Griffin James Piatt

Griffin James Piatt was born August 14th 2008, completing our small but perfect family. From the very moment he came into this world, he was showered with love. His mom received her "person", Noah received his brother and best friend, and his dad received the coolest, toughest, and most unique son a father could hope for.
As a toddler, Griffin had his own sense of fashion which often meant wearing mismatched socks and a beanie with a pom on top. He would touch your face and give you a blessing in a language only he knew, but you could feel. He was always ready to do anything his brother wanted, and loved everything from the smallest bug to the biggest stuffed animal. The only exception would maybe be a stick or two that he would yell at. He would often ride on his dad's shoulders, hugging his neck and sometimes licking his head. His favorite place to be was in his mother's arms, and this would continue to be true throughout his life. Both knew there was a special connection only those two would share and understand.
When he was a young child, he would say the most loving and pure prayers any soul has ever been able to utter. He didn't need faith, he knew. He had a pure and direct connection between him and his Heavenly Father. Griffin didn't want help with anything and would often do things his own way regardless. He brought joy and love to all that met him through his light-heartedness, contagious smile, and piercing blue eyes. Like his mother, Griffin was absolutely beautiful in every way. He was thoughtful and kind beyond his years, knowing how to love anyone.
At eight years old, Griffin was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At this age, Griffin also loved Pokémon, camping, computer games, roller coasters, trying new things, and being with his family. Being homeschooled, Griffin spent every day surrounded by love from his brother and especially his mother. The three of them were inseparable and were constantly going and doing activities, both physical and educational. Griffin excelled in school and loved to read.
It wasn't long before Griffin became a legend online among his friends. He was incredibly talented in the gaming world and was infinitely patient when playing with others who weren't as skilled as him. Playing video games was never about winning for Griffin – it was about spending time with the people he loved and strengthening relationships. Griffin loved his friends dearly and often would go out of his way to make sure he was available for them. He was smart, funny, and thoughtful; something most people, outside of close family and friends, rarely got to see. His love was pure and true in a way that most could not understand, so he kept his social circle small but full at the same time.
As a teenager, Griffin was amazing. Most would see him as a quiet reserved young man with a head full of curls and glowing skin. If you were one of the lucky ones though, you got to see him do some of the most wonderful things. Griffin went to Africa on a service mission, swung on rope swings, laughed and played with his friends, filled his mother's heart with joy, his dad with pride, and his brother with a kindness only shared between the two of them. He had fantastic music taste and did not hesitate to share his favorite songs/artists with his loved ones. He found joy in learning how to play the guitar and often put on private concerts for his mom in his bedroom. Griffin loved animals and had a deep love for his cat, Kairi.
Most recently, Griffin took the first step toward becoming a pilot. His instructor let him fly the plane up to Uniontown, do a touch and go, then fly back during his 45 minute discovery flight. He took his senior trip to Japan where he got to indulge his taste for fine foods. The fresh sushi was amazing and the Wagyu beef topped his favorite foods list, along with gummy candy and Dr. Pepper. Japan's love for everything cute allowed Griffin to round out his lifelong stuffed animal collection. The crane arcades and gacha machines were everywhere which Griffin gravitated to every time we passed them. Most of all, it was an adventure he got to do with those he loved the most. Family and friendships were what he made most important in his life. He was always extremely grateful for any kindness shown to him, whether it was the #1 item on his wish list, a pack of gum, or a sincere compliment. He was very vocal with his love and shared those loving words daily. His kindness was unmatched in this world.
Griffin was perfect in so many ways. He cared for everyone around him, loved and was loved by many, and was pure in spirit. The day before his passing was spent with his family. We went out for our weekly family dinner date. We laughed, loved, and even got dessert. We spent several hours watching old Survivor episodes together and giving each other back rubs and hugs. There was only love. We will never fully know why, but Griffin belongs in a better place than what this world can offer. He is now in a place where there is only love, a love that can only be found in the presence of our Heavenly Father. This is the only place that can match the pure love Griffin possesses. He will always be what completes our family. Our love for him and his love for us has not and will not change, only how we can express it. We know we will be with him again and we will rejoice at that day when once again our family is complete.
I love you son, with all the love a father can give, your dad. Always and forever.