Tristen-Whitlock-Obituary

Tristen Lee Whitlock

Obituary

Tristen Lee Whitlock received his angel wings on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, after a lifelong battle with Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease.

Although his short life was filled with many struggles, he touched numerous lives and always had the biggest and brightest smile on his face. He overcame tremendous odds and battled for 13 months showing everyone around him that life is precious and should never be taken for granted. Tristen spent his days laughing and playing with his many toys, reading books, taking walks to the park, and swinging high on every swing he could ride.

With Tristen's passing we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him everyday he will forever remain in our hearts and engrained in our memories. Tristen leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support to our entire family. Thank you to everyone that had a part in caring for him since the day he was born. You all enhanced his life so greatly and will always have a special place in our heart.

Tristen is survived by his loving parents, Rhea and Michael Whitlock of Locust Grove, Virginia; his grandparents, Herbert and Pamela Whitlock of Unionville, Virginia; and Richard and Harper Robinson of Locust Grove, Virginia; his aunt and uncle Lisa and Monty Roberts of Louisa, Virginia; his aunt Susan Whitlock of Hoboken, New Jersey; and his uncle Jesse Robinson of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Family Night will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2008, at Johnson's Funeral Home in Locust Grove, Virginia. There will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, 2008 at The Lake of the Woods Church in Locust Grove, Virginia. A gathering will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tristen's name to: UVA Children's Hospital, Charlottesville, Virginia; Ronald McDonald House, Charlottesville, Virginia; Infant Toddler Connection of Rappahannock & Rapidan, Culpeper, Virginia; ARPKD Foundation at www.arpkd.org ; and Lake of the Woods Fire and Rescue, Locust Grove, Virginia.

In an effort to keep Tristen's memory alive, please take the time to do an act of kindness for someone that crosses your path and let them know you were inspired to do it in his honor. Let our little boy's short life continue to touch others.

This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

You are truly in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep in mind Revelations 21:3-5. This always gives me and my family comfort, and I hope that it does for you.

Tristen was a beautiful little boy, and I can tell from his picture that he was full of life.

My heart aches for everyone involved.

God bless.

Rhea and Mike:
Though I only met Tristen several times I was impressed with his zest for living. His special spirit was evident whenever I saw him. Though his life was brief it was momentus as he affected everyone he that he came in contact with in a positive way. I will always remember him cherishing life so much more after meeting him and knowing you two. Rhea we miss you and love you at work. We await your return. Fred

You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you the comfort and strength that you need during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Samantha C. Oliver

Living next door to your family has been a true blessing, in that I came to know all of you. It is said we each have a purpose on this earth, and when that purpose is fulfilled, we are called home. Tristen's earthly life is done, but his new life without surgery and pain has now begun! His purpose must have been to show us all how to live (as though each day is the last) and to cherish every moment of life we are given. He truly taught everyone who knew him, and so did you, Rhea and Mike! I...

Mike & Rhea - Jen and I were so sorry to hear that Tristen passed. We were recently looking at pictures from the high school reunion and remembered how proud the two of you were of your son. I hope you know how proud everyone is of the two of you of what you have done and what you have gone through. I cannot begin to tell you I know how this feels, you are a very strong couple and you both have great families and great friends that will help you get through this. Please know that you and...

Mike and Rhea, we are very sorry to hear about Tristen’s passing. Our prayers go out to you and your family. Our heartfelt sympathy,

Mike and Rhea,
From Tristen's birth you guys have been an inspiration in your love and as parents and your determination to see your precious son enjoy life. As you well know, he is enjoying life more right now than can even be imagined. I pray for God's love and grace to wrap around you guys and for you to know so clearly and be comforted by how great Tristen is doing as we speak. We love you guys very much.

Harper, Rhea & Michael, what a beautiful grandson & son! I know that Tristen taught you more than most things in life ever could. What a blessing he must have been. My prayers and thoughts are with you and yours as well as all of people that were touched by Tristens short but meaningful life.