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BORN
1991
DIED
2017
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Adam Bear Obituary
Our beloved, Adam Richard Bear, died April 27, 2017 as the result of an overdose. He was 25 years old. Because Adam wanted to give back and help others, we share his story.
Adam was born in Akron, Ohio on August 23, 1991, the son of Jeff Bear and Michelle (Taylor) Benson. Adam attended West Port High School in Ocala, Fla. Most recently, he was employed as a salesman for Delray Nissan in Delray Beach, Fla. Adam enjoyed going to the gym, snowboarding, four wheeling, jet skiing, bonfires on the beach, reading - especially Harry Potter - and will always be remembered for his charming personality, disarming good looks and welcoming smile.
Unfortunately, he will also be remembered as a statistic. When Adam graduated from high school his only goal was to be wealthy and he pursued the trappings of success with a passion. Along Adam's journey, he made a bad decision to experiment with prescription opioids. This eventually led him to the world of heroin. Once heroin got ahold of Adam it never let him go. Adam's family truly loved him and tried to be supportive as he struggled with addiction. He fiercely fought for years.
All Adam wanted was a normal life, free from the chains of addiction. Even though his story came to a sad end much too soon, if a life can be saved because his was lost, his goal of helping others will carry on.
If you have a loved one struggling with addiction, be assured that there are resources that can help. Please don't be afraid of risking a friendship by keeping silent - you may end up losing a friend. Local resources include Nar-Anon Family Groups, The Addicts Mom and Breaking Barriers-Hope Is Alive.
Adam was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Sandy Taylor and Barbara Bear.
He is survived by his parents, Michelle (David) Benson, Jeff (Nancy) Bear; brothers, Connor and Kevin Bear; sister, Lauren Benson; maternal grandfather, Denny Taylor; paternal grandparents, Dick and Sandy Bear; Uncle, Chad Taylor; cousins, Brooklyn and Chase Taylor; Aunt, Jody and Uncle, Terry Petitt; cousins, Jessica and Jennifer.
Calling hours will be held Friday, May 5th from 9 to 11 a.m. at Grace Church, 754 Ghent Road, Fairlawn, Ohio. Services will be immediately following at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation to Breaking Barriers, P.O. Box 534, Uniontown, OH 44685.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Adam Bear
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
Donald Darby
July 30, 2018
I'm putting together dots and I'm thinking this is my good friend Dick Bear's grandson and my friend Jeff's son. Hope I'm wrong. These are really good folks that I am sure were aware of Adam's problems and did their best. It hurts me that they are hurting. God Bless America
Peggy Bragg
June 10, 2018
My heart breaks for your loss. Your son sounded like a fine young man with so much to give. I,too,lost a very special young man to this horrible disease. Like Adam he fought the demons for years,but in the end they took him. I admire your courage sharing your story. Hopefully it will lead someone to seek help or resist the temptation to use the first time. May God give you strength.
Michall Moore-Schlegel
June 10, 2018
I grieve your loss and I also grieve the loss of my daughter she is addicted to heroin also so I believe she is not the person that I knew just a short year ago I will never give up on her and thank you for sharing I know this will help me in many others. God wanted to relieve his pain and now he is rejoicing in the arms of the Lord have faith in that.God bless and our prayers are with your family
Kim JeJefferson
June 6, 2018
I am so sorry for your son, Adam, and your family's loss in this battle. It is awful how many of us are in the same struggle. I have friends who have also lost their very much loved children. May you eventually find some peace and joy in life. Thank you for your honesty and helping to break the barriers and bringing it in the public spotlight.
Jeff and Nancy Bear
April 27, 2018
We love you Adam your spirit shines on youre in our thoughts and prayers and missed so very much by those who you surrounded and got the pleasure to of met you. Peace and never ending love. Dad,Nancy and baby brother Andy.
Jeff, Nancy BEAR
April 23, 2018
Love you Adam always in our hearts...dad,Nancy,and Andy
Nancy Bear
April 23, 2018
Hi Adam it's your step mother Nancy I love u and miss you so and I know your younger brother Andy knows you more then you know ..he points at your picture and laughs and smiles.
We love you Adam Bear please know...love,peace happiness for as long as we shall so........love,peace,infinity...shine forever. AMEN
Mona Wenger
July 20, 2017
Sorry for your loss of your son. Thank you for telling his story and your story.
SelenaRose Santos
June 25, 2017
God bless his soul. And bring peace to your family. In Jesus name. Amen
Rose Landrum
June 19, 2017
I have no words but understand alot of your pain. I have waited many years for that same call. God bless you and your family.
Vanessa Allen
June 19, 2017
I'm so sorry for what your family is going through. As a recovering addict myself, I've seen way too many lives cut short because of this awful drug. I pray for strength and healing for your family through the comforting arms of Jesus Christ. God bless you and be with you.
June 1, 2017
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
June 1, 2017
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Patty Briand
May 25, 2017
Sharing your story absolutely is a small part of moving forward one step at a time. May God continue to give you strength as you bring something wonderful to others out of the ashes of your incredible, heartbreaking loss. Praying you feel God's amazing presence with you every minute of every day.
Sandra Haner
May 22, 2017
Peace for all of you and may he rest in peace prayers
Sandra Haner
May 22, 2017
Sorry for your loss
Nancy Laughter
May 22, 2017
Well...thank you for sharing your heartache in the hopes it will help save a life. What you wrote about with Adam sounded like a repeat of my son's life and death. His name was Ryan, my only child who died 16 months ago from the heralds of drug abuse. I too hope to share his story with the hopes it will make a difference. I have begun by getting involved with the homeless and drug addicted but will soon start to speak at rehabs. I miss him everyday and I think about him, his life, his death and what if.... I know better but it is only natural when the ending is final. Thank you for your honesty and love. Your son was blessed. ❤
May 22, 2017
SORRY FOR DEAR ADAM. I DONT KNOW WHETHER WHAT I AM WRITING SHOULD HAVE BEEN WRITTEN OR NOT BUT I MYSELF AS AN ALCOHOLIC WAS TILL ONE AND HALF MONTH TODAY ABLE TO STAY AWAY FROM ALCOHOL BY JOINING ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS GROUP WHERE LESSON IS TO BELIEVE ON A POWER GREATER THEN YOU, SURRENDER TO HIM, KEEP COMING TO MEETINGS REGULARLY AND DONOT DRINK BETWEEN 2 MEETINGS. SIMILAR GROUP IS FOR NARCOTIC ADDICTS WHO CAN LEAVE THIS ADDICTION BY ONE DAY AT A TIME AND TIME VS TIME ONE CAN BE AWAY FROM A PARTICULRLY ADDICTION FOR YEARS TOGETEHR AND FEEL JOY AND HAPPINESS. AMEN! HALLELUJAH!
S. P.
May 21, 2017
I did not know your son, but I am deeply sorry for your loss! He must have been an amazing young man!
After a life threatening illness I became dependant on and quickly addicted to opiates. After losing just about everything, including my 2 small children, I was fortunate to have an amazing ex husband who provided access to a wonderful treatment center! I am clean for almost 10yrs now. God Bless you and your courage!!! I've never hidden the fact that I'll always be an addict and have lost people I love for that reason. You are doing God's work Love! I've no doubt you will save others by sharing your family's story! God bless you, we will be praying for your family!
Love & Prayers,
S.P.
Natasha Thomas
May 20, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss may God's Comfort bring you peace. I didn't know your son Adam but I do know addiction. My brother is an addict. Thank you for sharing your truth with everyone. I know that took courage and was a scary thing to do for you. I will be in prayer for your family. May knowing that he is no longer suffering in his addiction bring you hope and Comfort. God bless you and your family and may the Holy Spirit pour out our Fathers peace into your grief, as you grieve for your loved one.
Adetunbo Akaji
May 20, 2017
So very sorry for your loss.
Michelle Hutto
May 19, 2017
Sending love,prayer,and condolences from TN.I didn't know Adam,but I lost my son to a heroin overdose almost 2 years ago and a best friend 1 year ago to the same fate.Addiction is a merciless demon,but there is hope in recovery and in our heavenly father.Praying God comforts and strengthens and gives the understanding thru this loss & I wholeheartedly commend you on your honesty and compassion of your soldier Adam who is now free from what once weighed so heavily on him,Adam now dances in Gods garden.Blessings to you and your family dear!❤
Lucy Wilson
May 17, 2017
I don't know Adam, but my son age 20 also died on April 28 2017.
I feel the same as you.
sue boles
May 17, 2017
Didn't know your son but I have a niece been addict for years. Grandparents raised first child and x raising second child. So sad. My prayers go out to you.
Gwen Hochstetler
May 17, 2017
I am so very sorry for your loss. I didn't know Adam, but I have addicts in my family. It breaks my heart.
May God Bless You with a peace that surpasses all understanding.
Destiny Neal
May 16, 2017
My condolences to you and your family. I really appreciate you taking the tragic death of your loved one and trying to help others struggling. I'm in recovery and I thank God every day for the blessings I have in this life. I speak about my past and struggles to anyone who will listen! The stigma needs to change so people will want to seek help! It's heartbreaking how we get treated, even in recovery I still get treated awfully by some medical professionals . I'm open and honest, never hide anything and it's still a battle to be treated with respect and kindness. I'm so very sorry for your loss, Adams story will help save lives.
May 14, 2017
My daughter Shelley called me with this news of Adam, she was in Reliance Treatment Center with him. She spoke of what a good man he was. This obituary is so so true of the stigma of addiction, my daughter has been fighting this monster for years. I am so sorry for your loss, but you know he is at peace now. From a mom of an addict. Thank you for saying what alot of people cant or dont understand and dont want to.
Kim Oram
Hope
May 13, 2017
Michelle and Dave, I'm so sorry for your loss, another young life gone too soon to the grasp of addiction. Also, thank you for sharing your families story. My only sister passed away in November 2014 from an overdose. I was on opiates for 5 years, until 2012. Heroin has such a hold on people, after a few months complete control. This isn't the place for "my" story, but to respectively try to reach someone else, I will say in my opinion to get sober is first a choice, BUT people Cant do it alone! I didn't have family support or rehab. I had ONE friend, and determination to beat it. A new environment and staying busy. Thank you again. Your family is in my prayers.
J.B. a stranger who cares
May 12, 2017
This is truly heartbreaking. To the Parents, Siblings, and Family of Adam. I never met your loved one and I am SO very sorry and heartbroken for you to read about his passing. The eulogy written for him was very beautiful and touching and you can tell he was much loved. I would like to thank you for sharing his life story and I commend you for your honesty. Although, Adam's story is tragic I pray that just one person who reads this realizes drugs are not the answer to their hurt or troubles and hopefully they decide this is not the path they want to take. I pray you take Solace in knowing Adam is SAFE IN the ARMS of OUR LOVING SAVIOR...my heartfelt condolences to all who knew this young handsome man.....
Rana Lepp
May 10, 2017
Michelle and Dave,Words can't express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. It's been a while since I have seen Adam but clearly remember his warm smile and big heart. I wish you all well.Best,Rana Lepp
Bonnie Mota
May 9, 2017
So sad to hear about your son's passing. Our son died too on april 27,2017 of an overdose. He was 21, his name was Alex. The obituary you wrote was what all of us parents want to say. From one grieving parent to another, i feel your pain. God bless your family
Linda
May 8, 2017
Thank You for sharing your son's addiction story. I am so sorry for your loss but thanks for wanting to erradicate the embarrassment of addiction. You are right in that the only way we can beat this epidemic is to talk about it. May your driving force be your son's memory to help others who are still struggling, ashamed and hiding. Help stop addiction--SPEAK OUT--NO MORE SHAME!
Loving grandmother
May 8, 2017
Dear Michelle and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. My grandson will be 25 next week and is living the same life as Adam. He has tried rehab 3 times but once they go through detox many times they are sent home and nothing has changed in learning to deal with and handle addition. Most addicts DO NOT WANT TO BE ADDICTS! They don't know how to break the cycle. I constantly hear "he has to make that choice to stop". We would give anything if it were only that easy. My heart breaks for you. There are days that I feel like I will explode from worry. My grandson has been in jail for 3 weeks. SO hard , but he is alive, waiting for a rehab program. I pray every day that this will finally be the answer. Words can't make your pain go away. I pray Adam has found his peace and you can find yours.
.
A Friend
May 6, 2017
God bless you for bravery honesty compassion and care in writing such a beautiful tubule to your handsome son . I'm so so sorry for your loss addiction hits home for so many of us have been touched by this horrid beast. It steals and robs lives It it cannot and will not steal love memories and hope! Know that much love is surrounding you now. I don't know you personally but you're in my heart!
May 6, 2017
My thoughts are with you and your family at this time. Your honesty and strength are amazing.
Sue Magazzeni
GOJO Industries
Roxanne Bowling
May 5, 2017
Such a beautiful person. R.I.P. be free from what tied you down. Watch over your family, and most important to know you were loved. Prayers to the family.,Such a beautiful person. R.I.P. be free from what tied you down. Watch over your family, and most important to know you were loved. Prayers to the family.
Joseph Thornton
May 5, 2017
I don't know Adam or your family. I did read his obituary made famous by a loving mother though. I want to offer my sincere condolences as well as my appreciation and admiration for the honest and humble way you stated the situation and the generosity you exhibit in trying to use your loss to help others. May your message carry help to others in need may your hearts heal from your loss. God bless you all!
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Kansis Charles
May 5, 2017
Charity Smith
May 4, 2017
This is a truly beautiful obituary and testament to this young man's legacy. Although I do not know your family, I greatly appreciate your willingness to share your story that it may help save others.
Pam Veith
May 4, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. Addiction related deaths are heart breaking. May Adam rest in peace
Rita Thomas
May 4, 2017
Michelle and Family,
Thank you for sharing Adams life story. I pray that it helps someone struggling with addictions and his or her families feelings of helplessness. I know you loved him with your whole heart and soul Michelle.
I pray that the memories you have of Adam help you in this tragic time. May his beautiful smile help ease your grief and be comforted that he is no longer fighting.
Love and hugs to you and your family.
Crystal Varner
May 4, 2017
Michelle - I'm sending tons of prayers, love and hugs to you and your family. The feeling of losing a child is indescribable - but know that what the world tried to control, God stepped in and saved him. Take comfort in knowing that he's resting now and no longer fighting. Love you lady and praying God's peace for everyone.
holly martin
May 3, 2017
Me and Adam met a few years ago in Ohio at a work conference we both worked for grave yards,he caught my eye the first day and the feelings were mutual,we just stayed good friends and it breaks my heart that I will never c his facebook posts again r.I.p Adam.
Meghan Martin
May 3, 2017
I am so sorry for the loss of your son, but can't thank you enough for sharing his story as I feel the world needs to quit making addiction so taboo - it needs to be brought to the spotlight, as addiction is a terrible disease. I hope you find some peace knowing that your son is no longer fighting with himself. I am praying for you and your family and may your son be able to Rest in the peace and comfort of the lord.
From a Cincinnati Teacher, mother, daughter, sister, and a friend and relative of several people who struggle with addiction.
S B
May 3, 2017
I am so sorry for the family's loss. You may find comfort through prayer and God's loving promise found at John 6:40.
Barbara Bennett
May 3, 2017
My deepest condolences during this time of grief. You have done a wonderful service by sharing Adam's life story. Praying that many lives are saved through sharing your grief. Gods Blessings to all family and friends.
Kim Milinkovich
May 3, 2017
I did not know Adam. Thank you for sharing his story with the world. As a high school English teacher it is imperative that kids today become aware of how drugs and alcohol can change your life forever. May you find peace at this difficult time to comfort your sorrow.
J D
May 3, 2017
Thank you for sharing your families tragedy in an effort to help others. I know your message is already resonating with many who are struggling with this epidemic. God Bless you and your family!
Scott Schumacker
May 3, 2017
David & Family,
I'm deeply sorry to read about your loss of Adam and truly humbled by your honesty to tell Adam's story. Your story of Adam reminds me of my son, Connor, a sopmore at University of Akron, who has similar ambitions and is fueled by some of the same trappings of, in my opinion, a skewed view of a life well lived! Adam and Connor are like so many other young adults that struggle with the daily pressures of success in their own minds-eye, of others and on social media. Your story offered me courage to take some time to remind my son, and my two other children, of the dangers of opiod's and heroin, and tell them that we have their back, regardless of the obstacles that are placed in front of them! Thank you for sharing Adam's story, which has helped me, and I'm sure, many others to continue talking to family and friends about his ugly epidemic!
Keeping all of you in my prayers,
Scott Schumacker
Babcox Media
M N
May 3, 2017
Thank you for sharing this during your darkest hours...hopefully it will help someone and/or their family and friends deal with this. Please accept my deepest sympathy~
May 3, 2017
Thank for Sharing Adam,s story,may God comfort you ..Yes Adam is Helping Others ! Be at Pease,Adaam is ,Hold tight To The Love ...
JC
May 3, 2017
So sorry for your family's loss. This is such a devastating and traumatic situation that our communities are in.
I - too - have lost a loved one in the prime of his life a few years back to this same scenario..When I see a young person in the obituaries anymore - it is highly likely that they have succumb to the same horrible killer.
Unfortunately, most people nowadays have been touched by this tragic situation. Please know that you are not alone. This has touched so many...
I pray for your healing and "Thank You" for your openness in regards to your beloved son's death. This issue needs to be open and not swept under the rug. It is the only way that we will eventually, God-willing, be able to address and turn this epidemic around.. I admire and respect your courage to do so..
All of us need to be cognizant of this devastation that is going on around us and the sons and daughters that we are losing in this battle. We are losing a lot of older adults as well. May God be with you.
May 3, 2017
God bless your family for telling this story. Although I don't know you, my heart cries for you and anyone who loses the battle with addiction.
Anonymous
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