it back any longer. It is my Christmas gift to you all.
I thank you for wandering near
As you think of where I lie
You think of what I went through
And a tear wells up inside
Let not that tear
Fall for me I’m sitting watching you
For I’m not there at all no more
I’m here inside of you
I’m sitting near within your thoughts
And in your memories
I’m just the thought a gentle breeze
In a gust of memory
I’m the gentle shiver when you are near
I’m the glimmer in your eye
I’m the sparkle that a teardrop brings
When it wells up in your eye
I’m the smile a fond moment brings
I’m the warmth you held so dear
Remember that, as time goes by
And know I’m standing near
As you look upon the Christmas tree
Shinning at this time of year
Know the Lord sent his only son
So that I could be standing near
May our Lord be near you all.
Our hearts and prayers go out to you all during this so difficult time of year. Please know that it comes complete with the glisten of tears held within the eyes of it’s, author Roger Borchert. Thank you so very much for the efforts of your loved one towards making our world a better place
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
November 6, 2008
In Respect and Remembrance of Our Fallen Warriors, their Mothers, Fathers, Wives, Children, Grandparents, Loved Ones, Friends, Fellow Troops, and all those Canadians whose hearts and tears lay at your side; I submit:
There are no words that I can place here in this registry that could ever justify or explain the loss of your loved one, friend, or fellow soldier. Please know that my family and I cannot stand idly by, without taking a moment, to express how much our hearts go out to you. There is no greater gift towards the future of our country, our world, our humanity, than the efforts and sacrifices made by our Canadian forces towards making our world a better place. Whatever the politics of the day, whatever the leadership of the moment, our selfless warriors have stepped forth to deploy to meet the needs of our changing world, with honour and an integrity that is unrivalled. We as Canadians truly bow and honour your efforts and sacrifice.
We have fallen on fields of battle
In lands so far from home
We have marched to war in honour
For those who’ve felt alone
We have defended those who couldn’t
And stood between the lines
Of two opposing armies
In this new world in our time
We have stood for those who cannot
For those who are oppressed
Standing shoulder to shoulder
To help others do their best
We have held our line with honour
Fury held at bay
Rebuilding a broken nation
To allow all to have a say
Our sons and daughters moms and dads
Stepped forth to make it so
A gift given for a better world
Such a precious gift you know
Our youth in pride have stepped forth
Do this job as best they can
Lay their life upon the line
Each true Canadians
They will not be forgotten
We can never turn away
They have taught the price of giving
In such an honoured way
For where would our world be then
If we just stood by and watched
Could we look ourselves in the eye
And say it wasn’t lost
Our tears. Our thanks. Our prayers.
The Borchert Family, Slave Lake, Alberta
[email protected]
Roger Borchert
October 1, 2008
With a heavy heart stepping forth
Please forgive me when I say
That I let you down in the past
In not a little way
I did not write to let you know
Just how much I cared
For the sacrifice you’ve given
For so many in despair
You stepped forth and joined our forces
Laid your life upon the line
To bring about a safer world
A new world in our time
Fellow soldiers friends and families
And those you held so dear
Still think of you most everyday
For us others it’s not so clear
We must slow down and take the time
Understand how great the cost
For if not placed in front of us
Can we comprehend the loss
Sometimes we’re just so very shy
Or we don’t know what to say
Or do not want to interfere
Or seem superficial in any way
I can no longer withhold my thoughts
I have to pass them on
For it breaks my heart just thinking of
All those left to carry on
Please know that you are in my prayers
Will be there for years to come
Know that you are in my thoughts
For the efforts you have done
Oh yes there is that special day
To remember not to forget
Those who’ve paid the greatest price
We can never repay this debt
Cpl. Cole Bartsch we knew you not, but our prayers reach out for you, your loved ones, friends, and fellow soldiers. We do, so dearly, thank you and your loved ones for your efforts towards making our world a better place.
The Borchert Family Slave Lake Alberta
Hali Brown
December 17, 2007
I am very sorry for your loss. But very proud of all the Canadian Fallen Heroes, I wish I could have said thank you in person.
Sinny
November 12, 2007
In my rememberance day assembly i was honoured to represent the fallen soldiers that were killed in afghanistan and my soldier happened to be Cole Bartsch. It was a great honour to stand for him.
Tanya Belcourt
August 24, 2007
No will ever have the words to explain the words your family and friends feel!
I never new you but seen all your pictures and all your great friends,
you have that care about you!
Thanks for giving my family and I freedom!
You are cared about in many ways by people that have never met you!
and those that new you well!
Take care Cole!
Bernadette Mihalicz-Evans
August 20, 2007
To the family of Cole Bartsch
My family's deepest sympathies and condolences go out to you. We can't begin know and understand the grief you are experiencing. Our thoughts and prayers go with you and your family.
God bless and keep you
Bernadette Mihalicz-Evans
mother of
Lt. C.L. Evans 1st Battalion PPCLI
Krystal Tomchuk
August 13, 2007
hello cole, as i know you read all of this. i never got to know you just your sister, i hope you can take time out of the other side as much as possible, show all your loved ones your still here, still with them and more alive then ever. i know they will feel you. thank you cole for your great life that has entered averybodys hearts
Amanda Anderson ( wife of Cpl. Jordan Anderson)
August 6, 2007
I feel your pain.
Teresa Pelda ( J. Anderson's mother-in-Law)
August 5, 2007
To Cole's Family
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you at this time. May the love of those close to you help lift the pain from your heart.
Ryan Hogue
August 1, 2007
Cole i will miss seeing that radiant smile that you always had. You were such a good friend and i will never forget the fun times we had together. You will always be my hero.
soft landing jumper
Rodger Ellis
July 31, 2007
Cole i will always cherish the times Mike, You and I had when we played army when we were kids. I will never forget you and will tell your story for years to come. You are my, my children, my grandchildrens and many to comes Hero. Thanks Cole
Sheila Anderson
July 24, 2007
We gave them values and the power to dream for others, a better tomorrow for all. I am forever grateful for their sacrafice.
Love to you and yours.
Ashley Audette
July 22, 2007
Just wanted to pay my respects to Cole and his family. I am a good friend of his sister Joey..What he did was an amazing thing. Hes a true hero and the bartsch family and Cole will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Don Poland
July 19, 2007
To the family of Cole Bartsch
Our deepest sympathies and condolences. We know and understand a bit of the grief you are experiencing.
Don Poland, father of Cpl Brent Poland (1 of the 6 soldiers killed on Easter Sunday)
Kristen Pawlowich
July 17, 2007
Cole was a great friend & soilder. I had lots of great times with him, I was always trying to find him a new girl friend here and there, and Ill never forget him.
I am so sorry for your loss, you will be in my thoughts and prayers, I thank you for bringing into this world such a wonderful man, he will inspire forever.
James Friesen
July 17, 2007
I am sorry for your loss. Men and Women go to places like Cole did because they want to make a difference. It really hit home as to the sacrifices these people make when Mom told me that one of my Family made the Ultimate Sacrifice. Love, James and Eliane
Karen Delaney
July 16, 2007
To the family of Cpl.Bartsch I want to send you my gratitude for the service of your son. He makes me proud to be a Canadian and I am grateful for everything he has done for us. My heart goes out to you all at this time, and I pray that God will send his love and strength to you. He was a true hero and will always be remembered as such,I know he will always be with you. God Bless you all.
Anonymous
July 16, 2007
Hearts across the country break for you and thoughts are with you at this time of unbearable pain
Suzanne Ball
July 15, 2007
To The Bartsch Family,
Please except my sympathy on the loss of Cole.He belonged to all of us and we give thanks that he gave so much so that we could have a better life.We are all so proud of him and all our amazing soldiers.May God give you peace in your time of sorrow.Thank you Cole for your bravery and for giving all of us someone to look up to.
Yours Truly,
Suzanne Ball
Thom Ilgenfritz
July 15, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends.
Holly Crawford
July 15, 2007
We are so sad to hear of this tragic event. You are in our hearts and on our prayer list.
Diana Sutherland
July 15, 2007
Canada will remember the huge
sacrifice Mr Cole Bartsch made for
his country.
I am so very sorry for your lose,
and send my heartfelt sympathy.
Gerald & Florence Dagenais
July 14, 2007
Please receive our most sincere gratitude and prayers for the lost of such a one as this. There is no greater sacrifice or spirit of courage and valor that one can demonstrate.
Gian Singh and Surinder Kaur Sandhu
July 14, 2007
Plesae accept our deepest condolences. Our prayers are with the family.
The Mugford Family
July 14, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bartsch family today.Cole will never be forgotten.God Bless.
Glenn Alford
July 14, 2007
I cannot imagine the grief of losing a loved one, and so far from home. You have the nations gratitude for his sacrifice and sorrow for your loss. May God bless Cpl. Bartsch and all who mourn his passing.
amena
July 14, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Vernon M. Randall
July 14, 2007
It is sacrifices like yours that make this country great.
Thank you.
Louise Power-Belec
July 14, 2007
To the family of Cole,
So terribly sad for you and for all you've lost. As the mother of a soldier who leaves soon for Afghanistan, I understand. May God give you strengh to deal with this.
Uttley Family
July 14, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Mike Oliver
July 14, 2007
Our sincerest and deepest sympathies
Verna and David Neufeld
July 14, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and comrades of Cpl. Cole Bartsch. May God bless you in this time of sorrow and may your memories bring you comfort.
Proud parents of a Canadian Soldier
Ron & Heidi O'Quinn
July 14, 2007
Please accept our condolences, we are so very saddened by your loss.
We, and all of Canada are so very proud of you and your brave son, and we are so sorry that he payed the ultimate price for standing on guard for our nation.
He is a true Hero.
Clare Schwartzentruber
July 14, 2007
The Bartsch Family
Although we did not know Cole personally, we want you to know that his greatest gift of love and protection " to lay down his life for his friends and country " in this war against evil is greatly appreciated and honoured by our extended family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
fraser murray
July 14, 2007
forever in our hearts...never to be forgotten..watching over us....we thank you for your brave soul...may you rest in the arms of our creator...always madison in albany ny
Jamie Polsom
July 14, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with Cole's family and friends during this difficult time.
May God Bless. We are very proud of our Troops.
Bonnie Herrett Dennis O'Neill
July 14, 2007
Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of a true Canadian Hero.
We will not forget.
Darryl&Shelley Haughie & Family
July 14, 2007
Our Thoughts and Our Prayers are with you all, in your time of need.
ronald stratford
July 14, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Norm & Liette Thibault
July 14, 2007
You worked for a number of years with our daughter Laurie. You were always the consumate hard worker, thoughtful, a true friend. You are a real hero and will be greatly missed. Norm and Liette Thibault
Michael & Diane Simmons (Ret'd Army)
July 12, 2007
As a retired military family we are well aware of the sacrifices made by our service personnel. Sincere sympathy to the family, friends and commrades of Cpl. Bartsch. May God keep you in the palm of His hand until you meet again.
jackie burt
July 12, 2007
with deepest sympathy we remember you for all the good things you have given us . with the passing days the sorrow deepens. another family has lost a child . i am so sorry for your loss, but he was doing great things and he will never be forgotten by a nation for that . words cannot lessen the pain they can only soften the way for healing . with deepest sympathy for the bartsch family
Debbie and Bruce Knight Knight
July 12, 2007
We want you to know how proud we are that Cole stood for our beliefs and boldly helped the people of Afghanistan. We trust that the love and prayers of all Canadians will help you through the next very sad and difficult days. You will all be in our prayers.
Jenny Bustamante
July 12, 2007
It takes me by surprise to see such brave men at a young age. It makes me even more sad to think that he never made it to his 24th bday. He was so young, sad to think that we are the same age and I am still here. I want to thank him and his family for the couragious spirit that he had. You will always be remembered!
Hazel Stewart
July 12, 2007
You are my HERO.
Marcie Beech
July 11, 2007
I am so sorry of your loss, It broke my heart to hear the loss of more brave men. Your son is a brave man that this country owes alot to.
So sorry.
Betty Ferland
July 11, 2007
So sorry for the loss of a loved one.My condolences to the families and friends.
Natasha Dawkins
July 11, 2007
You are our hero.
May God keep you close to his heart and in the hearts of your family and friends.
Nora BouFakhreddine
July 11, 2007
I met Cole a few years ago through mutual friends and I will never forget his big eyes, warm smile and kind heart. My most sincere condolences to your family.
Susan Wilkinson
July 10, 2007
I was one of many Canadians standing on the Rougemount overpass in Pickering Ontario. The fire engine and police cars sirens gave a salute to Cole and his mates, as they were taken to Toronto Forensics. We waved our flags in silence, in honour of our heroes. I captured it on video to share with friends and family who could not be there. These brave men and what they sacraficed for us will not be forgotten. Susan Wilkinson Toronto Ontario
Steven haggart
July 10, 2007
Thanks for the memories from kindergarten on. Playing ball was one of so many highlights, I will never forget.
The Ambrose Family
July 10, 2007
Our sincere condolences to the Family, extended Family, and to all of Cole's friends, civilian, and military. Your son is a True Hero. May God Bless you, and give you strength to cope with the loss of your precious son Cole.
The Ambrose Family, LaSalle, Qc.
Sandra, Paul Weir
July 10, 2007
Words cannot express our saddness for your loss. With deepest sympathy for Cole Bartsch's family, extended family and friends.
Corporal Taylor Kilmartin's Mother and Stepfather, Sandra Martin and Paul Weir.
Dean&Audrey Droesse
July 10, 2007
Dennis & Juanita
There are no words that will ease your pain. You and your family are in our thoughts. I was speaking to our daughter Megan who went to school with Cole. She was with Kari and Kim and they came to your place not too long ago, Cole was home and Megan said he was so confident and out going. She remembered him as being quite shy in school. No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Natasha Kenwell
July 10, 2007
Cole your where the most caring person I have ever met. I am honoured to have know you. You will be forever missed and never forgotten
Troy & Diana and Gabriel Livingston
July 10, 2007
Dennis & Juanita and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
lisa jacobs
July 10, 2007
lisa jacobs god will be with you
Jacquie Blake
July 10, 2007
As the mother of a soldier heading over to Kandahar at the end of this
month, I can understand the fear and the worry families have for their soldier sons and daughters, husbands and wives, sisters and brothers. I can only begin to imagine the pain of losing them.
Believe me when I say my heart breaks for the family, friends and military family of Matthew.
Let us be reminded of how precious
life is and how in an insecure world others are prepared to sacrifice their lives for our own.
Cole Bartsch is a true Canadian hero.
Matthew and Brenda Stepp
July 9, 2007
Dennis, Juanita and Family
Our deepest sympathies on your tragic loss of Cole. We must remember, he died doing what he loved and for the love of mankind and freedom.
Everyone who knew him will miss him and those who have not had the honor of meeting him will, through the memories of family and friends feel like they knew him.
Thank you Cole for the greatest gift of all... Sacrificing yourself for our freedom.
Your Legacy will forever live on.
Love and Respect
Brenda Stepp, Councillor
July 9, 2007
Our prayers and condolences go out to the Bartsch family in this unfortunate time. We, the citizens of the Village of Donalda thank Cole and all those fighting to maintain our freedom and security.
We will remember tham and those before them, ALWAYS.
Kay Kennedy
July 9, 2007
I send my sincere condolences to the family of Cole. I too lost my wonderful son Pte. Kevin V. Kennedy in Afganistan on Easter Sunday, April 8th, 2007. I understand & know the pain,the loss, heartache, & despair you are going through. May God give us the strength to face the days ahead without these wonderful, caring, giving human beings. God bless you, always, Kevin's Mom
Jennifer Borho
July 9, 2007
cole you were the best cousin anyone could ask for rest in pease huni i love you and will always remember you and my little girl will know about you too love and miss you
Kevin Chevarie
July 9, 2007
May you find the peace that we fight so hard to protect. I will never forget any of you.
Paricia Fitzpatrick
July 9, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
ronda ellis
July 9, 2007
i love you cole and i am going to miss you so very much!!your an amazing man and i will never forget you. i am so glad i had the time to know you like i did. my prayers are with your family. i miss you and i love you!
Michelle Speelman
July 9, 2007
God Bless You Cole.... God must of needed an other Angel in Heaven....God Bless your family and friends......
Sandra Michaelis
July 9, 2007
Our family would like to express our condolences.Cole will never be forgotten.Our thoughts are with you and your family.
The Oakes family
Ottawa Ontario
Rebeckah Knysh
July 8, 2007
Cole was an amazing man with a sence of passion for life it was noticable in the way that he carried out his life. He loved everyone the same and always had a smile. Cole will turely be missed at the family functions but we all have the memories. To Dennis, Juanita, and family keep the knowlege that God is watching over all of you and He is there for you! God Bless You All!
Love Rebeckah & Greg Knysh
Katie McLaughlin
July 8, 2007
I only knew Cole for a short period of time, but what I saw was a dedicate, funloving young man full of professionalism and courage. My hearts go out to you and your family, his friends, and everyone else sharing in the grief.
Janice Wiper-Doucette
July 8, 2007
Cole will never be forgotten. Take care of each other. Love from a mother of a son serving in Afghanistan.
Karen Boreham
July 8, 2007
Tara and family:
My most sincere condolences are extended to you at this time. My memories of Cole, are of a happy and dedicated seventh grade student who always found a reason to smile. I am very saddened and shocked to learn of this tragedy. I am very proud to say that I knew him. I know it will be little comfort, but, my thoughts, along with those of an entire country, are with you at this time.
William Menz
July 8, 2007
As a father of a son in the U.S. Marines and a son of a father who died in Korea, I honor you and your son who gave his all in the service of his country and all the free people throughout the world.
It will never be easy for you to understand, but be proud of your son's commitment. We need more like him. We are proud that Canada is our ally in the war on terror.
I wish you God's peace in your times of mourning. Never stop believing in freedom. We have both learned the difficult lesson that "freedom is never free."
Blessings to you and yours.
Toni Budgell
July 8, 2007
I am soo sorry for the lose of Cole I am happy he was doing what he wanted when he died and he was surving his country. I am here for you guys. All my thoughts and prayers are for you all at this time.
Heather Garrison
July 8, 2007
My thoughts are with your family in their time of sorrow. Words cannot begin to express the sadness I feel for you and my respect and admiration for Cole. My family and I will always remember and appreciate his dedication and sacrifice.
Fiona Bateson
July 8, 2007
Please accept my condolences.
Paul Chung
July 8, 2007
May the Blessings Be.
Rupi Mttal
July 8, 2007
Those who die for their motherland remain alive in the hearts of people for ever!! May the God grant you peace and bless you all!! Amen !!
karon murphy
July 8, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Margie Hazelman
July 8, 2007
Dear Juanita, Dennis and family,
We are very sorry to hear of your great loss. May you find the strength and comfort in each other as you keep his memory alive. Love from Margie (Christine's sister)and family, Randolph, Fanny and Anna Bentley and families in Fiji.
Connie Therrien
July 8, 2007
My Heart breaks for you the family.
It is never right for a parent to loose one of there own.
Carl Wilson
July 7, 2007
To the Bartsch family and Friends
We keep your son and family in our prayers. We know your pain as we lost our son Trooper Mark Wilson nine months ago in Afghanistan.
Sincerely
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