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Orion STRONG Obituary

STRONG, Orion Elijah Passed away on November 10, 2014 peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends. He was age 16. Orion is survived by his mother, Kyla Strong-Castro, his father, Jared Wetherington, his brother, Bodhi Strong and his sister, Ivie Strong. Orion fought leukemia bravely and became a hero to many people. He donated his body to UCSF Hospital for research into a cure for others. There will be a potluck memorial service this Saturday, November 22, 2014 from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Monte Rio Community Center. For more info, please follow him on Facebook "Hope for Orion."

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

Published by Press Democrat from Nov. 19 to Nov. 20, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Orion STRONG

Sponsored by His Loving Family.

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Patty Grimm

November 13, 2024

Sweet Angel Orion.... You can´t imagine how many times I think about you... when Leslie & I reminisce about Guerneville School, you are always on mentioned. I often wonder what you´d be doing for a living.... a doctor??? an environmentalist?? the Executive Director of a non profit??? Sky was the limit for you! But we will just have to settle with feeling your presence and love coming at us from the sky. Won´t ever forget ya buddy!!! Love love love!!

Patty Grimm

November 13, 2022

It´s been years but your presence remains. Your incredible hugs surround me with thoughts & love for you. Love you buddy!!!

David English

November 13, 2021

What I feel about remembering this young man today, after time has passed is that he was Family. He showed me personally by his own convictions how he loved Life and those around him.
He encouraged people while not judging and that he knew about Love and many things a person of his age normally wouldn't act or say.
Family is important today, as it was then. Communication is reaching out and not letting a day go by in days, weeks, months and years left unsaid.
I find it sad that if Orion was still alive today, would his smile, his voice be heard as it was then? In this Life and for those that remained on earth after he left, what have we learned that he hoped for so much. Family and friends keep in touch and do not take lightly the bonds of relationships is what we do to keep them alive. Not look back in regret, in taking the time to reach out to others before it's no longer possible. As I miss Orion today, I find I love and miss Family as well. Orion's Legacy was never forget.

Rebecca Guinther

November 13, 2020

Always in our hearts... Thank you for everything you gave us. Truly a gift! Always and forever!

David English

November 13, 2020

Orion in your short young life, the most impressive thing that stands out is you understood Unconditional Love! You were not selfish and you didn't close doors on people. You accepted people for who they are and didn't try to change them. Your heart was pure and not like many adults who lost their innocence, compassion and love for one another. I know you are with our Heavenly father looking down with your big smile wishing peace among all you know and love. You are an example of what a good person should be like in this world and are sorely missed here.

David English

November 11, 2016

Orion is a child of God, sent down for a brief moment of time. He was given to his mother to experience this joy that was also freely given to anyone who knew him. But I know that even though he may no longer walk on this earth, he lives. His warm smile can be felt when the Sun arises each day and you can see a reminder in the Sky each night. I know your in Heaven looking down, with your grandma right besides you and others around. I can smile myself when I look up, know I'll see you again, along with friends.

Vincent R

November 10, 2016

Its 2 years today buddy, and I still haven't forgotten and I'll never forget. You were my best friend, please rest well today. You earned it.

Paisley Rousseau

March 28, 2016

Orion, you are the brightest star in the sky to me, whenever i look up, i dont look for the big dipper, i look for you hanging out in your belt
I will always love you, i will always think of you, and i will always have the best laugh because of you
I love you little brother, now and always
~Big Sissy

Kathy Agustsson

January 4, 2015

Orion.....you may be the brightest angel in heaven, but you still brighten my day on earth......I will never forget the things you said and did while here that impacted so many people ...like me.... And you wanted to do something heroic to change the,world.........well for me your smile in the midst of adversity was heroic and I will never forget it.....you will live forever in the hearts of everyone who knew you OR of you......thank you Orion for sharing yourself and your journey with all of us. ...

Averil Walker

January 3, 2015

From the very lovely Scottish Borders, UK
Orion, you continue to inspire people around the world. Because of your courage, I face my illness, with hope in my heart...not fear.
God bless you on your journey through the heavens x

December 12, 2014

I pray for your family everyday...I pray that they can feel your presence in heaven and that the know you now live as a true hero.
We all love you, Orion.

Janet

December 11, 2014

Your love continues to be felt around the world, Orion. You a pure Angel.

Paula Thomas

December 11, 2014

FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA: WE KEEP ALL ORION'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS IN THOUGHT AND PRAYERS. HE IS MISSED, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. MAY HE R.I.P.

December 10, 2014

From Caracas, Venezuela, we follow Orion illness. We continue pray for him a his family. God Bless all friends & Family.

kelly Dungan

December 10, 2014

My Dear Fighter, I joined your support page because you were the same age as my sons. From day one you were an amazing inspiration. I prayed so hard everyday for you and was heartbroken to read of your loss. Now I pray for your family, their peace, and comfort. Thank you for sharing your fight, strong words, and way beyond your years wisdom and insight. Your beautiful heart and giving soul will never be forgotten. Good bye sweet young man, friend to all. I vow to do good deeds in your name.

Mickey Wells

December 9, 2014

Orion. Thank you for letting us be a part of your life and now your death!! You are truly my hero????

Melissa Magana

December 9, 2014

Dear Orion,
I wanted to send you a christmas card so here it is. You are still here, not in the flesh, but in the spirit. I truly believe you are guiding all of us to be strong, like you.

alida nicholson

December 9, 2014

you touched so many lives ever where you will always be a hero

Stephanie Cruz

December 9, 2014

Your strength always put a smile on my face, your smile always gave me strength. I always looked forward to your everyday posts all the way from Texas. Your will wanting to help others even after death touches my heart so much. I'm happy you got your wish. RIP precious ????????

Linda Smith

December 9, 2014

Your light will shine forever in everyone you have touched

Janet Fitzgerald

December 9, 2014

Orion is eternal, he lives on in spirit all over the universe. He has touched so many lives, his message is clear and pure and Love. Forever, timeless. Namaste Orion and your family, and all those who love you.

jess

December 9, 2014

RIP

Deborah Suta

December 9, 2014

Orion, you continue to live on as an example to my students. Always so easy to share your attitude and love of life...God bless...

December 9, 2014

You are such an inspiration to so many. You will live in so many hearts forever! Rest on peace angel!

Patty Hanenberg

December 9, 2014

Your spirit is an eternal light and once seen shall never be the same. Thank you Orion for touching my life .

Musette

December 9, 2014

Glad to have known you! The love and friendship you have shown to so many while you were here is an inspiration for every one to be a kinder better person. I will think of you every time I look up in the night time sky and see a star...

Pam

December 9, 2014

Orion, your light will shine forever!!!

December 9, 2014

Thank you Orion for being an inspiration to me, I will be forever grateful! Peace and Love go with you, and also to all of your loved ones you leave .

Lavinia Finland

December 8, 2014

Dear Orion, you are now in a place without pain and suffering! You are now safe and happy in heaven! My prayers go now for the family, especialy for your mother, may God give you strainght and faith that one day you will meet again with Orion in heaven!
You are a hero Orion! your life was touching lives here in Finland also!

DARCY LEONARD

December 8, 2014

REST IN PEACE ORION YOU HAVE BECOME A VERY SPECIAL HERO TO ALL AND GAVE HOPE TO THOSE WHO HAD NO HOPE LEFT. YOU TAUGHT OTHER TO FIGHT HARD AND BECOME HEROES THEMSELVES. YOU ARE OUR HERO HERE.

kimberly siegrist

December 8, 2014

You may be gone but you definitely will never be forgotten. I never met you in person but for someone I never met you were and will always remain such an inspiration and hero in my eyes. Your legacy will live on in all of those who's lives you touched in one way or another ?

Margaret Hull

December 8, 2014

ORION,I FOLLOWED YOUR STORY ON FACEBOOK AND ALTHOUGH WE NEVER MET I FELT LIKE I KNEW YOU ALL OF YOUR LIFE.I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND I KNOW THEY WILL CHERISH THE MEMORIES THEY HAVE OF YOU.R.I.P

Diana Landers

December 8, 2014

You were a strong young man.. R.I.P

Irene Domena

December 8, 2014

Still praying for your family ..! Orion i learned so much from you to always be strong n will never forget the day you left this earth it was my birthday ..! May you rest in the peace of the Lord..!

December 8, 2014

You're beautiful.

Forever and always.

Vicki Elmer

December 8, 2014

I deeply appreciated being a small part of your journey. I read every post. I loved your bravery in the battle. A lesson for us all. I had an only son born with a severe heart defect. He was chronic off & on, had many surgeries, including a pace maker. He died @ 10 yrs old. My heart goes out to your mom & sibs. I know that you are at Peace now. I will pray for your family. THX again for laughter through tears. I will always remember you, Orion for you were so very STRONG!

Kathryn Fishburne

December 8, 2014

RIP sweet boy.

Jesy Miller

December 8, 2014

You will be forever in our memories and forever in our hearts you were a huge inspiration to many people. Rest in peace.

Alisha Coleman

December 8, 2014

Followed Orion on the FB page and wanted to stop by to say I'm proud of him and thinking of and praying for the family

Mara

December 8, 2014

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Shannon Clemans

December 8, 2014

Orion will forever be an inspiration to so many to notice people in a crowd that may need a friendly smile or a kind word! What a wise young man! Much love and prayers for your family. Such a wonderful angel watching from heaven??

Ashley Thomas

December 8, 2014

Rip true hero. You brighten many people's life's in your darkest days.

December 8, 2014

Orion may you fly with the best and be out of pain My prayers go out to your family and friends and siblings I saw how your brother and sister stayed with you through everything....your out of pain and you can run and have a great time....I'll meet ya when i get there....I thank your Family for sharing the story of your life...
FLY HIGH BUDDY.....
FROM THE CORTEZ FAMILY IN CHOWCHILLA CALIFORNIA...

peggy gajewski

December 8, 2014

I have no Doubt That your Beautiful Orion Is Living In Gods Paradise , He is surrounded by so much Beauty and peace and love, Your precious Boy Will No Longer Know pain and suffering , He who believes in the lord Shell Have Eternal Life , Orion Is such an Amazing Soul, God Bless you all

December 8, 2014

Orion our hero you showed me what an amazing community we have around us and how every one pulled together for you and your family. I am so sorry your life was cut so short. You are truly an amazing soul and will live on in every single one of us. Love , Vanessa

Crystal Johnson

December 8, 2014

Rest In Peace Orion may you fly high and forever smile that lovely smile

Sara

December 8, 2014

Orion,
Your bravery and kindness touched my life. You will always be remembered. May God bless your family until they see you again. Rest easy sweet boy.

Heather Auer

December 8, 2014

Just by you being you, dear Orion, the world knows what it means to stand strong. Rest in peace.

Ilene smith

December 8, 2014

Orion may your warrior part of you, may your desire to help others in need, may your smiles an ambition carry us all who are left in awe of your fight to survive. We love u an rest in peace. Will be praying for your family to find strength an love rest in peace shining light

Elizabeth Webster

December 8, 2014

RIP , Orion , you've touch so many lives.

robin paddock

December 8, 2014

dear hero and teacher,you were so brave and taught us so much!your zest for life showed on your face,you will never be forgotton,always in the hearts of those who loved you,even those of us who never mknew you except for the net,we felt like you were part of our family.

Elizabeth Petasek

December 8, 2014

Orion was a very strong boy. I'm proud of the strength him & his whole family had/have. My prayers go to the family & friends. I know he'll be watching over everyone he loved. Rest In Peace Orion

December 8, 2014

My thoughts and prayers will continue to go out to your family, Orion. I have no doubt you will be watching down on them from heaven and forever in their hearts!

Kimberly Foody

December 8, 2014

Orion I did not know you personally but I pray for you and your family daily. You will always be an inspiration to those who have leukemia and are fighting daily. My life was changed forever by this disease and following you had given me some peace. You rest with all of our angels and peek in on your family from time to time. God bless you and your family.

December 8, 2014

Orion,

You and I have never met in this life. I only know you from posts and videos on Facebook. Just from this posts and videos I could tell what a BIG and AMAZING person you were (and STill stAR). Though your time here on earth was short, your legacy is long. You have impacted the lives of those whom never even knew. MUch LOVE and prayers are sent your way - into the stars - forver into heaven.

Amber Pavon

December 8, 2014

Thank you, Orion, for that beautiful smile of yours and happiness you brought every day. You are one of the kindest and strongest people I have ever had the honor of knowing. You gave me hope and happiness when I was in a dark place in my life. Thank you so, so much. Rest in peace, friend. We love you.

Jennifer Arnold

December 8, 2014

Orion... I have never met you in person but you have touched my heart in so many ways. I feel as if I was right along with you on your journey feeling everything you felt along the way. You should know that your wish to be a hero came true... you are my hero Orion I will forever hold you near and dear to my heart.

December 8, 2014

Orion,
May you rest in peace my hero. You taught me much, which I will draw upon in the course of my life. Thank you you beautiful angel.

Teresa Strawn

December 8, 2014

I wish I would have had the opportunity to meet you in person. What a blessing you are to your family. You have touched hearts all over the world and you probably didn't even have a clue. You left a huge Mark in this world.

Kari Cintron

December 8, 2014

I was so sad to hear the news of your passing but knew that it was your time. I know you're in heaven and no longer suffering. God bless you and your family.

December 8, 2014

Everytime i saw you it was with a smile on your face. Thanks to all the friendship and laughter you brought in your time here. You are missed

brooke zucha

December 8, 2014

Such a beautiful soul who did more in his short time here than most will do in a "lifetime". Thank you for inspiring us to do better, realize the important things in life, and make a difference in the world. And thank you to your wonderful family for allowing us to share in your beautiful amazing life!

Nicole Schnabel

December 8, 2014

Orion, you were amazing and an inspiration to so many. Taken away far too soon. You will always be remembered. Kyla, love you and you are in my thoughts always.

Earick Higgins

December 8, 2014

Rip Orion,I may not have known you personally and i want to thank you for how you always stayed posotive through it all.

Lillian Aff

December 8, 2014

Peace and love.

Lindsey Miller

December 8, 2014

Rest in peace Orion

Lillian Aff

December 8, 2014

I love you buddy.

Jessica Manzo

December 8, 2014

Peace <3

Michele Thomson

November 26, 2014

Rest In Peace Orion... I will be praying for your family.

November 26, 2014

Orion, I did not personally know you, or your family, but I have written you a few messages on your Facebook page. I know you fought hard. The treatment for Acute Leukemias are horrific! I am so, so sorry you lost the battle but Leukemia is a very, very difficult disease. I lost my husband to Acute Lymphoytic Leukemia ("ALL"). He was 39 years old. I am very, very sympathetic to cancer. I will be praying for your family. As for you precious child, your pain and suffering is over. You are now with God. Rest In Peace...

donna besner

November 25, 2014

I was so happy to learned about and how strong you were andstill are in gods arms.you have a bbeautiful family and I see that they love you dearly.rip orion and glad to know about you.

tashaq dtyer

November 25, 2014

You are in my prayers! RIH

Garrie Borden

November 25, 2014

I met Orion in Rhode Island. Sue brought him to a craft party, and he was the only child there, but he had a great time with the adults. I wish I could put in words what I'm feeling right now -- so many emotions for him and for his surviving family who are so brave and strong. Thank you for the reminder to live life to its fullest every day.

Casey & Michele Durnil

November 25, 2014

Orion, you are gone, but NEVER forgotten. Our hearts are broken right now, but we will never forget the joy. PEACE and Blessings to the family and may the Lord guide you through this loss.

Theresa Shireman

November 24, 2014

Rest in peace you fought so hard a true warrior.you will be missed.

Maria Smilios

November 24, 2014

What a spectacular young man whose message, I hope, will inspire those into making the world a better place. Fly high, young man.

Barb

November 23, 2014

I had the distinct privilege of meeting Orion 2 times. Both times I felt his energy imprinted his kindness and gentleness upon my spirit. A kindered Spirit, Orion is and was. A warrior and Light being he will always be. My prayers and blessings to the Strong-Castro family and all the extended family. We may have lost a hero on this plane, but the spiritual plane gained a wonderful soul.

Kathryn Tuttle

November 22, 2014

Orion will be missed by many ,it's amazing how many lives he has touched.He was a good friend to many.see you in the stars everynight stay strong Orion

Christine Marks

November 22, 2014

Rest in Peace brave warrior!! You fought a good fight. Peace be with your loving family.

Alex Rodriguez

November 22, 2014

Orion I never met you. But we walked with you and Now you will be flying. With my son Steven Rodriguez. I hope you two stay close. To the Family. ... I know the pain of losing a son. And it's one no one should endure. My heart is with you. Sending love.

TERESA Strong Dufrene

November 21, 2014

There are no words to relieve the depth of pain and grief that the loss of a son brings. Heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you. May you gain strength and understanding as his light continues to shine through you and your family. (Orion is the brightest and most beautiful of the winter constellations.)

rigzin TROMGE

November 21, 2014

My thoughts are with you all.

Sandi Pointer

November 21, 2014

MY HERO, the bravest person I've known, Orion the Strong, you will be in my heart forever.

Christie Wray

November 20, 2014

Orion Strong, a name that fit the boy to a T. By far the bravest person I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. A very wise young man, a very old soul. Orion touched so many hearts with his sweet smile and caring personality. Orion Strong, a hero, that will not be forgotten in this community. Peace be with you Orion and to all of those who love you, light and healing.

Fiona Luke

November 20, 2014

I never got the privilege to meet you, but sure knew a lot about you. I have a very good sweet friend that is in heaven now , she just left us not to long ago, actually you might know her, her name is Elizabeth. I love and miss her dearly please give her a big hug for me. Have fun with her she is a character. Thank you for your strength and your simplicity to life. You really have brought a lot to my world.

Michele - Shelly Armold

November 20, 2014

Orion is and will always be a Hero!!!!! he was truth, Love and the Light, you will be very Missed but will see you again, was walking the Dogs this morning and looked to the sky and saw Orion's Belt and thought of him and Kharma, Kage, Bo, Ivy, and everyone else who this young man has touched. sending all my love your way, Kansas is just devastated. Just know he is with the Angles now and he will be someone's guild. LOVE LOVE you all

Lourdes Maurer-Guy

November 20, 2014

Although I never met you in person, I was very touched by your family through your Facebook posts. I am very sorry for your great loss. Sending Love, Light and Prayers to Orion and your wonderful family. <3

Jackie

November 20, 2014

We never met, yet you touched my heart! You were a kind and brave young man!

Bonnie Mackenzie

November 20, 2014

The brightest star in the sky! So much love, may you rest easy young warrior! You are my Hero!

Molley McCartney

November 20, 2014

I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Orion and only learned of his battle a few months ago, but he seemed like an extraordinary young man. My heart and prayers are with the family, as they have been since the moment I came across his FB page. ??

Tracy Mancini

November 20, 2014

The world was a better place with you in it and when I see the clouds I will think how lucky heaven is to have you now and I will smile.

David Bush

November 20, 2014

Much love and thanks to Orion for being so strong in a time of transition to the next phase of his eternal career.

Dave Abram

November 20, 2014

Much love, miss. And to the ones left behind, stay up. <3

Judi Morgan

November 20, 2014

I love you Orion

Susan Bullard

November 20, 2014

Orion was a free spirit beyond his years. He spread so much love with his words, wisdom, caring and of course his infectious smile. He will be missed by everyone he has touched through out the world. Your little butterfly has spread his wings.

Juliana Cleary

November 20, 2014

may you be well, may you be happy.

America & Eric Elcock

November 20, 2014

Orion you will be missed by all. You were truly an inspiration and will always be remembered. Orion you were an amazing young man, well beyond your years and you are greatly loved! God be with you til we meet again. ~

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