Kayden Michael Strong

On a crisp February day in 2006, the world was blessed with the arrival of Kayden Michael Strong in Clinton Twp, Michigan. From the very start, Kayden's life was a testament to bravery, strength and resilience. At just 68 days old, Kayden underwent a heart transplant, a milestone that marked the beginning of a journey filled with love, faith, and unyielding courage. On May 15, 2025, at the tender age of 19, Kayden left this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege to know him.
Kayden's life was deeply rooted in faith, as an active member of the Trinity Lutheran youth group, where he found joy and purpose in community and spirituality. His belief in Christianity was not just a part of his identity, but a guiding force that influenced every action and decision. Kind, caring, compassionate, and incredibly giving, Kayden's warmth touched everyone he met.
In 2024, Kayden proudly graduated from Anchor Bay High School, an achievement that was celebrated by his close-knit family and friends. He was also an enthusiastic participant in the TFR airsoft team, where his humor and strategic thinking was admired by teammates and competitors alike. Kayden has had a long-time love for building Legos and his recently found passion of acquiring die cast and Hot Wheels cars has led to an impressive and vast collection.
Kayden's family was the cornerstone of his life. He leaves behind a family that adored him: his father, Mike Strong; mother, Belinda Strong; stepmother, Jenny Strong; siblings, Keelie (Brad) Rots, Kyle (Emily) Cottick, Karynn "Kai" Strong, Jackson Strong and Sophie Strong; grandmothers, Kim "Gma" Wise, Renee "Nae Nae" Manchik, and Reannie May (Selzler) and Gladys Garten (Calvert); and grandfather, Greg "Papa" Manchik; uncles, Jason "Uncle Buttwipe" (Teresa) Garten, Aaron (Kristina) Garten and Matthew (Courtney) Manchik; aunts, Katie (Steve) Herrick and Emily (Josh) Schweiger. He is also a loving uncle to Paityn, Lylah, Parker, Lily and Logan. He is predeceased by his grandfather, Bob Garten, who surely welcomed Kayden with open arms.
The family will receive friends at Wasik Funeral Home, located at 35259 23 Mile Rd., New Baltimore, MI 48047, on May 19, 2025, from 3-8pm. A memorial service of Kayden's life will be held on May 20, 2025, at 12pm, where we will gather to honor a remarkable young soul who enriched our lives beyond measure.
Although Kayden's journey may have been brief, his impact was profound. As we bid farewell, we carry forward his spirit of kindness, bravery, and unwavering faith. Rest in peace, dear Kayden, knowing your love and light will continue to shine in our hearts forever.
In lieu of floral arrangements, please consider a memorial donation to Donate Life www.michigan.gov or The House of Hutch www.thehouseofhutch.com or Leukemia And Lymphoma Society wwwgivenow.lls.org