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William Rice Bracken

William Bracken Obituary

WILLIAM RICE BRACKEN - On the 28th of December 2008, we lost an incredibly talented and loving son. William Rice Bracken was born on the 18th of May 1992 in Houston, Texas. While too short in years, his life was full in spirit. He spent most waking hours devoted to his younger brother Hank and his inspiring art portfolio. Will was an avid reader, music fan and also loved to see (and then critique) movies with his family. Will had a passion for serving those less fortunate and enjoyed volunteering his time. We all miss his kind heart and witty conversation. Will is survived by his loving parents, Geoff and Shelley Bracken, and his by brother, Hank. He is also survived by his grandparents, Lewis and Shelley Brazelton, Barbara Bracken and Stuart Bracken; his aunts and uncles, David Bracken, Thomas Bracken, Lewis and Cindie Brazelton, West and Mary Brazelton, Fred and Jessica Brazelton, and Gary and Mary Swanson; and by his twelve cousins. The memorial service will be conducted at eleven o'clock in the morning on Saturday, the 3rd of January, at Grace Bible Church, 1111 West 14th Street in the Heights, where Pastor West Brazelton will officiate. Prior to the service, the family will have gathered for a private interment ceremony. Immediately following the memorial service, the family will receive friends during a reception at venue to be announced in the printed service bulletin. In lieu of usual remembrances, the family respectfully requests your consideration of contributing, in Will's memory, to the Gateway Academy, 812 Gillette St., Houston, TX, 77019.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle from Jan. 1 to Jan. 2, 2009.

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Doug Reed

January 14, 2009

Geoff and Shelley: such sad news about Will. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God be with you.

Carol Stewart

January 13, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,
Prayers are with you as you have suffered the loss of Will. DavidTod has been especially mindful of Hank during this time and all the days of play at your home. We are so very sorry and know that you loved him so and look forward to our meeting someday again in Heaven Home. Carol, David, Mary, Sophia and DavidTod Stewart.

Daphne Butler

January 8, 2009

Geoff and Shelley and Hank, We send you and your wonderful families our deepest sympathy. You are in our hearts and prayers during this very sad time. With much love, Daphne (Murray) and Rawls Butler

Ken Leith

January 8, 2009

Geoff and Shelley: our deepest heartfelt condolences on the loss of Will. We have you and your family in our prayers. Know that your friends are there for you at difficult times like these.

God bless,

Ken Leith

John Bogle

January 8, 2009

Geoff- I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your son, Will. It sounds like he was a special boy and son, and I cannot imagine how hard this is for you and your family. I wish you all strength and love that will help you through such a difficult time.

Jim Buck

January 8, 2009

Though many years and miles separate us, Geoff, some bonds can never be broken. I feel fortunate to have come to "know" your Will through the beautiful thoughts expressed in these pages. Clearly, he was a remarkable young man of whom you, Shelley and Hank will always be proud. I pray that Will's bonds, like yours, will never break - no matter the passage of time or fading of memory. The Buck family joins the entire Haverford School community, and countless others, in grieving this loss.

Jeff Kern

January 8, 2009

Dear Geoff, Shelley, and Hank,

I am so deeply sadden by Will’s passing. Sitting at my desk looking at Will’s picture, I have been reconnecting with his life since I last spent time with him as a little boy. I see so much of Shelley and you in his smiling face. I have been thinking about our friendship Geoff, we began that journey in the 3rd grade at The Haverford School. While living in San Antonio, I had the chance to spend weekends and holidays with your family. Will was very young and Hank was just born. I remember when I visited how proud and excited you both were of being parents. We would go out for breakfast on Saturday mornings with Will and afterwards throw the football in the backyard. Reading about the incredible young man Will has grown into over the years, has allowed me to catch-up with that little boy. The letter Will wrote is so deeply profound and enlightening. Will is able to see the difference one person’s compassion for another can make in this complicated world. I plan to share his words with the people in my life, to ensure his wishes and vision to unite in order to help those less fortunate, is honored. Will’s words of tough love and hope have lifted my spirits, reminding me to be a better person to all those I cross paths with in life. Will’s amazing insight into life’s ironies is a testament to you, Shelley and Hank, the forces that shaped his mind, faith, and love for people. Will’s spirit is loud and clear, and his light shines bright on all he has touched. Geoff, Shelley, Hank, and both your families are in our prayers. Your friend in life: Jeff, Diane, Matthew and my parents Barbara and Paul Kern.

Eulalia King

January 7, 2009

Dear Brackens Family,
I was so deeply grieved at the news of sweet Will's passing! I met Will in August 2008 at Yellowstone Academy. He came to the school to assist the staff and teachers in preparing our classrooms for the new school year. Fortunately for me, Will, volunteered to assist me! He was charming, sweet, interesting to talk to, and interested in listening. Will Bracken was an exceptional young man! He had the heart of an artist and deep compassion for people!
Words are inadequate to express my deepest condolences to you. You are in my prayers,

Melinda Peto Delmonico

January 7, 2009

Shelley and Geoff,

I have you in my prayers. I can't imagine the pain you must be experiencing. I am certain that your son brought you a lot of joy and wonderful memories. God bless you both!

Charner and Kelly Bolin

January 7, 2009

Shelley, Geoff and Hank!...Not a moment has gone by that we have not all been thinking about you...I can totally see Will sitting in heaven working his magic on the big guy!...We should all see big changes here on earth and...soon! Know that we would do anything to make this easier!! Sending all of you lots of Love! charner, kelly, cullum and mabry

Amy and Neil Leibman

January 6, 2009

Geoff and Shelley,
Please know that we are sending our prayers and thoughts your way. Will had such a wonderful smile and spirit. He is truly missed by so many who were fortunate to have known him. He will always be with you. God bless your family.

Fred and Jessica Brazelton

January 6, 2009

The following letter was written by Will Bracken in 2008 and was read by Geoff at the funeral. It captures Will's incredible heart and is a powerful reminder that serving others is what is truly most important in life.

"Ever since I was young, I saw all people as equals deserving the same rights and privileges as everyone else. As I grew, I began to see the inequality in the world. I saw people treat others as though they were somehow lower than them, as if they were dirt. I never understood why someone would treat another like this. It was hard for me to come to terms with this inequality and injustice all around us. I wondered why no one stood up and said something, or why no one was trying to change this unjust situation. I decided that if no one else would do anything about our problems, I would. Everyone is special if you take the time to look for what they have to offer.

People get so caught up in their chores and activities that sometimes they begin to lose sight of what makes a person valuable. Most people won’t take the time to look at a homeless man and search for who he is, where he comes from, and where he wants to go. Every person is special and different and this is what makes us truly wonderful. People all claim they recognize this, but then why do we have those who care only for themselves? We need to share our love, for it is infinite if we choose to harness it for the greater good. I have so much hope in people. I have been let down time and time again, but I have seen the good. I have seen hope in these men and women’s eyes. I then know that we can help. We’re not just wasting our time, trying to cleanse our consciences, going and volunteering at a shelter or wherever we choose to help. These people are unlucky enough to be less fortunate than you are in terms of wealth and opportunity, but they have just as much love to give and the same amount of soul you and I have. They care that you care. They really do and I’ve seen it. Sometimes I think this is the only thing that keeps me going. It’s the only thing that confirms that, in fact, I’m not wasting my time. I have power in a world gone crazy. I see this and I will use it. I will change someone’s life. Give them hope. Evoke power and the gift of happiness in them so that they can and will pass it along. We can all help each other. We are powerful together."

William Rice Bracken

January 6, 2009

Genny Winter

January 6, 2009

Geoff and Shelley, my deepest condolences to you during this very sad time. Your family is truly special and you are all in my thoughts and prayers. The Gateway Academy is here to support you however we can during the next few months. Please know we are here for you.

Stephen & Diane Everett and Family

January 6, 2009

Dear Geoff and Family,

We can not begin to fathom your loss and grief. Knowing God's plan sometimes separates friends, family and loved ones we have faith he will ultimately reunite us all. Eventually, we hope to meet your son, Will. In the meantime, you, Shelley and Hank are in out thoughts and prayers.

Love from the Northwest,

Rick and Jeanne Craft

January 6, 2009

Geoff, Shelley and Hank,

We are sadddened to hear of your loss. While not having met your son, his love of life and serving others is a testament to his gifts to others while here on earth.

John Hammerschmidt

January 6, 2009

There are people in Pennsylvania who need you to know that you can always call on them. Distance may separate us, but true friendships are for life. We are all so very sorry and only wish we could be there for support. May God Bless you Geoff, Shelly and Hank.

Anonymous

January 5, 2009

Dear Geoff and Shelley,
I grieve with you in your time of loss. I pray that day by day your recovery will take place and that God will walk with you and hold your hand and when you are really sad that He will carry you in his arms and comfort you.
Will's light is still shining and has touched more people than you know.

Paul Kim

January 5, 2009

I am so sorry to hear about Will. I remember his genuine enthusiasm for learning to play violin here at Woodberry. He was wonderfully imaginative and curious. I enjoyed our pleasant weekly conversations during lessons. Warmest of wishes to you over the coming months...

Barbara Homrighaus

January 5, 2009

I did not know your son, but we lost our son to cancer five years ago and I want to express my deepest condolences to you and your family. Your son seems like a loving young man and I know he is safe in God's arms. Tough times may come but remember you are never alone. You will get through this and you will see your son once again.

Laura Vaughan

January 5, 2009

I remember Will from St. Luke's Day School. I had the privilege of teaching Hank and of getting to know how special your family was. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May the love of family and friends support you through this difficult time.

Kathy Arcidiacono

January 5, 2009

Dearest Shelley and Geoff,

Our hearts are truly broken and there are just no words to express the sadness we all feel. Will was such a bright, talented, funny young man and most importantly, a wonderful friend to all! We have so many fond memories of him over the years...the "best" birthday parties ever, the many trips to Hunt, summer in Coronado, lots of mischief and fun!! Our house was always full of love and laughter when Will was around. He will be forever missed by all of us!!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you each and every day.

With love,

Kathy and James Arcidiacono
Jamie, Andrew, Will and Emily

Zaid, Marguerite and Shahem Barazi

January 5, 2009

It is so very difficult to find the words to express our sadness.
Will had a beautiful spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. We feel blessed to have have known him and will always remember his laughter and his kindness.
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Will Borden

January 5, 2009

Dear Bracken Family
I am extremely upset to hear about your loss of Will. I lived down the hall from him at Woodberry last year and I remember all of the stories he shared with me to help pass the hours of the weekends. He truly was a remarkable kid and I wish you all the best in this troubled time.

Margaret Keith

January 4, 2009

Please know that all of you are in my prayers. I knew Will from Kinkaid...it seems like everyone who knew Will has the same sweet memories. As long as we remember Will he will not be forgotten.

Ellen Alcorn Breedlove

January 4, 2009

Shelly:
I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and payers.

Jackie Cathriner

January 4, 2009

Dear Brackens and Brazeltons,
We want you to know how much we love your entire family. I've heard that there is no greater pain than losing a child and the expression used for it is "Mary's sorrow". Cheri and I were half way through reading a book called "The Shack" by Wiiliam Young, when we got the news about Will. The book explains how our loving God can let a parent loose a beloved child. It is a life changing read, and makes me feel confident that your precious son is in a much better place!
We are always here for you,
Love,
Jackie Cathriner
And love from Bill, Annie and Virginia

Ruth and Kirk Hancock

January 4, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff, Hank, and all of the Brazeltons,
You all are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so so sorry.
Our love always.

Sara Dodd-Spickelmier

January 4, 2009

Shelley and Geoff -
Please know that your family and you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so very saddened to hear of your loss.
Love, Sara

Lindsay Henry

January 4, 2009

Dear Bracken & Brazelton families,

I believe that I only met Will one time- at one of the GBC dinners at your home. However, even to this day, I have such a strong recollection of his outgoing and friendly personality. I remember having a conversation with Will during the dinner and as I left your home, thinking how such a "young" (at the time he was 11 or 12) boy could be so mature and engage so easily with adults. To be sure he was a credit to the upbringing from his family, but also the Lord's work in his life. It was a blessing to have been acquainted with him -- if even for a brief season in his life.

I can't even begin to understand your grief, but will grieve with you and will pray that our Lord will bring you peace and comfort.

With much love, Lindsay Henry

Sheri, William & Anabelle Reade

January 3, 2009

We are so saddened by the loss of Will and struggle to find words to express our grief. We pray that God will guide you and comfort you. We will always remember Will's smile and laughter. He was a bright and witty young man and my children and I were blessed to have known him.

CATHEY GRAHAM

January 3, 2009

DEAR SHELLEY AND LEW, MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY OVER THE DEATH OF YOUR GRANDSON , WILL..WE ARE HOLDING POSITIVE THOUGHTS FOR ALL OF YOU..SINCERE LOVE
CATHEY (SPEER) AND HARRY
GRAHAM

Leone Reeder

January 3, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,
You are in our hearts and in our prayers. We send love to each of you.

Leone and Jim Reeder

Melissa Butler

January 3, 2009

To the Bracken Family,
I wish to extend my sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Will. I met Will when he and Geoff stopped by our office after ski camp in summer '07. I remember Will as a bright and enthusiastic young man. May God's love and peace be with you all.

Sincerely,
Melissa Butler
Gardere Austin

Kirby Walker

January 3, 2009

Dear Will,
I will never forget all of the great times we had together in the middle school. I miss those days and wish we could have spent more time together after that. I am so happy I got to know you and your great personality. You were such an amazing friend to me. Every time I was down, you would somehow cheer me up. I will never ever forget every single conversation we had on the phone together almost every night. We had such great times together and I hope to see you someday so we can talk about all of the incredible times we had together. I miss you and will never forget all of the great memories!

Love and miss you so much, Kirby

Jack, Judy & Kendall Hollenshead

January 3, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff & Hank,
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son Will. May the Lord hold you close and comfort you during this difficult time.
Jack, Judy & Kendall Hollenshead

N Nolan

January 3, 2009

Though I did not know Will well and was not his teacher, he always made me smile or laugh when we crossed paths in the halls of Kinkaid. I am saddened and heartbroken by the news. my thoughts are with him, his family, and friends.

Bill Cathriner

January 3, 2009

Dear Shelly and Geof,
Jean and I are saddened to learn of Will's sudden passing. Although we didn't know Will we heard that he was a talented and charming young man. May the Lord bless you and give you strength at this time.

God bless Shelly Geof and Hank,
Bill and Jean Cathriner

Gregg Thompson

January 3, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff and Hank,

We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved Will. Please know that we have you in our thoughts and prayers. Much love from Carol and Gregg Thompson

JoAnna (Butler) Hurley

January 2, 2009

Dear Geoff, Shelley, Hank and Brazelton family,

I am so very saddened by the passing of Will. Please know that you will all be in my thoughts and prayers through this very difficult time. May you find the comfort in knowing that he is resting peacefully with our Lord. May God bless you all.
Much love,

karen rambin

January 2, 2009

Shelley, Geoff and Hank: The Rambin family sends their love and retains all the fond memories of growing up next to Will. - Special Will. Our hearts are broken. We love you. Howard, Karen, Joe and Leven

Caroline Serrett

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelley, Hank and Geoff,
I am so sorry for your tragic loss of Will. Know that I care for your family, I am thinking of you, and pray for God to carry you during this most difficult time.

CeCelia O'Connell

January 2, 2009

To the Bracken Family, Although I did not have Will in my third grade class, I remember him as a very happy and positive child. We will miss him very much! He was always so helpful and kind to me as a teacher. We will miss him greatly. My prayers are with you! CeCelia O'Connell

Sharon Johnson

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,
I am so sorry about your loss of Will. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Sharon Johnson, Speech-Language Pathologist

Zak and Cindy Elgamal

January 2, 2009

Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,
Mere words cannot express our deep sadness for you and your family at this time. May the Lord hold you close in His arms and comfort you as only He can do.

Stacy, Elle and Alex Florescu

January 2, 2009

Dear Bracken Family,

Elle and Alex always came home with fond stories of Will's incredible sense of humor and ability to entertain those around him. I especially remember a day in middle school when Will held court one morning before finals helping alleviate everyone's stress! He was an inspiration for individuality, courage, wit, independence and compassion. I am so glad my children had the pleasure and honor of his friendship.

Barbara Lingenfelder

January 2, 2009

Dear Bracken Family,
I am still in shock after learning of Will's sudden passing. I remember his sweet smile and what a nice, curious, and intelligent student he was in my fourth grade class. He brightened many of my days and the world will be darker without Will in it. May your memories of Will comfort you during this difficult time.

Eva Littman

January 2, 2009

I was a classmate of Will's and was only recently becoming a friend to him. He may not be with us physically but he will linger in our minds and souls, never truly leaving us. I will always remember him as a free, kind, and generous spirit. His funny remarks on the most random objects, and how his face seemed to light up at the smallest of jokes. I wish I could offer more than a few small words, because there are no amount of words that could express how Will could be well... Will. I am grateful to have known such a special person. Goodbye Will, I will never forget you.

Gib Chapman

January 2, 2009

Hello All: We are so sorry for your loss. While Emily will be joining you tomorrow; Nick, Wilson and I are here in New York and thinking about you so far away. I am at a loss for words but hope to see you soon. Warmly, Gib

Michael Jones

January 2, 2009

Geoff, Shelly, and Hank, I know the experience of such a profound loss. I pray that you will find peace in your hearts and that you will come to understand Will's passing the same as I did when I lost my son. We are all blessed by the love of those with whom we have shared our lives. With love and prayers, Mike and Rosie Jones, and Mariann Cano

Kay Rouse

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelly and Lew,
No words can express my sympathy for you and your family. Just know you all will be surrounded by my prayers during this difficult period.
Much Love,
Kay

Charles, Leslie, Jordan & Emily Smith

January 2, 2009

Dear Geoff, Shelly and Hank,
We have and will continue to pray for you in these difficult days. Our heats break for you and we want you to know that we are trusting God for his peace in your hearts.

Paul Khuri

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelley and Geoff
We are so sorry to learn of Will's passing. We keep you in our prayers in this difficult time. May the Lord give you comfort as always.
Paul and Penelope Khuri

Susan Scotty

January 2, 2009

Dearest Shelley, Geoff, and Hank- I am so saddened by your tragic loss. Please know that my loving thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family.
Love Always, Susan Japhet Scotty

Pam Rameau

January 2, 2009

Dear Bracken Family:
We are all saddened by Will's unexpected passing. Although he was not officially my student, we enjoyed many exchanges. He certainly was a bright and fun-loving young man and he will be missed by his fellow classmates. You remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Regina Shadle

January 2, 2009

Bracken Family,
I am so saddened by your loss. I pray that God wraps his arms around you and your family at this time.

Tammy Braun

January 2, 2009

Geoff and Family -
My prayers are with you all during this time of sorrow. May God comfort you. I'm truly at a loss for words, but just know you're in my thoughts.

James W. Woodruff

January 2, 2009

Lew & Shelley,

As you may remember I lost a 5 year old daughter to an accident in 1980 and only those of us that have been in this situation can comprehend the depth of the grief.

Be sympathetic to those who don't know what else to say but "we know how you feel" as they mean well but are lost for words.

My Missy greeted your Will where in time we will meet them all again.

God bless

Jim

Chris Halloran

January 2, 2009

Dear Geoff,
I was so sorry to hear about Will. I know there is nothing I can say that would be remotely consoling, but my thoughts and prayers are with you, Shelley and Hank as you grieve. I am broken-hearted for you.

Chris

Peter Simione

January 2, 2009

I wish to express my condolences and sympathy for your tragic loss. As a parent I cannot imagine a greater challenge. May God aid and guide you.

Kristen Mullen McMackin

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelly, Geoff and Hank,
My little brother Jay was a friend of Will's. One day I had the opportunity to drive Will to a party about 30 minutes away from our house. All the other boys wanted to cram in with my dad and I felt bad that Will was the only one who would ride with me and my new baby. (Also named Will) Will could not have been more charming! He was so eloquent and his conversation skills were better than most adults I knew. We had a long drive ahead of us, so I asked him about his family. He was so complimentary of all of you. Shelly, I asked if you worked and he said, "Yes, she works very hard, but not outside of the home. She is so kind, patient and loving." He told me about Hank and how much he loved him and that his dad was a really smart and successful attorney. I watched him steal the show in the Kinkaid theater and remember what an outstanding athlete he was. I always kept an eye out for Will. I remember thinking, I hope my son turns out just like you. I am sad we won't be able to see all of the things he might have done. He was a star that was taken too soon. I know one day we will see him again but until then, he will be dearly missed.

Kristen Carter Nerz

January 2, 2009

Shelly, Geoff & Hank,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you and you will be in my daily thoughts and prayers. From what I have read he was a delightful young man and he will be dearly missed. Love, Kristen

Jennifer Henry

January 2, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss and I pray you would feel the Lords peace and comfort during this time! Yall are all in my prayers!

Fernando Aguilar

January 2, 2009

Dear Bracken Family:

Let God be with you in this time of sorrow there is not words of condolence to help to go through this hard time, but god is the only one, to guide you through this hard time.

God Bless You:
Aguilar Family

Walter Snoddy

January 2, 2009

Shelley,

My wife Susie and I were so saddened to hear of the loss of your son Will. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Walter

Stephen Krivda

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelly,
I was sad to have heard of the loss of your son Will. I remember him as a free spirit who loved the arts while at school. When in 6th grade he enjoyed performing for everyone at lunch. We are going to miss Will very much, but he can still be a free spirit in the Heavens.

Robin, Jeff & Schuyler Sher

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelly, Geoff and Hank -

We were all so saddened to hear about Will. The world has lost an incredible person. We all have so many wonderful memories of Will from his middle school days. He was funny, witty, smart, thoughtful, and caring. Please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers.

Diana Wandix-White

January 2, 2009

Mr. and Mrs. Bracken, I have been in constant prayer for your family since hearing of Will's passing. Will will be missed tremendously in class.

Jennifer Nelson

January 2, 2009

Dear Shelly,
I only wish that I had words that could help you in some way. I am deeply sympathetic for your tremendous loss. My heart and prayers are with you. I would have been honored to have known Will, but I am certain that he was a special young man because of his incredible mother--whom I love--and his grandparents. God has you in the palm of His hand and Will by His side.
With great love,
Jennifer (Allen) Nelson

Laura Beavers

January 2, 2009

Shelley, Geoff and Hank,
We love you and care about you deeply. God does too and we pray that God will give you strength and comfort during this very tragic and difficult time. We are so grateful for the time we had with Will out at the dove lease and the chance to be with him. Christopher and Preston especially loved his art and his sense of humor! He will be greatly missed. Our unconditional love, prayer and support are with you now and always.
Love,
Laura, Chris, Christopher and Preston Beavers

Joel Tipton

January 2, 2009

The Tipton family is so sorry for you and your family to have to bear the burden of such a tragic event as this. My heart goes out to you in your tme of mourning. Just know that our prayers are with you.

Joel

Pam, Tom & Kyle McClung

January 2, 2009

Our hearts and thoughts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead. There are no words that can fully express our sympathy.

Pam Jones

January 2, 2009

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Will the year he was in the Three's Class at St. Luke's Day School with Ms. Smith and me. Will was fun and a friend to all. Keeping your family in my prayers.

Bretton Gerard

January 2, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Beth, Schuyler and Baker Tilney

January 2, 2009

We are praying for you at this most difficult of times. Your beautiful son Will, will most certainly be missed by all of us who had the opportunity to know him.

Tim Sturm

January 2, 2009

Dear Geoff and Family, I am very sorry for your loss. I never had the pleasure of meeting William but Geoff spoke so fondly of him I know he blessed your lives and was well-loved. My and my family's prayers are with you in this difficult time. Best Regards, Tim Sturm

Annita Apker

January 2, 2009

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My heart goes out to the family of Will Bracken at this time and in the days ahead. May your memories bring you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

Katie McDonald

January 2, 2009

I am a stranger to your family, deeply saddened by your boy's death. I have worried over him, not knowing who he was. Now I pray for the consolation of your family, knowing Will is safe in the arms of a loving God.

Charlotte Clark-Almand

January 2, 2009

Dear Bracken Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your son. I have never met him, but can only know he was from a beautiful and loving family.
I went to Kinkaid with Shelly, 6th - 8th grade and our Grand parents were best frinds.

A. Long

January 2, 2009

My utmost condolences goes out to the family and friends of Will, at this most grievous time. May the God of all comfort provide the needed strength and courage to endure your great loss.

Skylar Pinchal

January 2, 2009

I never knew Will well,but in the few conversations we shared behind the scenes of "Annie Get Your Gun", he managed to make me laugh, and it was easy to see that he was a bright, talented, and kind person.

Alice Timmins

January 1, 2009

Dearest Shelly and Geoff:
We were very deeply saddened to learn of your family tragedy. I had heard so many wonderful things about Will from the Arcidiacono family over the past few years. I had heard over and over again how funny and cute Will was. I know how loved he was by your entire family. We are thinking of all of you and praying for you as well. Much love, Alice and Jim Timmins

Shayna Melcher

January 1, 2009

Dear Shelly and Geoff -
We are so sorry for your tragic loss and just wanted to let you know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Shayna and Marc Melcher

Greg Brown

January 1, 2009

Dear Shelly, Geoff & Hank,
We are so lucky we got the opportunity to know Will. He was funny, kind and caring. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you. May God find a way to get you through this time of sorrow.
Your friends,
Greg, Linda, Krissy, Kaddy & Carson Brown

Carson Brown

January 1, 2009

Dear Will,
I will never forget going to eachothers ranches and running from the cows with you and your cousins, carpool with Josephine, and us making plays and performing dances for our parents and thinking we would be huge stars someday. I am privileged to say i grew up with you as one of my close friends. I'm sure i will see you someday, and will never forget the fun times we shared.

martha and richard finger

January 1, 2009

Dear Bracken Family,
Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are for your tragedy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Elizabeth Labanowski

January 1, 2009

Shelley, Geoff and Hank, we offer you our deepest prayers and love. Will was the friendliest, kindest and most enthusastic young man, and he has left a huge legacy of love. We are grateful to have known him while he was at Kinkaid. God bless you all. Elizabeth, Paul, and William Labanowski

Robin Littman

January 1, 2009

To the family of Will Bracken,
Please accept our deepest condolensces. Our daughter Eva was a classmate of Will's at ASA and often remarked of his kind and gentle personality. May his memory be a blessing. John, Robin, Rachel and Eva Littman

Lori, Craig, and Austin Teller

January 1, 2009

Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,
You have all our sympathies--our hearts break for you. Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers.

Shelly Moga (and family)

January 1, 2009

Shelly, Geoff and Hank,
I am so sorry to hear about Will. He was such a friendly and caring young man. I cherish the times that we interacted and always knew he would greet me and leave me with a smile on his face. He had an amazing spirit and humor that is truly unforgettable. You are all in my heart and prayers through this difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything at all that I can do to help at this time.

Lilly R

January 1, 2009

I went to school with Will and he always brightened my day. He was the nicest person you could ever meet. He will always be in my memories.

Barbara, Grenville, Hamlet and Austin Lines

January 1, 2009

Dear Shelly, Geoff and Hank,
We are so sorry for the loss of your gorgeous son Will. We will always remember his charming smile, infectious laugh and simply all his brilliance. Please know we are thinking of you and that you are all in our prayers. Much love,

Shara Bumgarner

January 1, 2009

Shelley, Geoff, and Hank,

I am deeply saddened to learn of your tragic loss. May God find ways to carry you through this dark, dark time. My heart goes out to all of you.
Shara Bumgarner

Katie Kennedy

January 1, 2009

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God see you through this difficult time.

Susan Little

January 1, 2009

Dear Shelly, Geoff and Hank,
Will was a wonderful student in first grade who loved learning about geography and places and shared his humor, always making me laugh. My heart is breaking since I learned of his tragic loss this morning. I pray for courage and peace for your family in this time of immense sorrow. May God wrap his arms around you. Will will always live in my heart and I know one day we will see him again.

Danny, Susan and Jay Mullen

January 1, 2009

Dear Geoff, Shelly and Hank: Nothing we could say or write will ever express the loss we all feel with the passing of your beautiful Will. He was a free spirit and a bright flame that lit up the lives of everyone he met. Without him the world is a darker place. Wll was a unique contradiction; polite and irreverant, athletic and artistic, outgoing and introspective. What a wonderful young man. No one could call a football huddle together quite like Will Bracken. We will all miss him.

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