Steven J. Hrtica

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments that take our breath away”. There were so many moments that Steven’s friendship took my breath away.

Steven was my oldest and closest friend of 35 years. We first met in the third grade at Howard Drive Elementary. I was a tomboy and, let’s just say, Steven was not. We were opposites – like oil and vinegar really and I took great pleasure torturing him. I would chase him around until I would corner...

I would like to share something that my father left to our family when he passed. It helps to comfort me when the loss feels strong and remind me that he will always be there with me. I hope that all who loved Steven may find this comforting too.

To My Dearest Family, Some Things I’d Like to Say

First of all to let you know that I arrived okay.
I am writing this from heaven, where I dwell with God above.
Where there’s no more tears of sadness, there is just eternal...

Dear Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I wanted to write some memories I have about Steven and I thought that I had exhausted our camp stories as they are etched in my mind as some of my most vivid and fun recollections. How many cousins get the chance to go to sleep away camp all together. Although unknowing to Michael, Donna, Steven and I it was Circle C Youth Ranch, C standing for Christ. I think we all only heard the ranch part! I remember feeling safe with my family...

I will never forget my friend Steve. He is forever in my heart. I was proud to have him as a friend. The world needs more people Like Steven.

Copy of letter sent to Craig by Steven's Aunt Gia (Gladys)

DEC.27,1906

Dear Craig,

My thoughts are with you tonight.I know when all things are attended to and everyone leaves, you are left alone with the sadness and your memories.

I want to thank you for always being there for Steven, and in the end for me and my family.

I would also like to thank your wonderful family for all they did.Their friendliness and efforts were remarkable and very much...

Dear Vi, Donna & Family,
To let you know you,re thought of in the loss you have to bear,and I hope it helps to ease your sorrow, knowing others care. In Sympathy,
Yolanda

Dear Aunt Vi,Uncle Elliott, Michael and Donna,
We are so sorry to hear about Steven. We lit a candle and said the Our Father when Mom told us. We remember going to Steven's house for his 40th Birthday Party and Steven and Craig had so many presents there for us and it wasn't even our birthdays. We are so happy for that time spent together.We Love you and we love to hear the funny stories Mom tells us about when you were all kids together.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Steven,
You are one of my most favourite people I have ever crossed paths with.You loved me and Matt as soon as you met us - you told us you thought we were such a gift to you. I miss you so much that my heart hurts...I wish I got to say so many more things to you...AND, you had THE best giggle ever, by the way! You were so full of life, and I remember so many special times in San Fran, and when you came to BC, and hours over the phone while I went to UBC... Craig, thank you so very much...

Craig, Viola, Michael, Donna, family and friends:

We want each of you to know that our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you during this most difficult time of loss.

Over time, we can once again begin to celebrate Steven's life by ensuring that we think about him when an experience comes our way that we know would "tickle" his sensibilities. - In this way, we can share in the joy of feeling his presence with us. No doubt, this will take time, but, I am confident from my...