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Garth Sangree Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Garth Sangree
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Ned Hastings
February 14, 2025
Such good memories of Garth. My wife and I remember his helping at the Gabriel House and involvement with the college and student ministries. Him winning powerfully in the Pink 4 Jon race. Garth had a servants heard and loved those who others overlooked. Our prayers continue for his mom and family.
Sam
July 24, 2024
I think of Garth frequently and just wanted to put it out in the world that I'm thinking about him now. I was just a friend of a friend on the same intramural dodgeball team, but I want him to know wherever he's at that he always put a smile on my face, and I'm sure his memory will live on through myself and others for a very, very long time.
Kevin Todd
January 25, 2016
A year ago today when Garth didn't show up at church and wouldn't answer his phone, I realized something wasn't right. I used the find my friends app to track his phone to the beach and found it in his car using the spare key under the wheel well. My heart sunk and I fell into a state of shock. This state would continue for two surreal weeks during which the coast guard and navy searched and searched and I prayed more than I ever had in such a short period of time. When we heard that his body was found, I couldn't stop asking why; I ceaselessly tried to understand. There had to be a reason that this awful loss was part of God's plan to redeem everything to Himself. I've since learned that there's no way my finite mind can possibly grasp the full reason anything happens in this life-- a frustrating revelation for a science-minded person like myself, but one that has pushed me closer to Jesus. God's ways really are higher than ours. I can't tell you why my best friend passed away a year ago, but I can tell you that in the unfolding of events that followed that terrible day, God has done exactly what He does best and has done since the beginning of time: redeeming even the most broken of circumstances. Through losing Garth I've learned what it means to rely on God alone for courage, for peace, and for fulfillment. I've seen people who knew Garth learn that his unbridled joy was purely because of his intimate relationship with God through his savior Jesus. I've seen church look less like a job interview where we present the best version of ourselves and more like a hospital for the broken-- the way the body of Christ was always intended to function. I've experienced the joy of serving a God who takes even the worst situation and uses it to bring people from death in sin to eternal life. My heart still hurts when I think of Garth. which is often (for whatever reason, I tend to picture him longboarding with that crazy hair billowing everywhere like a wild animal on his head). But then I remember that Garth is with his savior now, that he knows no pain, only joy. And I remember that broken people down here on earth are still coming to know and love Jesus because of the way Garth chose to live. And then I smile.
January 23, 2016
So many memories and reminders of Garth. Just left the Detroit Auto show this week and was thinking how much he would have enjoyed the robotics demos and all the new high-tech cars. We miss Garth's curious and always-optimistic leadership in the church media center. We reflect on all of the fun times our families continue to share and how much a part of that Garth was. He is truly missed. In the midst of all of this, it is amazing how the Sangree family continues to live out their lives, honoring God while dealing with such overwhelming loss. Your family consistently lives out in a God-honoring way, Psalm 126:6, which tells us that He who goes out weeping, carrying seeds to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. We have wept with you, seen the seeds sown and have already been blessed to see sheaves - lives changed eternally. And we know that Garth has no tears and is leaping with happiness for every life changed. What joy you must have, seeing Garth walk faithfully, impacting so many lives while he was with us . . . and knowing he is with Christ Jesus now!
Mark, Lisa, Kara, Tess, Haden we love you and pray that you will experience the peace that passes all understanding as you remember Garth and the impact he continues to have in our world. And we look forward to the day that we are all joyfully united once again with Garth and our Lord Jesus.
Mike, Lisa, Kimberly & Amanda Higgins
December 30, 2015
Garth is like a breath of fresh air! During the time I was an AWANA leader Garth was probably in 4th grade. AWANA means Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed, as taken from 2 Timothy 2:15 (Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth). And this verse describes Garth perfectly! When Garth would come to class I did not have to worry. He knew exactly what to do.
He would peacefully choose a vacant chair to sit on and studied his Bible verses until he was called. So many other kids needed to be instructed over and over again to take the time to prepare and to wait their turn. After all, these were 4th graders boys and girls on Wednesday evenings, what shall we expect? It was so pleasant to have Garth there,he knew what was expected of him naturally, or better said spiritually. So young and so mature, he really valued knowing the Word of God. He was a quiet and gentle role model to others. In my case it was very helpful to have Garth there. English is not my native tongue and I need to think hard in how to say something in order to get my message across. Having Garth in my class was like a breath of fresh air!
A wonderful young man correctly handling the Word of God and living it out with his behavior! I have been very blessed to know Garth and privileged to have him in my class. I am sure Garth is with His Maker: Jesus!
In Christ,
Helga Sengberg
Cassandra Mora
December 9, 2015
A sweet loving thoughtful soul. He has made the most of his time here living out the love of Christ. From the bottom of his heart and with swift feet he genuinely purposed his life for Gods good. He has left a legacy of boldness and grace in Christ's name.
In our earlier years I remember Garth as Garth and Kara. I remember their closeness. It was evident since baby booties that he loves his sister. The two of them were the best to babysit so sweet and obedient. This attested to a respectful nature and also the rearing of purposed parents.
Aunt Lisa and Uncle Mark have purposed the feet of their children since they were born to live with fruit of righteousness, love, and thoughtfulness. We have seen Garth blossom to be a purposed person for Christ. Christ is alive and rich in this family. It has been a blessing to me and I have seen these fruits in all of them since the beginning.
I've been told he saw me as a sister, which has touched my heart more than anyone could know. With his kind, loving, and generous spirit, even now he knows how to love on others greatly. He is a true ambassador for Christ's love.
My last memory of Garth was at Uncle Marks 50th birthday weekend, we played golf and hung out. He asked me how I was and shared a continued interest for me. His care and love for those he knew will always live on. His light is one that will shine bright forever as he has touched so many with the love of Christ. I pray to remember to love my family with the heart Garth has had for me.
Naomi Rivera
December 7, 2015
Feliz Cumpleanos sweety!!!
Megan McCallum
November 29, 2015
Oh Garthy Garth,
I've been trying to find the right words, but I don't know if I ever will. So I'm just going to tell you how thankful I am to have been able to know you. Every memory I have with you is so full of laughter and fun. Thank you for being such a joy to know. Thank you for exemplifying the gospel so well to everyone you met. Thank you for your kindness to others, your thoughtfulness in friendship, your humble strength in leadership, and your faithfulness to everyone around you. Thank you for all the laughs and amazing memories. Thank you for giving the best hugs. And thank you for the impact you left on our school, our community, and our lives.
I will never stop missing your smile or looking for you behind the drum cage, but I'm so proud of how much glory has been brought to God through your life. You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race (in first place probably, too) and you have kept the faith. And it has been an honor to know you and call you friend. Love you, forever.
Jesse Roberts
November 5, 2015
Garth.
I have written this several times, and each time I smile more and more. You were a great friend to me.
The first time I met you, we literally ran into each other. All I saw was a messy heap of gold hair and you laughed before we even hit the ground. You helped me up and pulled a leaf out of my hair and we laughed and shared an awkward introduction. We had dinner with Kevin in the caf the night I got baptized and I have never laughed so hard in my life. You hugged me afterwards and said you got dunked, you're one of us! and I just laughed. You walked me home to make sure that no hoodlums snatched me up. We had our jokes, like the time Kevin and I snuck into your room while you were out and were on your bed. And how you always said you were proud of me if I was wearing real pants instead of something with an elastic waistband. You were one of the only people who intentionally kept up with me while I was in Italy for a semester, living through one of the toughest times. Though I felt lonely, you always reminded me that I was never alone. When I moved back in this past spring for RA training, you abandoned your last Welcome Desk shift to help my mom and I struggle with all of my things. That spoke so much to me of your character. We hung out that night behind the desk watching Netflix and talking about how much things had changed since we met, how our faiths had changed since we'd gotten to college, how excited you were to meet Jesus one day.
You, me, Kevin, Teddy, Erin, and Abby all set off Chinese lanterns a week before you went missing. We sang the Tangled song and ate cookies and laughed and thought we would get arrested for letting them go on a nature preserve. I ran into you that Friday morning on my way to lunch and it was the last conversation I had with you. The last time we spoke, you told me about a dream you'd had the night before. You dreamt that your lantern flew higher than anyone else's, that it flew all the way to Heaven and hit Jesus in the foot and he said, Oh, Garth, with a smile, that it felt so real. You said you were so excited for the day you would meet Jesus and you were going to ask Him if He got your lantern. Neither of us knew that the next day your dream would be real, but it's the reason that I never cried when I found out you were missing, that we would spend countless nights without sleep, that I would attend your funeral with only a smile on my face. I hold this conversation so close to my heart, because you told me you hadn't told anyone yet, and I felt so special, like it was our secret, like it was God's gift to me to get me through the coming weeks before I even knew anything that was coming.
I hope you asked Jesus about your lantern, and I hope that He got it. That conversation has given me the peace that I needed to live through this with only joy. That conversation is the reason that I have gotten to tell so many friends about how God used your life even after it was taken away. That conversation made me so excited for Heaven. I have had the honor to tell my friends this story and about a guy who loved Jesus so much, and who lived for Him everyday. I wish you were here to see all the lives that have changed after hearing your story. I love you, Garth, I miss you, and I can't wait to see you soon.
Love, Jesse
Rebecca Kirby
October 20, 2015
Garth was one of the strongest people I ever had the pleasure of meeting. I first met him freshman year through living in the crossings and random things we did with the honors program. He was so fun to be around! I remember going to the third-floor and hanging out in his room with he and his roommate and comparing stories of our days on drum line and in marching band. Garth stuck out to me because of his unwavering love for the Lord. I was nervous coming to college because I was afraid I wouldn't be surrounded by the Christian family I had back home. Meeting Garth my freshman year made me feel at home and like I was exactly where God had intended me to be.
I soon found out that he too was the oldest of four kids, something I don't have in common with too many people. We shared silly stories about our family adventures and weird quirks our siblings had that we thought were annoying but missed more than either of us care to admit. I could tell he loved his family just as much as I did which yet again was something I admired about him.
As freshman year progressed we saw each other some here and there not knowing what our future held. Our sophomore year, we were both assigned to be resident assistance in the landings we were blessed with the most incredible boss and mentor who encouraged us to not only grow professionally and personally but also spiritually.
Garth was notorious for throwing around sarcastic comments and telling jokes too intelligent for us commoners to fully comprehend. He would giggle at himself and proceed to try to explain why the joke was funny but would give up as soon as he realized every single person had glazed eyes. He was always the first to volunteer to do anything and everyone was content with this, knowing that out of everyone, Garth would complete the task flawlessly. We won the most spirited staff that year and we owe it all to Garth.
I returned a third year as an RA and found out Garth was to be my resident. After giving him a hard time about all the crap I would give him as his RA, we laughed about how crazy it was that we would have lived in all the same places every year and how we couldn't get rid of each other. Although Garth and I were never the closest of friends, he was always there. He was always a friendly face to see on campus and an amazing person to have a conversation with. He constantly radiated the love of our God and is one of the smartest people to walk the earth. He was never too busy to ask you how your day was and was never flighty when you really told you him about your day instead of replying with the mundane "good".
It's hard knowing I will never see him again. As his family, you should know that your brother and son was a light to this University. His life was a true example of how we as Christians are called to live. I can't imagine what you all are going through, but always know you have a family of followers praying for you. Thank you for sharing your son with me.
Jr/Sr 2010
Grant Slagle
September 27, 2015
Here are three little memories I have of Garth:
The first memory I have with Garth was in Mrs. Weil's first grade class. We had to write our names for some activity and Garth let me write his name for him. I remember being excited because his was a fellow G name, of which we shared 4 of 5 letters. The similarities between our names were too much for my first grade mind and I spelled his name Grath. In a funny sort of way this signaled the beginning of teachers, parents, and even fellow students mixing up our names. Mrs. Weil was the first to call me Garth (and Garth Grant), and countless others followed. It never bothered me. In fact, I quite liked being associated with him. He was smart and tall. He liked to go FAST! and bang on the drums. He shared my non-sequitur sense of humor, had a big heart, and was full of energy. I still occasionally get called Garth, and I consider it an honor every time.
Sometime during middle school a group of boys had a sleepover at the Hood's house. After we completed our mayhem for the day it was time for lights out. We were all in the living room, I was on a couch and a bunch of guys were in sleeping bags on the floor. Apparently Garth was very excited to go to bed because after the lights turned off he suddenly stood up, reached up over his shoulder, grabbed the back of his white shirt and ripped it off in one swift motion (ninja sound included). To all of our surprise, the rapid removal of the shirt ignited a static discharge between the shirt and Garth so for a fraction of a second Garth was illuminated with a blue light. We were all amazed so we got Garth to do it again and he ran with it, doing it over and over and over until he worked up a sweat. I think this occurrence captures the high level of energy that Garth brought with him everywhere he went.
I was fortunate enough to be in part of a group of friends to go to South Carolina one summer during high school and visit the Crawford's lake house there. One of the days we were there we went to a state park to hike down a mountain to a river, and then hike back up. Occasionally we would pass other hikers and say hi, but Garth for some inexplicable reason would enthusiastically share I'm from Florida! I thought it was an odd thing to do but quietly envied his ability to be so candid with strangers. Toward the end of our hike we encountered people who, thanks to Garth's proclamation, we found out were also from Florida. As it turned out they knew the Li family, who we all knew too. I thought it was so cool how Garth's playful quip could make a connection with someone who would otherwise exchange a passing Hello.
Garth and I at the Space Pioneers Banquet he invited me to in November 2014.
Savannah Smith
September 6, 2015
Telling a story of Garth is one of the hardest things I've had to do. Even harder than a modern physics exam. It's so hard when one of the most important people in your life has left this world behind. We are stuck making sense of the world without them being here anymore. It's just hard! Of course, not as hard as it is for the Sangree's, but it's still challenging. I have lots of fond memories of Garth, even though I only knew him for 2 years. I'll always miss him riding around on his longboard through campus with his crazy blond hair flying through the wind. He had the most unique personality and humor of any human I've ever met! I don't know what it was about him that made me laugh and giggle so much, or the joy he brought me when he was in my presence. I think I appreciated him so much because he was one of the first friends I'd made when I began UNF in 2013. He encouraged me to join BCM (Baptist Collegiate Ministries) on campus along with several other students with whom I eventually became friends. Garth was a man of God for sure. His life so closely resembled the life of Jesus, I thought he might have actually been Jesus himself. I think that was the ongoing joke in my dorm building in which he was a Resident Assistant. The memories of him will always be in my heart forever. He changed my life for the better and I will always be so appreciative of that. I love you Garth.
Elizabeth Mitchell
August 18, 2015
I think Garth would be so very proud of his family and how each one of them are being courageous and carrying on in spite of the loss of their wonderful son. I think Garth would applaud them for doing what is impossible to do humanlykeep going, keep living, keep expressing their pain in a way that brings honor to the Jesus he served with his whole heart. I see Garth's family and I cheer inside for the hope they have in the Savior, for the way they have allowed others in, for how they have shown all of us what a beautiful, loving family does when they lose a precious part. I know the Sangree family must be bringing pleasure to the Heavenly Father. I know that although they have no answers that they are trusting and believing and relying and surrendering and hoping. I am grateful for Garth's life and glad I even got to know him a tiny bit and thankful for the man of God he was and always will be.
Garth and Kevin working at Gabriel House of Care, a place to minister to transplant patients at Mayo Clinic.
Donna Hastings
August 6, 2015
The Director of Gabriel House of Care near Mayo clinic recently came across these pictures at Chets Creek Church Impact Jax day. Garth and some of his friends worked that day at Gabriel House and I remember he and Kevin particularly loved doing the pressure washer on the driveway and patio. We will be thinking of him as we work at Gabriel House next month.
Zoey Masters
July 13, 2015
Not all those who Wander are lost is a quote that came to mind when making this. I never had the pleasure of knowing Garth personally, but from all the amazing stories (which make me feel like I do know him personally) I've heard, I've come to the conclusion that Garth was a major Wanderer, a major adventurer! He had an alive spirit, that took him on incredible journeys. He enjoyed every beauty there was in life. But another big thing about Garth is that he is NOT lost. Every moment Garth had traveled, adventured and wandered, he has never been lost. God gave Garth 22 years, a FULL 22 years that he spent changing peoples lives, loving people and most importantly loving Jesus. Jesus used Garth to fill so many hearts and so many hearts he didn't know personally, like me! And I know the people he did know personally will always cherish the special moments he had brought to there lives. In the dark times I hope we can all find peace that Garth is with Jesus, happy, totally in his element and making Jesus Laugh. I wanted to draw this for the Sangree family to show them an important part of Jesus' love story with Garth and what God put in my heart as an image of that. I continue to pray for you all and hope you all the best.
Isaiah 25:8
"He will swallow up death for all time. The Lord GOD will wipe tears away from all faces. He will remove reproach of His people from all the earth; For the LORD has spoken."
Shannon Lee
July 13, 2015
Garth,
It has taken me a long time to share my thoughts and what I want to share (you know how I am). You were adventures, courageous, inspiring and ect... You never let anyone talk you down and you always had a smile on your face. I remember the time when you came over to my place, you were the only one who was able to make it. You brought movies over and you made the hangout very enjoyable. I'm so glad you introduced me to the X-Men First Class movie. I loved it, Thank you! I wanted to share this story because this was the first thought that came into my mind when I knew I wanted to say something about you (I don't know why but it did). Anyways see you soon my friend!
Garth and Mark at the Old Savannah City Mission in March 2012.
Mark Smith
June 27, 2015
I served as the college pastor at Chets Creek Church in Jacksonville during the first few years of Garth's studies at UNF. I have several vivid memories of Garth from the 3.5 years that we were friends...
I first met Garth in July 2011. His family was here in Jacksonville for his new student orientation at UNF. They came and visited our church that Sunday morning and Garth came and participated in our College Ministry. That, in and of itself, was not that unusual. But as soon as he moved on campus and started his freshman year, Garth got involved. In our church. In campus ministries. And in other activities on campus and in the community. Garth wasn't one to waste time. He made wise and quick decisions about what he was going to invest himself in and he committed himself wholeheartedly. In a world where commitment is, perhaps, one of our most neglected disciplines, Garth embraced it. He was a man of his word.
For several years Garth was part of student leadership teams that I served with. And there would be times when we had lost course or were doing things that did little to advance God's Kingdom. And then there would be a moment of what I would call awkward bluntness. Garth never minded brining up the elephant in the room. He knew what was important and he wasn't going to beat around the bush or hide the truth.
One of my most vivid memories with Garth came during his junior year at UNF. We had just finished eating lunch in the cafeteria on-campus and were walking towards the Student Union. As we made our way across campus, I quickly realized that everybody knew Garth. His involvement, patience, and genuine love for others made Garth a big man on-campus. Whether from his time as an RA, as a part of Osprey Racing, or his involvement with campus ministries, people loved Garth and Garth loved people. He truly understood what it meant to love God and to love your neighbor as yourself.
Garth was one of the most genuine people that I ever met. His sincerity was evidenced in each of these stories and in so many other memories that I have of him. The picture that I'm attaching is of the two of us sitting on large shelves in a warehouse at the Old Savannah City Mission. We were there during spring break in 2012 and spent time volunteering. Whenever there was an opportunity to serve others, Garth was there. Demonstrating his sincere love for everyone. He recognized that God didn't save him to leave him where he was. His life was dedicated to showing and sharing the love of Christ. I'm forever grateful for the short time that I had to know Garth and I look forward to seeing him again someday.
Kevin's 21st Birthday with Garth, Teddy, Brooke, Theresa & Bill
Bill & Theresa Todd
June 23, 2015
We are blessed to have Garth be a part of our lives. He left a lasting impression of kindness and faith on many lives here in Jacksonville, including ours.
Our son, Kevin, was close friends with Garth. Even though their personalities were different, they shared many of the same loves especially their faith and love of God and Jesus. They also loved helping others, UNF, the quest for knowledge by books and by experience, the outdoors and almost all outside activities - running, hiking, camping, Spartan races, etc...
We welcomed Garth and Kevin's other close friends as extended family. The Young family here in Jacksonville also truly offered a home away from home for Garth and this incredible group of young people that were close friends.
In addition to being an excellent student, Garth always seemed to have several jobs, some paid, some volunteering at church. His schedule was so full he could not always get home immediately for holidays and we were blessed that he could enjoy some holidays with our family. Last Thanksgiving, Garth celebrated with our family (including Kevin's grandparents) at our home. The entertainment continued after dinner. A song came on Spotify that I dance to at Jazzercize so I taught Kevin and Garth the routine amid much laughter! Later, Kevin and Garth wanted to start a fire in the fire pit. It had rained recently, so the wood was a bit wet. We remember how determined Garth was to get that fire started, and he did. Garth also joined our family for Christmas. He came by our house in the morning for some festivities and then we all went to Kevin's grandparents' home for dinner. After dinner we opened gifts, including gifts for Garth from Kevin, the grandparents and my sister, who all wanted to make sure he felt like family. Garth was gracious as usual and enjoyed the recounting of family stories and riding around the neighborhood in a 1934 Packard.
Mark and Lisa having met you during such a difficult time and seeing your inspiring strength and faith, we know what a tremendous family life you provided that led Garth to live his life so well. Thank you.
Sam, Monet & Ethan Sandoval
June 15, 2015
Dear Mark, Lisa, Tess, Kara and Haden
I just wanted to say what an honor it was to be at the Celebration of Garth's life.
I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to tell you this in person. Although I only got to meet Garth a few times when he was visiting and hanging out with the youth group, his testimony has left quite an impact on my life already.
I only hope I can live a life as well as he did and let Jesus shine in my life as much as He did in Garth's. I am definitely a better person today after seeing an awesome example of a Godly family lived out for Jesus.
May God bless you and keep you and may he continue to use Garth's legacy and all of you for His kingdom and glory.
David Powell
June 10, 2015
Garth was the RA on the first floor of the Landing, one floor below my roommate and me, during our freshman year. I remember that my first thoughts about him included reflections on the size of his hair and how much fun his floor group was having in their orientation time - "Jump in! Jump out! Introduce yourself!" I was never a member of BCM, but I had many connections to folks there, so with that and the Landing connection it was inevitable that Garth and I shared a handful of memorable conversations. I was always encouraged by his desire to serve his brothers and sisters in Christ, including me. Garth sought to invest in almost everyone he talked to in some way, and I for one can say that I was built up by the discussions we had. This was perhaps in spite of our personality differences - I remember laughing with him about how differently we approached our interactions. As others have expressed, Garth had a kind of bluntness to him that one did not expect at first given his outgoing nature. It was helpful in that he would never mince words if he thought that somebody he cared about was doing something stupid. I couldn't get away with anything in our talks because of that.
DeAnna Thacker
June 3, 2015
Being able to get to know Garth, and share so many moments and memories with him has truly been a blessing. Garth possessed a sense of humor, and so many quirks that I always admired.
I met Garth his first year at UNF whenever he joined his Area Council. He really stuck out to me because he was so confident and so sassy. To my pleasure, Garth continued to participate in Housing activities and I was blessed enough to work alongside him as an Executive Board Member of the National Residence Hall Honorary, as a Resident Assistant, and as a Welcome Desk worker. Every time I saw Garth he really made my day better. I think the thing I loved about Garth the most was that he was so genuine and caring. Garth always asked me how my day was, and how I, myself was doing. I never told him, but it really meant a lot to me because I know he truly cared about the response I was giving and was not just asking out of habit. It's little things like that that I miss the most.
I think of Garth often, especially all of the great memories I have of him. I will forever treasure the moments I spent with him, and I miss him terribly.
Laila Chaoui
June 3, 2015
I have been putting off signing your guest book for so long, I guess its just hard to put into words how much you meant to me and makes it all a little more final. I will never forget meeting you while you were a first year student, president of hall council a little nervous but confident in your leadership abilities. I remember being endlessly impressed with how you took to collegiate life like a pro and your friendly demeanor. Having you in my life even for such a short season since 2011 has changed me for the better.The family dinners, RHA and RA adventures, and duty; you were always my favorite duty partner. There is not a day that I do not miss you and wish I could have my sass buddy back but I know I will see you one day again and until then I will take comfort in thunder while you continue drumming up in heaven.
Annie Frankenstein
May 29, 2015
I've attempted to write this note many times, but each time I feel that the words aren't enough to encapsulate Garth, the memories I have of him, and the richness he added to my life.
Getting to know Garth and being able to spend quality time with him--whether in the form of movie nights, hockey games, late-night conversations--was an absolute privilege. And I count myself truly blessed for each moment I was able to be a part of his life.
I think of him often and the abundance of wonderful memories I have of his playful and quirky demeanor, sense of humor, and the rare deepness of spirit he possessed.
I will treasure the moments I spent with him always. I will treasure his memory always.
Megan Bennett
May 26, 2015
He had a way of lighting up the room when he walked in. I always loved being around Garth and he was one of those good friends I always wanted to be closer with but will have to wait until I get called Home too now. I can't wait to worship with him again.
I've been in Germany the past couple weeks on a mission trip and I see so many tall, lanky guys with big, wild blonde hair and I think about Garth each day. But none of them have his smile or laugh or ability to always speak the truth (especially when it's a hard truth to hear). Garth continues to push me to strengthen my faith and my walk with Christ. He continues to inspire me to be bold while being a good friend who is always willing to serve. I love and miss my brother each day.
Life was a race worth running well to Garth and that's the most important thing I learned from him. Care for your fellow runners and run well for as long as you are allowed.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (II Timothy 4:7)
Jason Binder
May 20, 2015
Unfortunately I didn't get to know Garth too well but I will always remember the way he walked. He sometimes leaned back and had a bit of sway in his step so I jokingly called him gangster Garth. I've admired how he was always happy even when he was doing tedious tasks such as pushing tools for miles around the track.
Chelsea Partridge
May 20, 2015
Garth Sangree was a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. He was a wonderful friend. Anytime Garth saw a friend or an acquaintance, he would greet them with a huge smile and a friendly wave. I was blessed to be on the receiving end of that smile and wave many times, as Garth was a classmate, team member, and most importantly, a friend.
I met Garth during my freshman year. Over the next three and half years, we would take several classes together and do many of the same extracurricular activities. Garth and I were both members of Osprey Racing, and when I went to pursue other interests, Garth was right there, taking part with me. He was an active member of ASME when I became Vice-President and President and was at almost every meeting. When I started the Space Hardware Club, Garth was equally enthusiastic and was one of my first members. He joined the Osprey Rocketeers, a competition team to build and fly a hybrid rocket. The rocket, the Sangree-One rocket, was named in Garth's honor.
Garth and I spent a lot of time talking about our passions. He was very passionate about Christ, and was very much the embodiment of a true, loving Christian. We often talked about music, drumming, engineering, planes, and space. Garth had an open mind and was a great conversationalist.
I'll never forget Garth. I think about him often and how he was taken from this world too soon. But Garth blessed so many people; he touched the lives of more people in his young age than many twice or even three times his age. That pure and honest smile was a known icon of the UNF campus, and Garth was known and loved by all. Those of us who were lucky enough to know Garth will always be blessed by the memories we shared. Garth is missed, but he is also loved and will never be forgotten.
Julia Aldred
May 19, 2015
I didn't know Garth for very long, probably only about 4 months, but he made a big impact. His patience, Generosity, sense of humor and Love of God showed every time I saw him, he made an impact of so many not only through his life, but through his death also, his legacy definitely left a big imprint in all of our hearts, brought us closer together, and encouraged us to lift each other up and to liv our lives more like Garth's, for awhile no one was sure were he was, now we can all be at peace knowing exactly where he is, a place he is with the one he loves most, with God.
Meg Zeigler
May 19, 2015
Every day. Every day you come up some how. Every day I think about you. Every day I miss you. Every day I am saddened. Every day I cry a little. But ten every day I remember. Every day I remember you. Every day I remember the kind, sweet, sarcastic, funny, hard working, intelligent, Godly man you are. Every day I pray to God telling him you should be given praise in heaven. Every day I think about all the lives you touched. Every day I say I wan to live like you did. Every day I say I want to leave this world with the same impact you did. Every day I ask God how can I do God's will, the way you did. Every day I remember how you made every day count. Every day I remember how you lived your life. Every day you lived for Christ. And that is how I'll always remember you. Living every single day for the Savior.
Jodi Hennen
May 19, 2015
It's weird the truth in the phrase "You never know what you have until it's gone." I had no idea what I had in Garth until God chose to take him Home.
I was a fellow leader at BCM and went to Chets Creek Church with Garth and I had no idea how much I depended on him through that. He was just always there, always doing his part. I always wished I had been better friends with him, closer, our schedules just never lined up right. But we were brother and sister in Christ, to the core.
I'll never forget, it was Summer of 2013 I believe, when BCM had a leadership retreat. He came all the way up from home for a weekend retreat for leaders. He and I were friends, no doubt, but we had only known each other for that school year. And he came up to me and my roommate at the time Megan after the retreat and said "My sleeping arrangements fell through, could I stay with you guys?" And Meg and I were thrilled. We both knew that although we didn't have a chance to hang out every day, Garth was our brother. And I loved that he felt comfortable enough to ask that of us, and he was so kind about it. And he came and slept on our couch! There was a point where Meg and I both had to leave for work and he just hung around and did his thing. I remember he said "I'll be fine here, as long as you have wifi." Haha.
I never knew how important he was to me and how involved in my life he was until he wasn't anymore. He was so dependable; he was just always there. It felt so obvious after his passing when we wasn't there anymore. He was never not there.
His spirit is so unique and I believe he found favor with God because of it. He was bright, and loving, and also real. He was funny and kind, but also sassy- just like Jesus! He would fill the room with Light, and music, and laughter. And he was an adventurer.
I remember when I first heard the news, I got broken stories that Garth was missing. But I heard first that he had gone for a run and now wasn't answering his phone. I thought "Of course! He's probably out on some adventure. He probably spent the night in his hammock and the morning barefoot jumping from rock to rock. Of course he isn't answering his phone, he's probably without service somewhere. Certainly he's on an adventure." Then I got the details. And everything changed. And it was suddenly serious and scary and confusing.
But God still had a plan, of course. He was the only person who's passing would bring hundreds to grieve for his loss from this world, to hear the gospel, and through which Jesus saved and continues to save souls. His family members were the only ones who would so humbly face this tragedy and honor God, as they have, through it. It takes a special group of people for God to choose as the bearers of this, for God to choose a death too early, for His Glory, and trust that to be the outcome. It has been so humbling to watch.
And it was convicting. Losing Garth and seeing his incredible impact made me face the reality that my death would not, could not, do this. My passing would not touch so many people and bring them into adoption with Christ. It was a heavy realization that something needed to change.
"Live like Garth."
Sangree family, I want you to know that you have impacted a lot of people with how you have relied on the strength of God through a painfully debilitating experience. No one should lose a child just weeks after his 22nd birthday. No one should lose a brother before graduating high school. This world is unfair and broken, but God is still GOOD. Thank you for showing us that. Thank you for your obedience and strength. And thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Sangree, for raising up a person like Garth, who became the man I call my brother. Whom our Father welcomed into His Kingdom, probably so soon because He couldn't possibly wait another minute to hold His child and say "Well done."
Your family makes God proud, there is not a doubt in my mind of that. Thank you for the honor of knowing and learning from you.
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Jason Binder
May 19, 2015
Emily Wade
May 18, 2015
My first memory of Garth is actually one that I forgotten about until a couple weeks ago. Garth was the first person to really talk to me at UNF. It was the BCM scavenger hunt the first week of school. I had come with a friend, but she knew other people and so went to go say hello to them. I stood by myself feeling super awkward until Garth came and talked to me like we were old friends. Garth was always so intentional and went out of his way to make others feel welcome!
One of my favorite memories has to be one from just before Halloween. Abe and I kept putting off decorating our door for the contest on our floor, and so when Garth was walking with us to the dorm after BCM we jokingly asked us if he would help us. Without hesitation he said yes, and we happily accepted! In the middle of decorating I saw something fly across the room, and Abe and Garth got into a rubber rat and worm fight and ran into the hallway. I stayed in the room to keep making something for the door when a rat hit me in the arm! I looked up and Garth's face was there peeking around the corner! We spent the next half hour or so running up and down the hallways throwing rats and worms at each other, falling on the floor laughing, and just having fun! It was most fun I had had in a month! Garth was always ready to jump at an opportunity to help people out, and wherever he went he lit up the room.
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about him, but now it isn't in sadness, it is in joy for getting to know him at all and being able to see the heart he had for serving Jesus and others.
Ryan Scherzer
May 17, 2015
Garth was the very first friend I made at UNF. I remember that he and I were two of the few non-honors students who were living in building Q at the Crossings (Honors housing) during our freshman year. I was so surprised when I learned that not only did we both not have to attend the infamous Honor's Colloquium class, but we were also both Mechanical Engineering majors. I'm glad I got the opportunity to spend the time I did with him, studying for physics statics and thermodynamics, geocaching on the trails at UNF's Eco-Center, and going to the weekly movie nights at the Student Union. I will truly miss Garth's constant smile and big hair.
Alex Knapp
May 17, 2015
Garth was one of the first friends I made in my classes, he always had a very positive attitude toward everything that really made those early classes bearable. So I am truly sad about the way the past week has unfurled. But I feel like Garth wouldn't want me or anyone to be sad. He would want us to push on and try to make the world a better place. So I challenge all of my friends to try to do just that, let us all try to honor his life by making the world a better place as he worked hard to do.
Rest in peace friend, we'll take it from here.
Joshua Jones
May 17, 2015
Garth was an amazing team contributor to our rocket team at the University of North Florida's Space Hardware Club. I couldn't have asked for a better teammate.
Mindy Sustacek
May 16, 2015
Garth- I remember the day your mom found out she was pregnant with you. She was so excited! She is such a great mom. I remember visiting her and was happy to know that I was right behind her with a baby girl. You were a very good boy- I don't think I ever met a child who was so well mannered. You were so polite and sweet. And had the Whitest hair!!!! So cute.You and Laine really enjoyed playing together when you were little and although thousands of miles apart, you two are so similar in so many ways! Even looks with the long wavey hair- I see you everytime I look at him. You were a great brother to your siblings and your relationship with Kara was so special and evident. As you grew up we all saw each other less but when we did it was very special to us. My kids felt you all were like family. I will never forget the time you and your dad were traveling alone (a Guys trip) and you came for a visit. You both got out there and mowed my lawn. Such big- hearted servants! Wish we all would have lived closer. :(
Your parents did an exceptional job in raising you. I never saw you give your parents a hard time or show any disrespect. For a teenager that was amazing. You truly are a young man of God in every sense. It was wonderful to see the impact your life has had on so many. I am so sorry that God chose to take you when he did. I as well as many others were looking forward to watching you grow and all the great things you were going to do in life. My sincerest condolences go out to your family. You will be so forever missed.
James Nolette
May 14, 2015
I met Garth as a wirey Middle School student. He was quiet at first until he warmed up to you. His smile is what really caused you to be curious. He just enjoyed life and exploring. It is something that runs in the Sangree family. But later I learned where the curiosity came from. Garth loved the Lord and saw Gods truth in all the little things. As he grew, he developed a faithful devotional life which fueled this search and he never lost his zeal. All the way until he met his Maker. Pastor James (2005-2008 BRCC)
Corey Burke
May 12, 2015
I met Garth freshmen year of college at UNF back in 2011. We were both in the same chemistry class and often studied together at his freshman dorm since we both had the same online homework. There was one night where we had both procrastinated our homework so bad that we were in the Crossings study room until 5 am trying to finish before deadline. After we finished, I realized that I had a long walk outside to get back to my dorm at the Fountains. It was about a 30 minute walk, but I was worried about walking alone that late at night. He offered to walk me back to my dorm without me having to ask. I felt awkward and didn't want to inconvenience him but he made it seem like it didn't bother him at all. Once we made it to the Fountains, the outside gates were locked so instead of leaving me there, he made sure I made it safely all the way around the building to the front entrance. I was blown away with how kind of a gesture that was since I'm sure he was exhausted and still had to walk all the way back to his dorm.
I didn't see too much of Garth after that semester because I changed my major and we didn't share the same classes anymore. I did see him every now and then through mutual friends but eventually, our interactions were just simple waves when we'd pass each other on campus.
But him walking me home after a long night of homework was probably the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me during my time at UNF. I've made many friends through clubs and my sorority while at UNF, but Garth will forever stand out to me as the most selfless. I'm so thankful I was able to at least share that one moment with him to see his true character. I will never forget him and I thank his parents for raising someone so kind and thoughtful.
Alee Heaston
May 10, 2015
I met Garth in 2012 when he became my "RA Buddy." What that meant was I was supposed to help understand how to do rounds, programs, and understand the RA job a little bit better. Although him and I were very different, we connected on a lot of levels. We were both from Boca Raton, could talk about hiking and nature for hours, and loved music. As the school year progressed we developed the most closely knit staff you could imagine. We each brought something unique to the work dynamic that made it so enjoyable. He was the one who would get everyone riled up for any event and put 100% into any little thing he was doing. Although I was never particularly into field days or activities like that, he would get me excited about it. He was honest,fun and had undeniable faith. I'm so grateful to have been made his " Ra buddy" years ago and be able to see what an incredible person he was.
Constantine Gavrilos
May 8, 2015
Garth was one of my earliest friends- countless memories at birthday parties, paint balling,and missions trips. Thank you for being a true friend, and making middle school band enjoyable!
Katie Parker
May 5, 2015
January 30, 2015
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Sangree, Kara, Tess, & Haden,
Isn't it amazing how God works, even in this heartbreaking situation? I wish I was writing this under different circumstances, I wish that everyone who came together Tuesday night were there for a different reason, I wish that my words and hugs to you Mrs. Sangree, Tess, and Haden were ones of joy and not sadness. But I am also thankful that all these events have been happening. I am beyond thankful and bless to have known Garth, to have gotten to hear his words of wisdom and many of humor, and to have been able to worship our God together.
I met Garth as a freshman at UNF as I joined BCM. At first, I was not sure what to think of Garth, that's a lot of hair on one person, let's be honest. But I soon grew to love Garth and his hair and all the unusual things he would say. About a year ago I had had a dream about Garth and myself. The dream was that we were dating and we were at Magic Kingdom together. I don't remember what rides we rode or what delicious yet overly-priced food items we ate, but I clearly remember how much fun I had with him in this dream. It was one of those dreams that you can actually feel the emotions, a dream that you do not want to wake up from. Unfortunately, I did wake up and was quite shocked at what I had dreamed about. At this time, I knew Garth, but I did not really know him. I remember laughing to myself then telling my best friends in BCM about the dream and we all laughed together. Garth, of all people, I had a dream about! Still makes me laugh and feel joy to this day. I finally decided that I would tell Garth about this dream of mine. I was hesitant, even nervous! I wasn't sure how he would take it! I remember walking up to him blushing and smiling like a giddy teenager girl (quite frankly that is in fact who I am) and I told him the dream of our trip. He smiled and asked well did we have fun?! My face lit up even more as I proclaimed, we did! I was pleasantly surprised at how well Garth took this news of my dream! Ever since then I had a little crush on Garth! Not enough for me to confess my love for him, but just enough for me to always get this giddy smile whenever I would see him. I still blame the hair.
My other biggest and best memory of Garth is more recent. This school year I live in the Fountains dorm which has a Welcome Desk that Garth would work at from time to time. It turned out that every Friday morning when I would leave my dorm for class was also when he had a shift at the desk. Every Friday morning I would eagerly look for him, again you can't miss him with all that hair! And I would have a huge smile on my face as I waved and said good morning Garth! He would wish me a good morning and we would tell each other to have a good day. No heart-to-heart conversation, no really meaningful conversation at that, but I literally looked forward to seeing Garth every Friday morning. It was a good start to my day. I remember one Friday morning he was not there. A little upset, I saw him the next day working the desk and I confronted him about why he was not there! Of course he had a valid reason and we laughed, I was not really upset, but I did miss seeing him.
Looking back now, I am so thankful that I had that dream of Garth and that God had him working the Welcome Desk so I could say hi to him. These are the main memories that I will hang onto about our sweet Garth. I am also thankful that one day during winter break, my dad and I had stopped by my dorm to drop some things off. Garth was right there working the Welcome Desk. I was so excited to see him and I quickly introduced my dad to Garth. I am thankful for this meeting because my dad is my hero, someone I really look up too and Garth is now one of my heroes as well.
God works in mysterious ways doesn't He? Last weekend when Garth was kayaking, I was in a funk. I felt that I was at a loss of faith in God, I did not feel close to Him. I also felt death near me, this unsettling feeling. I had a creepy dream about death as well. Little did I know, God was at work. Sometimes, no all the time, it takes someone to be gone for you to realize how much you valued them. I miss Garth, a lot. But you grow the most in painful times, you learn the most when you feel yourself breaking. And wow, I am growing! Since Tuesday night when we all came together at BCM, I have felt God in a whole new way. So thank you God for your faithful servant and son of Garth! Praise You! I know that I am not the only one whose life has been changed through Garth.
This week I have constantly been thinking about Garth and saying the character traits of Garth that made him the incredible man that he was. I realized that I want to be like Garth. I believe that God gave us Garth to show us what Jesus would look like in 2015. Y'all, we knew a blonde Jesus! But really, Garth illustrated Jesus every day, no matter what the world threw at him. How inspiring, how challenging it is to yearn to be like Garth. But that is my prayer, that I and others can Live like Garth. Because for me, being near to Garth, is like being near to God. So thank you Sangree family for raising, teaching, and loving Garth. If Garth comes back, I am taking him to Magic Kingdom soon after! If he doesn't, I will be with him in our Heavenly Father's Kingdom.
Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34
With much love,
Katie Parker
May 5, 2015
The picture attached is of a pair of old white shoes I had laying around which Erin McDede had designed for me in memory of Garth. I met Erin at the special BCM meeting the Tuesday after we heard the news about Garth in which you all were present. Erin and I cried, hugged, and prayed a lot together. As we got to know each other she told me that she paints shoes and other items for her friends and the money she collects from the items goes towards her attending a Christian camp this summer. I quickly asked her if she would paint these old, slightly not white shoes anymore, for me. I came up with the design and she brought it to life.
Randy Adams
May 5, 2015
Whenever I ran into Garth, he would make time to converse with me with much gladness. I was not too close to Garth but that did not stop his kindness from overflowing unto me. Perhaps it was his natural disposition or he was just bitten by a bug that didn't allow him to frown. It could of been many things but I know that bond between two Christian brothers that rejoice together in the hope of Christ was definitely a part of it. I look to that day when I will be worshiping the risen lamb with Garth and all the saints in glory.
Barry Sprolss
May 3, 2015
I was Garth's campus minister at UNF. What I love and remember most about Garth was his desire to love and serve those on the margins who weren't popular or cool. He had a way of seeking out people who he knew needed a friend. I imagine Jesus was like this. Garth was a unique and special young man. I've never met anyone like him and I think about him weekly at least. While I miss him, I'm also rejoicing that he is with his Lord and I look forward to the day I will join him at my Saviors side.
Matt Barry
May 3, 2015
When j started going to UNF I was privileged to be able to get to know Garth through Bcm. He consistently wanted to grow in faith as much as he could through being at training and helping setup the sound equipment each week and wanted to learn as much as possible and I'm grateful to be able to witness him live the life of a disciple of Jesus.
Katie Kilpatrick
May 2, 2015
No words can do justice to how much Garth meant to everyone he knew, how much he impacted everyone he met. He was one of the most compassionate, kind-hearted people I've ever known. He was there for me in the most impossible circumstances. He prayed with me on multiple occasions, he listened to me, and led me. Garth showed me what it means to live a life that honors God and brings glory to God. He showed me how to love people as God has loved us.
My two favorite memories with Garth just happen to be the first and the last ones. The first memory I have of Garth was back in August of 2013. I had gone to his dorm room with a friend to ask for advice for a situation that was currently going on. Garth didn't know me but here I was being completely vulnerable with him about my biggest struggle with sin. He was the first Christian that I had ever spoken to about it. He listened. He didn't throw a bunch of bible verses at me or judge me. He prayed with me. In the next year and half to come, he would continue to pray with me and love me, as Jesus would have. Before talking to Garth that August, I had stopped going to church. I had almost given up on my faith. Garth is one of the biggest reasons why I came back to my faith. He was such a good example of what it meant to follow Jesus. I know that I, along with countless others, admired Garth for his faith and for his example.
The last memory I have of Garth was the Thursday before he went out kayaking. That night a couple of missionaries had come to speak to BCM and other campus ministries about their work and experiences in Somalia. Afterwards, everyone was invited to go up to the stage and write their names or a bible verse on big white sheets of paper on the wall. The idea was to inspire students to go out and share the gospel with other students on campus. After the event was over, a group of students from BCM, Garth included, sat around to discuss what we had just heard. I'll never forget what Garth said. He had been talking about how cool it was to see how many names were written on the sheets of paper. He said that sometimes it could feel like you are the only person on campus who believes in God, that sometimes it's easy to feel alone. He continued by saying that, and I quote, It's cool to know that we're not alone. Garth is right. We are not alone. Even though he isn't here with us anymore, he will always be with us in spirit. I look forward to the day where I'll see Garth again and have the opportunity to thank him for his encouragement, his example, and his love for God and others.
Jake Elliott
April 30, 2015
I was lucky enough to be Garth's roommate during our first year of college. It was a time when neither of us really knew anybody, so naturally we came together to figure things out.
As time went on, we became more than just roommates surviving our college experience together- we became very close friends and shared a plethora of great memories together. From the little things like shopping trips to Town Center or our late night bike rides through campus; from the loud cheering for our schools hockey team to jamming out in our dorm room, Garth was someone who flooded into my life in a major way. Writing this, I remember the times we would get food together or grab our laundry, things that seemed so unimportant at the time but are vividly clear to me now as I hold onto those memories of my good friend.
The one thing thing I could say about Garth is something that I found myself thinking one day after I had left his room after he became an RA after jamming out on his electric drum set with some friends and just enjoying each other's company. "Garth is a person I am glad to have met. I wish I could be more like him, he is a light to all those he meets." And he truly was. I know of so many people who have been touched by the strength of this man's character. His compassion, humor, humbleness, and his dedication to faith and people other than himself are things that live on to this day through the people he inspired each day. I will always remember him fondly.
Bethany Brown
April 30, 2015
Garth was part of just about every element of my UNF life. And I'm very thankful for that.... We started off freshman year on the same floor in Crossings Q, started plugging in together at Chets Creek Church, found a home in BCM during that freshman year and before we knew it, sophomore year had arrived and we were working on the Landing staff as RAs together.
Mid-way through that sophomore year, I started to laugh about how much Garth and I had in common, but how entirely different we were. We both loved Jesus, adventures, and serving people, but his engineering student brain loaded with logic was so very different from my communications student brain loaded with less logic. But the crazy part was, we worked together very well.
I can't even begin to relay all the memories I have with Garth. We sat together in Life Group at Chets, pondering questions about faith and our Lord and lifting each other up in prayer. We dressed up like tribal natives from the Land of Ing to prove our Landing spirit and lead our residents to victory. We were co-coordinators for the Landing intramural sports (aka Garth totally showed me up and played every sport while I struggled to find the time to even come watch a game!). We took a mid-summer road trip up from SoFlo for a BCM retreat, and we also served together on the BCM lead team.
But when I think of Garth, my very first thought is of him sitting on his cajon, busting a beat, as we led the people of BCM in worship together. Every single Thursday night. His consistency and reliability were unmatched he was my go-to guy! He tolerated my procrastination and stubbornness and took whatever new songs or weird versions I threw at him with a chuckle and a smile.
As junior year approached and I continued to get to know Garth better, I found myself awe-struck by his ability to do so many things, and to do them all well. He was committed, never half-hearted. I had about three major things I was involved in at UNF and was often overwhelmed he had like eight and seemed to be doing each one of them well! The wild part to me, is that even in the midst of all his busyness, he still made time to build community with people and build relationships that mattered.As someone who got to see Garth both as a co-worker and a co-BCMer, I want you to know that he truly stood out as the best of the best. He was quick to volunteer, always eager to serve, and did it all with a joyful heart. For a while there at BCM, he was literally the only guy I could lean on, and I am so very grateful I had him! His faithfulness reflected Christ's. And it caught my attention, as well as the attention of others. Garth has a very good reputation among the lost: they saw his hard work and his care for people, and they could tell something was different.
I'm grieved by this tragedy, and cannot imagine what your family is experiencing right now, and will experience in the months to come. Watching your family respond with hearts pointed to Jesus Christ has been so incredible. I'm praying you would know Christ deeper in this.I just started seminary up in North Carolina, and on they day they suspended the search, a professor shared a quote by Charles Spurgeon that seemed altogether fitting: "I learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.As losing Garth has wrecked so many lives, I pray that by his Spirit, God would use this situation to cause your family and many others to lean in to him. I know this tragedy has already caused my broken heart to learn to treasure Christ more deeply, and I also know that we have several new brothers and sisters as a result of Garth's life for Christ and the testimony of those who love him. I'm praying that many would be saved through this loss.
Donna Hastings
April 28, 2015
I had seen Garth at Chets Creek Church and was always greeted with a smile when I would sat hello. As I started singing in the choir we had the pleasure of having him play the drums for our worship team. I have sweet memories of him and his UNF friends praising God through their worship in song. You could tell they were sincerely worshiping Jesus out of the love for Him in their hearts. Our church does an Impact Jax day each year where you sign up to do a mission project at one of many sites we minister to. Garth and his friend Kevin and Rachel and another college student signed up to go to Gabriel House, a home for transplant patients at Mayo Clinic. They all pitched in and the residents, many of whom are elderly, so enjoyed having the UNF students there. The house needed its porch pressure washed and Garth and Kevin had a great time using the pressure washer machine. When we went back the next month to do a meal for Gabriel House they asked if the UNF students could come back. Soon after that was when they were searching for Garth and the residents from all over the world asked frequently about the search and prayed for him. Garth's infectious smile and the joy in his life left an impression wherever he went.
I saw at his memorial service such praise from the many whose lives he touched . He clearly was a tremendous witness to so many. Garth is greatly missed. Our love to his family.
Christina Nesbitt
April 28, 2015
I have so many memories with Garth; he was the guy who made you WANT to remember him. In marching band, he would always be that fun, quirky kid to cheer up others. When our patience was tested or our exhaustion hit in, Garth would always find a way to put a smile on my face. He was such an inspiration to all of us, with his kind heart and his desire to help those in need. Garth knew no limits, and he constantly strived to be the best he could be. Nothing could bring him down, and nothing could hold him back from being who he wanted to be, and that's what I loved most about him.
I want to thank Garth for being an amazing person, and an even more amazing friend. He meant more to me than he knew, and I am so incredibly happy with the time I was able to spend with him. He will be in our memories, and he will always have a place in my heart.
Matthew Malone
April 27, 2015
Garth had a special character. We weren't super close, but always enjoyed my time around him. Getting to know him over the years, I came to observe how nice he truly was to people, and specifically people that may not be the most popular or the most exciting to be around. He wasn't just being nice out of obligation but really seemed to be a genuine friend to those who didn't have many friends. I learned a lot from him, though I will never demonstrate those characteristics as well as he did, I praise God for letting me know him for the short time he was here.
Haley Jones
April 26, 2015
It is hard to condense my favorite memory of Garth down to just one. But I do have some favorite memories. I'll never forget when Garth used to run with me while I was training for my first half-marathon. I was substantially slower than him and my entire run counted as his warm-up. Nonetheless, he was never bored or annoyed with how slow I was going, but he ran with me and encouraged me the whole way. Garth was just that. So authentic, encouraging, and always up for anything. Garth and I went through a devotional together at the end of 2013 about making disciples. I was always so inspired by his sheer boldness and unwavering faith. This is how I know he is loving every second he is spending with his Lord and Savior. I miss him dearly everyday. It is impossible not to, but it makes it better knowing that we will be reunited one day. I am blessed to have known Garth Sangree and continually seek God more and more making the most of everyday because of his example and lust for life. Looking forward to our next run, dear friend and brother in Christ.
Alexander Hernandez
April 26, 2015
Every single day I always think about the memories and good times Garth and I had together. He always made time for me and everybody. Anytime I would sleepover at his dorm we would always have fun, go on adventures and hang out with our friend Kevin.
I miss Garth so much and I was blessed and honored to have known him and I'm glad I was friends with him....he made me feel like a true friend. Garth was always a friendly loving guy. He didn't care who you were and anytime you needed somebody to talk to or help with something, Garth was always there for you and would always listen to you. He always made time to serve and help other people even when he had too many things on his schedule. Garth was an incredible friend and awesome person to everybody. He would always encourage me help me eat healthy and would invite me to BCM or church and always made me feel welcome. Anytime I was alone and not with anybody Garth would walk up to me and ask me if I would like to join him and everybody else.
One of my favorite memories is when we went camping at Hannah Park. Me and my friend Kevin thought about getting fast food around 1am and Garth's like "why would you do that" and looked at us like we are crazy then said "I have snacks in my car that you can live on for the rest of the night". Another memory was the last time I did a sleepover I told Garth I was hungry so he told me to save money and not waste it, then when we got back to his dorm he brought me a huge bowl of pasta and I was like holy cow then he started laughing I'll never forget Garth... I'll always remember him.
I miss him so terribly much. I'm also always going to honor him and eat healthy because I know that's what he wanted me to do. I'm thankful God blessed me with him. He would always get me involved in so many events at church and UNF. Anytime you were sad or not feeling happy, Garth would always find a way to make you smile, laugh, be happy and lose your frown. His presence would always make peoples days better. I can't wait until I get to see Garth again and catch up with him. Garth was always a true and good friend and to the Sangree family, you guys are still in my prayers and I wanted to say thank you for sharing Garth with us. He was a wonderful young man and it was a blessing to know him and you should know you guys raised a awesome godly man!
Bill Michell III
April 22, 2015
My Favorite memory of Garth:
I was chaperoning Garth's 10th grade class on a missions trip in Tennessee. This particular day, we were helping cleanup a campground at Longview Ranch. There were about 20 of us, raking up leaves, picking up branches and chopping down dead trees. We would gather all the debris in piles, and then burn them in the forest. As the day wore on, we created more and more piles, and more and more fires. Several of the students were tasked with maintaining the fires; making sure everything burned correctly and- most importantly- didn't get out of control and spread to the rest of the forest.
Late in the day, we had several large fires burning and I, along with some of the others students began to panic as the fires got out of control. I began to instruct and yell at the students, encouraging them to help me contain the fires.
That's when I heard Garth yell, Don't worry Coach, I got it. I turn around to see Garth, barefoot (he later told me, "its so I can feel the fire) sprinting wildly around the debris piles wearing only his shorts and carrying a shovel.
In the midst of the smoke and confusion he immediately began calmly shouting instructions, directing his classmates to dig barriers, and to fortify the breach around each pile. Within minutes, everything was under control... crisis averted.
I relaxed, and even laughed - Garth was there, I was calm knowing that he got it and everything was going to be just fine.
April 22, 2015
GARTH WARMED MY HEART BY STATING HOW PROUD HE WAS BEING MY GRANDSON AND HAVING THE SANGREE NAME. BEING IN THE MINISTRY CAN PUT PRESSURE ON CHILDREN AND OR GRAND CHILDREN...SO HIS DECISION TO FOLLOW A CHRIST - LIKE LIFE WAS SUCH A BLESSING TO ME, AND AS WE NOW KNOW TO MANY,MANY OTHERS. LOREN SANGREE, PATERNAL GRANDFATHER.
Ross Boyd
April 20, 2015
While I may have not had the pleasure of being very close with Garth, I did spend enough time around him in order to see who he was in Christ and how his life through Christ was affecting others to expand the Father's kingdom. Garth was a man who sought to be selfless in helping others whenever the opportunity arises, no matter how taxing it was to himself.
The one thing I did with Garth that's the most memorable was going hiking on the Appalachian Trail during the Spring Break of 2014. This was easily the most memorable Spring Break ever and Garth definitely was key in making many of those fond memories I can look back on. Whether it was sleeping under an overpass, driving on a random persons truck bed, accidentally trespassing private property, or watching Garth fall off the truck and roll down the hill, Garth helped make that trip one that I can only look back on and smile. Being around Garth also entailed going on an adventure. I do miss him and will continue to do so. But I will see him again, and when I do, we can continue going on adventures.
Sarah Williams
April 16, 2015
Garth lived a full life serving the Lord. Whether it be through school, band, track, or church, he continued to seek first His Kingdom. I was able to call Garth a friend from Sunday School, Awana, Youth Group, onward and was in Boca High Band with him. He was always able to light up a room in his mysterious but hilarious self and truly shined bright for Jesus. It was always so great to be able to come in the band room and have a face that knew me outside of all of it, and a connection from band and church. He made me feel welcome in any room I stepped into. We were able to go to marching band states together, and graduate from Boca High together. I am so thankful for the many years that I called him friend.
Eric deWeber
April 16, 2015
El Gar (My nickname for you),
Tess played your song at a special performance the high school band had this year.
Tess composed it. The song is named "Garth's Lament," a name I suggested when she was looking for a title for the song; this was back when she was in middle school and you were in 10th grade. I suggested the name because we were sad you all were leaving the school. Of course, that song has a new meaning to us all now.
I thank God for your life! I love your family too more than ever.
I miss you Garth Vader!
John Gans
April 16, 2015
Garth was a truly inspirational person. The best description of his life that I have heard went along the lines of one dandelion must pass to be able to plant hundreds of seeds. And Garth most definitely spread love, life, and inspiration everywhere he went. Some of my best memories from UNF are when Garth let me tag along on some adventures/ exploring around UNF and the neighboring woods. He was loud and happy and energetic and Just his excitement was contagious when it came to doing something he loved. He was always happy to Joke around, and even sarcastically tease me at time. He was a great friend and helped me more than he'd know.
Heber Michel
April 15, 2015
So for the majority of the time I knew Garth we liked the same girl (great minds think alike right). Because of this I, being the cave man I am, had to show that I was the more dominant male whenever I got the chance to (mostly for my own pride). Despite my best efforts he ended up riding off into the sunset with my' girl. Now fast forward a couple mouths and it's time for Missions Week. I have been looking forward to Missions Week for weeks and I am having a blast. I remember this like it was yesterday, it was Bill Mitchell's first mission week and he wanted to end it with something new. So the last night and all the students walk into RAC A and there the buckets full of water at the front of the room. Bill had planned a foot washing ceremony, the first one I have ever seen or participated in. So to make a long story short it was my turn to get my feet washed. Now the first two people that washed my feet I remember their words and faces vividly because I was looking at them and nodding while trying to hold tears back. But when the third person can up, when Garth Sangree came up to wash my feet, I LOST IT! Like watching The Notebook by yourself on Valentine's Day lost it. I could not control my emotions. I could not even look at him, but I did hear him and the one thing that he said to me that stuck with me was I look up to you. That blew my entire mind. Here is this man, this leader, who I did not like, who was dating my crush, and who bested me in pretty much everything we did on his hands and knees washing my feet and on top of that he told me he looks up to me! I swear to this day there were more of my tears in that bucket that soap and water combine. Because I am very hard headed and slow, it took me a week after that night in RAC A to sort throw my feelings toward Garth. When it all finally came together I had agreed with myself that there is not a man in our age group that I respect more than Garth Sangree. That respect eventually turned into a friendship; a friendship that taught me more about myself that any before or since. I am grateful for the time that I had to learn from and be around Garth. He has touched my life I was I cannot explain on paper or in word but I but he owns a special part in my brain and heart.
Kimberly Higgins
April 15, 2015
Garth was nothing but a strong Godly man with a servants heart. I have so many fun memories of Garth in Boca Christian band, countless beach trips, dinners, and other fun activities with his wonderful family. Probably some of the best memories were during the few years that him and I were part of the media team at BRCC. His passion to master every component of production was incredible. His wisdom and patient leadership qualities were reflective of his strong walk with the Lord. Garth loved life and had a passion for living life to its fullest. He probably went on more adventures during his short life than most people ever would in their entire life! Garth loved Jesus with all his heart, he loved life, and he loved people. The life he lived and the legacy he left behind is that of a man who reflected Christ in every aspect of his life, and because of this lives have been changed. It is amazing how God works through people and situations and uses it for his glory.
Alisha Bosanac
April 15, 2015
Garth,
I still haven't been able to process or face everything that has happened.. My first memory I have of you is in 5th grade we both tried out for a solo in the school musical and I ended up being your alternate. I remember being jealous and secretly hoping you wouldn't show up for some reason but you did and I never got the solo. I never thought you'd be someone Id grow to care about so much. Then we became friends in high school even though we didn't really get a long at first. I was kind of ditzy and as we all know your humor was out of my league. I remember the first time we really hung out was at Billy's and when it was time to leave me and gabby were walking back to her house and when we were more than half way back we finally realized you and billy were following us back to her house. We thought it was hysterical. But then through the paintballing, man hunt, game nights, box fighting, and you being the yellow to my stop light day for its complicated relationship status you gave me memories and a friendship I love and value. Im so thankful for the time I had with you and that I got to road trip with you this last summer. It hurts me to think of you in past tense and your memorial while beautiful feels like a daze. I still can't think of you without crying but when I think of you I remember the sound of your very distinct laugh and it helps and I know this is supposed to be a place for happy memories but writing it out like this is the only way I could do it. I still laugh when I think about how you'd bring your own sandwiches with you and how we'd tease you about being the slowest eater. I think of all the times you popped out of no where and I thought I was going to have a heart attack. Even just silly things like hanging out and playing games and sleeping in my backyard I cherish the thought. You were always so unafraid to be yourself and I've always admired you so much for that and for being the most fearless person I know. I know you're in a better place and I know the love you had. I love you Garth and Im honored and proud to have known you and know we will meet again.
Jake Fagan
April 15, 2015
Garth and I had this funny way of greeting each other where I would say his name like Ga-a-a-a-a-a-a-rth with my voice shaking like that and he would say my name back the same way and we always laughed at how funny it was. I don't know how it came about but we had done it for years and it always made us laugh.
April 15, 2015
Some Questions Garth answered on Facebook
June 13, 2009 at 9:31pm
Miscellaneous
Questions...
200: AIM name: drummergarth
199: I was born in: a hospital in Boca
198: I am really: tall and fast when running long distances
197: My cell phone company is: TMobile / Sidekick!
196: My eye color is: blue
195: My shoe size is: 10
194: My ring size is: skinny
193: My height is: 6'1
192: I am allergic to: dust a bit
191: My 1st car was: not existant
190: My 1st job was: maintaining concentrators at my dad's business
189: Last book you read: Hot Zone
188: My bed is: small, yet comfortable
187: My pets: well I don't have any, Tess has a hamster and Kara has a hedgehog
186: My best friends: David, Billy, Michael, Grant, Gabby, Monica, Caitlin
185: My favorite shampoo is: in my hair right?
184: Favorite quote: Why so serious?
183: Piggy Banks are: porcelain swine
182: In my pockets: im not wearing pockets right now
181: On my calendar: are many letters and numbers
180: Marriage is: a beatuiful bond between a husband, wife, and God
179: Are you sitting up or laying down right now?: laying down
178: My mom: is awesome
177: The last three CDs I bought were: I haven't bought a physical CD in like 5 yrs
176: Last YouTube video watched: edgar falls
175: How many cousins do you have? 15
174: Do you have any siblings?: yes, younger 2 sis and 1 bro
173: Are your parents divorced: no
172: Are you taller than your mom?: yes
171: Do you play an instrument?: I can play an entire section, percussion!
170: What did you do yesterday: friends came over and watched the day the earth stood still
I Believe In:
169: Love at first sight: it could happen
168: Luck: there is chance, bt God is still on control, which is so cool
167: Fate: is in God's hands, we still have the power to choose
166: Yourself: I am no mortal being
165: Aliens: impossible
164: Heaven: going there soon!!!!!
163: Hell: a place a don't want any of friends to go
162: God: he won't relent til He has it all!
161: Horoscopes: stupid
160: Soul mates/love: only for opposite sex
159: Ghosts: spiritual warfare is real
158: Gay Marriage: love the sinner, hate the sin, this so hard to do
157: War: very necessary to stop an evil uprising
156: Orbs: power-ups in games?
155: Magic: the force
Which is Better:
154: Hugs or Kisses: Hugs, they are the white chocolate ones
153: Drunk or High: = bad
152: Phone or Online: Online
151: Red heads or black haired: red heads
150: Blondes or brunette: well, I have white hair
149: Hot or cold: cold
148: Summer or winter: winter
147: Autumn or spring: autumn
146: Chocolate or vanilla: vanilla
145: Night or day: dusk
144: Oranges or Apples: oranges, I live in FL, duh
143: Curly or Straight hair: straight
142: McDonald's or Burger King: Checkers!!!
141: White Chocolate or Milk Chocolate: White Chocolate
140: Mac or PC: Mac
138: Ugly and rich or sexy and poor: sexy and poor
137: Monster or Full throttle: vault!
136: Randy or Simon: randy
135: Burried or cremated: cremated and then ashes spread over the Pacific Ocean on the CA coast
134: Singing or Dancing: singing
133: Xbox or Playstation: Xbox
132: The Mac guy or the PC guy: Mac guy
131: Small town or big city: small town
130: Wal-Mart or Target: Target
129: Ben Stiller or Adam Sandler: Ben
128: Bath or shower: shower
127: East Coast or West Coast: East Coast Extreme Paintball!!
126: Your Birthday or Christmas: birthday
125: Chocolate or Flowers:
124: PNE or Six Flags: Six Flags
123: Calgary or BC Lions: idk
122: Abortion: killing human life is pretty much terrible
121: George H. W. Bush: went skydiving recently
120: Being gay: is for homos
119: Having Obama as president: yeah taxes, I can't wait!
118: Smoking: kills!
117: MySpace: too unorganized
116: Reality TV: not interesting
115: Parents: help me become who I am today
114: Homophobes: scary
113: Ebay: I bought my drumset off there
112: Sex: for man and woman who are married
111: Work: is needed to be done
110: My Neighbors: anyone in need
109: Gas Prices: are in the big numbers region
108: Designer Clothes: uhhh? camoflage!!!!!
107: College: is after high school
106: Sports: skillz
105: My family: I am the tallest
104: The future: is in God's hand
Last time I...
102: Last time you ate: at 10
101: Saw someone I haven't seen in a while: Wesley from kindergarten at cross-country practice
100: Cried in front of someone: I don't remember
99: Went to a movie theater: Night at the Museum 2
98: Took a vacation: hiking on the AT
97: Swam in a pool: monday @ Billy's
96: Changed a diaper: not yet
95: Got my nails done: in kindergarten at a family reunion
94: Went to a wedding: my cousin Amanda
93: Broke a bone: never
92: Got a piercing: again I will not defile my body
91: Broke the law: idk
90: Texted: various people
89: Who makes you laugh the most: Michael
88: Something I will really miss when I leave home is: my home church and my family
87: The last movie I watched: Braveheart
86: The thing that I'm looking forward to the most: Long View and camping ina couple of weeks
85: The thing I'm not looking forward to: picking a college
84: Nicknames: G, Garthy, G-Man, Girth, Garth Vader, Garf, Grant, Fat Boy, Joe
83: The most difficult thing to do is: asking forgivness
82: I have gotten a speeding ticket: no
81: My zodiac sign is: idk I don't care
80: The first person I talked to today was: my mom
79: First time you had a crush: 3rd grade
78: The one person who I can't hide things from: God and my dad
76: Right now I am talking to: Billy
75: What are you going to do when you grow up: pharmacist
74: I have/will get a job: at my dad's business and the Hoods' auction gallery
73: Tomorrow: I'm going to discipleship and paintballing!!!!!
72: Today: I plan on having some friends over and watching Get Smart on a big screen and projector
71: Next summer: I want to be a counselor w/Matt in a camp in TX
70: Next weekend: no youth group because of Father's Day
69: I have these pets: a hamster and a hedgehog and Tess finds a new pet daily from the outdoors
68: The worst/best sound in the world: nail filer / rubbing a TI-89 on a desk
67: The person that makes me cry the most: my mother, every time she cries I cry
66: People that make you happy: people in victory w/ God
65: Last time I cried: I don't remember
64: My friends are: fun to make laugh, bt sadly I make fun of them too much
63: My computer is:
kinda old, bt at least its Mactintosh and I don't have a stinkpad any more
62: My life: is gonna be used by God, which is why its gonna be AWESOME
61: My Car: none
60: I lose all respect for people who: are in considerate w/manners
59: The movie I cried at was: first time I watched Passion of the Christ
58: A show TV show episode that made you cry: none
57: Your natural hair color is: white
56: Favorite soda: Nestea ice tea, if that doesn't count then Sprite
55: Your dream vacation: family reunion in Australia
54: The worst pain I was ever in was: flipping off a dirtbike
53: How do you like your steak cooked: medium rare
52: My room is: nice, got carpet and a drumset, bt a small bed
51: My favorite celebrity is: Drew Shirley
50: Where would you like to be: on a safari in Africa hunting some exotic animals
49: Do you want children: of course I want the joy of being a father
48: Ever been in love: not truly
47: Who is your best friend: see #186
46: More guy friends or girl friends: guys
45: One thing that makes you feel great is: Honoring my parents and shooting some one in paintball
44: One person that you wish you could see right now: Riley
43: Do you have a 5 year plan: I just have hopeful expectations and faith and trust in God
42: Have you made a list of things to do before you die: a bucket list, no
41: Have you pre-named your children: at leat one is gonna be George, my grandfather's name
40: Last person I got mad at: Haden
39: I would like to move to: California, most of my extended family is there
38: I wish I was a professional: hunter
My Favorites...
37: Candy: Skittles!
36: Vehicle: Humvee / A-10 Thunderbolt II (Warthog)
35: President: Thomas Jefferson duh, found CA
34: State visited: California, beach and mountains, can't beat that
33: Cell Phone Provider: AT&T, iPhone duh, especially with the new iPhone 3Gs
32: Athlete: Michael Phelps is insane
31: Actor: Mel Gibson / Tom Hanks / Heath Ledger
30: Actress: Nicole Kidman
29: Singer:
28: Band: RED
27: Albums: RED/Innocence and Instinct and Switchfoot/ Beautiful Letdown
26: Grocery Store: Publix I suppose
25: TV show: Mythbusters and hve been watching a lot of Time Warp lately
24: Movie: Dark Knight
23: Website: pretty much facebook
22: Animal: white Siberian Tiger
21: Theme Park: Busch Gardens in VA
20: Holiday: Easter
19: Sport to watch: for real, sports aren't exciting to watch for me
18: Sport to play: cross-country, I can run from San Fransisco and back
17: Magazine: well none now, bt used to be Disney Adventures
16: Book: The Count of Monte Cristo
15: Day of the week: saturday
14: Beach: polmetto
13: Concert Attended: Swirchfoot and Relient K at Universal during Rock the Universe last year
12: Thing to cook: uhh? COOKies
11: Food: pulled porks w/bowtie noodles
10: Restaurants: Checkers and the old Roadhouse, where you could throw the peanut shells on the ground
9: Radio Station: 88.1 Way FM
8: Candle scent: creme brule
7: Perfume: what ever my future wife is gonna wear
6: Flower: Venus fly trap
5: Color: dark green
4: Talk Show host: I don't really watch any
3: Comedian: Michael and I put together
2: Dog Breed: pointer
1: Are you ready for this survey to be over?: maybe sometimes before tomorrow, but only if I switched places
Melina Visser
April 13, 2015
I had the privilege of knowing Garth for only 5 short days. But I remember him more vividly than many people I have known for much longer periods of time. We served at Vacation Bible Camp together 2 summers ago. I remember thinking how cool it was that a college kid would give up a week of his summer vacation to work with a bunch of 3rd and 4th graders. Obviously Garth stood out with his height and shock of long blonde hair but it was his demeanor that struck me. I was the one who grew frustrated when one of the kids refused to come out from under a desk...Garth stayed calm and cool. I was the one who felt nervous and awkward on Gospel day (when we really get down and share what it means to give your life to Christ.) But Garth had it together and easily sat with the boys on the other side of the room and shared the Gospel. I have the feeling that was how he was all the time- laid back, easy going, peaceful in his faith.
I remember being very upset when I heard he was missing and I felt kind of silly for being so upset because I didn't really know him that well. But that was the kind of guy Garth was...you met him once and never forgot him. I am blessed to have served alongside him for just 5 days...he was the type of person you hope your own son can grow up and be.
Kelsey Brock
April 13, 2015
The quote "Funny how the good ones go, too soon, but the good Lord knows the reasons why I guess" by Jason Aldean is the only thing that really comes to mind right now. The one memory that really sticks out to me is the night when I obviously couldn't sleep and you had way too much stuff to do that you were also up. Your RA board was supposed to be done by the next day and you hadn't even taken down your old one. So I decided to help you. I remember picking the theme and figuring out what shapes to cut out. The laughs we shared and the funny looks from you will never be forgotten. This wasn't the first night the two of us were outside late, me, you and Michael use to sit out and talk about who knows what and we'd look down and its by 4 A.M. "Where'd the time go?" we'd say. I miss the crap out of you and still cannot believe you're gone. Love you Garth and I can't wait to see you again.
Chris Euler
April 12, 2015
Garth Sangree was a man on a mission - a mission that led him to live everyday for the cause of Christ! He was not afraid to share the Gospel, not afraid to tell others about his faith in the Savior of this world, and he was definitely not afraid to worship the Creator of the universe! As his youth pastor, I was incredibly impacted by the life Garth and his entire family lived! They were not ashamed of who God was and the life He had called them to live.
Garth also had a sense of humor that often made you laugh nonstop and left you scratching your head in wonder. Yet, he always brought joy to a room, no matter what circumstances people were facing. He was a young man that was full of life, excitement, and passion! You could tell when Garth Sangree walked into a room!
While many will forever miss Garth, his legacy will forever live on! The life he lived has made an eternal impact far greater than one can imagine! I am thankful for the time our family was blessed to spend with Garth and the entire Sangree family! Through the life they have lived and the physical death Garth unfortunately experienced, many people have accepted Christ as their personal Savior and will forever experience eternal life! That is a legacy that cannot be beaten! I am proud to have known and walked through life with Garth Sangree!
Autumn Euler
April 12, 2015
If I could describe Garth in one word it would be JOY! He was always full of joy. He always greeted you with a large smile. He was outgoing, friendly and always worked hard at making others feel welcome and included wherever he was and whoever he was with. He was a great leader and example.
He also had a heart of worship. I loved to watch Garth worship. He was definitely gifted musically and it showed. He would worship his heart out inside the drum cage and you could always tell it was him in there because his blonde hair would be flopping around.
Thinking back on student leadership meetings Garth had this way of taking funny conversations and making them hilarious or making serious conversations even deeper.
I am privileged to have had him as a student in our ministry but also as a friend! He was a great kid! It is crazy awesome to think he is walking with Jesus.
Jared Smith
April 12, 2015
Garth Sangree. Spontaneous, hilarious, respectful, sincere, athletic, carefree. These are just some of the words that come to my mind when I think back to all the time I spent with Garth. He had that rare ability to know both when to tell a joke or make people laugh and when to listen and be respectful. Garth also never cared what people thought of him. If he wanted to do something he did it, and most of the time it was either really impressive or really funny. His athleticism was also something that I would love to have. Most important of Garth's qualities was his love for God. This man knew whole-heartedly what it meant to know and follow God. He loved his Lord and always strived to show that love to everyone he encountered. I remember during missions week one summer we did beach evangelism and I was with Garth and I saw how he was not afraid to tell complete strangers about the gospel. My favorite memory of Garth was our spring break Appalachian Trail hike that we went on together with a few of his friends. Garth, as you could imagine, was in his element; always at the front of the group, always eating his trail mix, always saying the funniest things, and always helping those of us that needed it. This memory, along with all the other great times we had together, I will cherish forever. Garth, you were and still are a brother to me and for the rest of my time here on Earth I will miss you dearly but I am so thankful that we will be together again in our next life.
Samantha O'Brien
April 12, 2015
I met Garth shortly after moving to Florida from Virginia, my senior year of high school. Garth has an amazing spirit. I say HAS, not had, because it still lives on. There is absolutely no way such a vibrant soul could not be still existing somehow. Garth's sense of humor is fantastic. He was always so quirky and yet so confident in himself! Garth was such a wonderful presence to be around. I wish I had gotten a chance to tell him how amazing I think he is, but he is so humble that it would have been uncomfortable! I had a dream shortly after hearing of his passing that I got to tell him face-to-face just what an awesome person I think he is. Garth left an incredible legacy behind, he will never be forgotten.
Halloween party at UNF Crossings dorm 2011
Rachel Bladow
April 12, 2015
I met Garth at UNF during our freshman year. We lived in the same dorm and had a good group of friends that spent a lot of time together. I remember making breakfast for dinner with him and two other friends. We were so proud of our cooking accomplishments as newly out of the house college freshman. I also remember attending a UNF hockey game with our friends and Garth got so absorbed into the action of the game that he started pounding on the plexiglass. I remember we all were laughing and enjoying his enthusiasm, while worrying he might break something. After this game, I remember that Garth, two other friends, and I played four person pac-man in the arcade.
My favorite memory however, is when my best friend, her boyfriend, Garth, and I went ice skating our freshman year. My best friend barely could support herself against the wall and her boyfriend stayed near her. I was a little shaky on the skates, and seeing that, Garth skated with me to help keep me steady and provide company. I know he could skate well, so it meant a lot that he stayed with me to help even at my slow pace. I remember on one of the laps around, when we passed our friends, he excitedly told them to look at how well I was doing. This is my favorite memory because it shows how selfless and compassionate Garth was to all those around him.
In the years since freshman year, Garth always took the time to greet me by name if we crossed paths on campus. His strong faith in God was truly infectious.
While I only knew Garth for about 4 years, he truly touched my life and I will be forever grateful to have called him my friend.
Cory Dell
April 11, 2015
I met Garth at BCM. We were not that close but he always had a witty comment to add to the conversation. You could see his walk with the Lord everyday. He was a great guy who impacted so many.
John White
April 9, 2015
My favorite memories of Garth were from our annual Father & Son Camping & Hiking trips starting in 2007. The trips that Garth attended were ones I fondly remember where Garth was the unofficial "Big Brother" to all our sons. They would follow Garth around like the Pied Piper; he was definitely the leader of the pack. One hike, shortly after we started, most of our sons dissappeared within the first 10 minutes. We did not see them for hours, but none of us dads were worried because we knew they were with Garth. They finished the 9 mile hike 2.5 hours before we did. While they were waiting for the old men to finish, they were being entertained by Garth and his stories. I know my son, as well as many others looked up to Garth. Garth was definitely a young man that I was comfortable with my son emulating. Garth was full of adventure (which he acted on every chance he had) and full of love for his family, his friends and his creator. As I have said before, Garth was the rare young man that you wanted your son to be like and your daughter to marry. Garth, you are missed, but your legacy of loving the Lord with all your heart ... and loving your neighbor as yourself continues to have a ripple effect being felt far & wide. Well done thy good & faithful servant.
Elizabeth Petrocelli
April 7, 2015
We have known Garth all his life and we have many memories of Garth and his family! We remember play dates in the park, going camping and sitting poolside as Garth did a huge cannonball to get a party started. He was always climbing a tree jumping on a trampoline or the first one to shoot the bow and arrow. My children had such adventure and fun with Garth! My son Nicholas is a friend of Hayden's and he has always looked up to Garth! We are so very sad and grieve with the Sangree family but also look forward to heaven when we will see him again!
All our love,
George and Liz Petrocelli
Sherine Forrest
April 3, 2015
When Garth was a wee lad of about 5 years old, he traveled from Florida to the West coast. Florida is known for its distant view of land with not much variance (no hills or mountains). The only varience was what he learned to identify as a 'land fill'. Well, speaking of the beautiful hills and Mountains of California and being the observant boy that he was, he stated "Wow, they have so many landfills here!" I have continued to inwardly chuckle through the years at my little white haired nephew's exciting observation :) What a joy little Garth was!
March 31, 2015
We knew Garth right from the beginning. We, Mark and Kathy Deuser a/k/a Uncle Mark and Aunt Kathy, were his first visitors at the hospital after he was born. Getting to know and experience Garth as a baby was new for us. We were newly married and had never been around babies before.
Lisa and Mark were new friends to us and became like family and as a result so did Garth. He was a sweet, obedient, fun baby. One memory is of Garth up close to a "boom" box jamming to the music - he was probably 18 months old at the time. He loved music from an early age.
He was a "fake" baby and gave us courage to start the parenting journey. We had no doubt he would grow to be a godly, young man with so much life. We pray our own son will love the Lord as much as he did on earth.
We know we will see you again!
Love you!
Cameron Horsley
March 25, 2015
I've known Garth for quite a long time and there is certainly a lot to say about this great young man. One time I remember in particular is being a 6th grader on the cross country team, and when I would fall behind Garth would always be there as an 8th grader to encourage me and get me through it. Most people when they are running hate everything, but not Garth. He always had a smile on his face, and loved every second of it. It's rare to see someone so young carry themselves with such compassion and joy, but Garth had that intangible I guess. God has always shown through in his life, and he left the legacy most could only dream of leaving. You will always be remembered as a shining light in the midst of a not always so bright world. See ya soon friend. This is only the beginning.
Barbara Burklin
March 25, 2015
We have been blessed to call the Sangree family friends for many years, but we have been especially blessed to be in a small group together for over 10 years. Seeing Garth grow up from a toddler to a young man has been so rewarding. While having only girls we didn't have a lot of play dates with Garth, it was fun to seem in interact with the other kids at our family get togethers. Garth was always such a big brother to all the kids, not just his own siblings. And what an incredible example he became as he grew up. We are truly blessed to have known you, Garth, and you will be so terribly missed. Missed and never forgotten. We know you are sitting at the feet of Jesus right now. What a wonderful, comforting thing to know that!! We love your family!
Gigi Twist
March 25, 2015
To Garth's family and host of friends,
In the summer of 2013, I was fortunate to have the most wonderful, kind, sharp-minded young man work for Upfront Foods. Garth had a busy schedule going to summer school, and teaching or helping with Vacation Bible school at his church, but he was able to "squeeze" in enough time to help us on a major project for developing a Food Safety Plan at our manufacturing facility. He was so bright and focused and took his mechanical engineering background of being precise and disciplined and developed a system for us. Garth was one of the finest young men I have ever met. Even though, we only knew him for a summer, he impacted our lives at Upfront Foods forever. We were so blessed to have spend time with him.
Mary Banta
March 23, 2015
Garth...you are my dear great nephew; you are my sister's grandson. I love you and will always love you. It broke my heart to hear you were missing; I kept saying, NO, NOT GARTH but it was true. I will always cherish the times we got to spend together. When you were getting ready to come and see me a year ago, I asked if there was anything special you would like for me to make for you to eat and you said, "Waffles, Please" which I did make. I enjoyed our visits so much and am thrilled we got to spend some time together. I will always cherish the video of you flying my little helicopter....there it goes, out into the kitchen.....oh, crash. :) LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU GARTH. You were one of a kind. I know Great Grandma Glockzin was there in heaven to greet you; you arrived on her 104th birthday. I hate that you had to leave us. You will always be loved and remembered. Auntie Mary
Chitra Balasingam
March 23, 2015
Garth and I became close friends really fast. From late night study sessions to game nights with friends to celebrating birthdays together. So many of my college memories involved him and I am forever grateful for that. If he had never agreed to let me and our other friend Kat straighten his hair that one night after BCM, who knows if we would have became such close friends. That night was only the beginning of so many more fun filled adventures with him. His time on Earth was cut short but it's okay because as his father told me, "God's plan is eternal and his plan is just beginning." On my last day at UNF before graduating he said he knew that he would see me soon. That will still happen it will just take a little longer now and I'm okay with that. I can't wait until I see him again and he tells me all the crazy fun adventures he has had up in heaven. This isn't a goodbye, more like a see you soon.
Abrianna (abe) Dague
March 23, 2015
The first time I ever hung out with Garth we went for a run on the UNF nature trails, just a simple 3 mile run, or so I thought until we got there and he starts to take off his shoes and proceeds to tell me that he's running barefoot even though the path isn't the nicest to run and this is a usual thing. Knowing Garth now, I know that this was actually a usual thing for him but in that moment I thought I had just met the craziest person on campus. Since then he became one of my closest friends at college and I realize I did truly meet one of the craziest people on campus. From his sarcasm that could keep me entertained for hours to our endless game nights there was never a dull moment when I got to hang out with Garth. His driving skills scared me to no end, but I will confess I may slightly miss the way he stopped an inch from the car in front of him and then would look at me and say something like "I got this" in a weird accent that never really put me at ease. Garth was always adventurous and one of the best listeners around. He could make any situation a little less tense and always was prepared, one time we went hiking and it was around 7 at night and we were just about to leave because the park was closing, anyway Garth, our friend Emily, and I were packing the hammocks up and Garth tells us he's hungry, I was driving so I suggested that we stop on our way back to campus and get something to eat to Emily. Before we can even share this idea with Garth we look back and he's sitting on the sidewalk with a portable burner already out, a pan, silverware, and 3 different packets of food he could make. I still don't know where he could have kept it all during the hike because all he had on him was a small backpack that could barely fit anything. I will truly miss his servants' heart, the ability he had to always make time for others no matter what his schedule looked like and how he could always make me laugh with some weird comment that never made sense.
Casin Arcario
March 23, 2015
Even though I only knew him for a brief time, He made me feel like one of his true friends. Garth was somebody who would always go out of his way to include people. Whether it was going for a quick ten mile run, or playing board games with friends, he would always ask if I wanted to join, even if I didn't know anyone there or how to do something. He was a friend everyone gravitated towards because his presence could light up anybody's mood. I only wish that I would have known him longer, or said yes to more things he asked because he really was a friend worth having, and I can't wait to meet him again and catch up.
March 22, 2015
My mind has been going through the moments I sat at church and saw Garth sitting amongst his friends in the front pews at church. Easy to find with his blonde hair and always towering over his friends. I never got to personally know Garth, but he was part of a community where Christ was the center and a place where God's love poured out to us unconditionally. We were part of a family. In a way it provides us a mirror of heaven, because once again I will see Garth and be amongst a family that is with Christ and praising the love he poured down.
The parting of Garth has brought to my attention the Christ-like traits he possessed. Garth loved the world God created, and showed his love through using the gifts he was given for God's glory. This involved the life of an athlete, a technological genius, and a musician. What will always stick out to me is the presence Garth portrayed as he ran or competed in any race. He was at ease, he was at peace-no matter how challenging the pace or course. A quality so rare and powerful no matter the skill of any athlete. The way he ran paralleled to a life focused on Jesus. One of peace and one at ease graciously following the steps in front of him no matter the difficulty. Garth Sangree has finished his greatest adventure race. He is now cheering on us to come reach that finish line.
To the Sangree family,
Jackie Green
Casey Kunmann
March 22, 2015
Garth Ryan Sangree. Not only the life and laughter of the party, but a kind and compassionate friend to many. He was loved and respected by everyone who knew him. He loved Jesus and his family more than anything. He genuinely cared about the hearts of others. Garth would always check up on me to see how I was doing, and we would sit at Starbucks for hours, just talking. I would get my coffee, and he would get an iced water, a coffee, and a "naked" juice. :) Garth was a leader and a gentleman. I admired the way in which he would gently challenge me in my walk with Christ. He was athletic and persistent. I remember the night he (literally) ran from his house to mine, just to say, "hi". I respected him for his musical talent. I will never forget the joy I felt as I watched him play the clapper in Boca High's performance of "Sleigh Ride" in 2010. Garth, I still can't believe you aren't here with us. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. The world is missing an incredible young man, but I know you are in better hands now and exploring eternity with your Creator. I love you and miss you, Garth, and I look forward to the day I will see you again!!
Gabby Alfieri
March 22, 2015
I've known Garth my whole life. We grew up going to the same church and school. Garth was always was so random which could always make me laugh. One of my favorite memories of Garth was during a night of worship. I clearly remember him raising his arms and worshipping the Lord so intently to "Glory to God" and this made me realize of how much he had a heart for the Lord and wanted to share God's love to others! You will be missed Garth, but we have the hope that we will see you again soon.
Arianna Sigalos
March 21, 2015
Garth, I remember the first day of your senior year and my freshman year at Boca High when you took the time, even as busy as you were, to help me work up the courage to go to cross country practice, even though you barely knew me. You really had a will to be good to people, and a primary love for God and for others. I remember one time at cross country I was sitting all alone, a little shy, and you didn't hesitate to go out of your way to come sit and talk with me. It gave people brightness to see you so passionate but humble about everything you were involved in, and you always tried to get to know people throughout. Whether at cross country or at youth group at BRCC, you always had a way of making people feel welcome and that they had a friend in you. Thank you for always being so kind over the years. We hold you in fond memory as you're with God now.
That time you let me make brownies at your place even though I was (contagiously) sick.
Danielle Davis
March 20, 2015
Garth is someone that I care very much for. He is a great friend, an extremely (awesome) awkward conversationalist, and an all-around intelligent fellow. I met Garth my very first day of college at UNF, he was my RA and the first thing he did was say "HI (cue weird wave of hand) I am Garth and I am your RA, I live behind that door that says my name... obviously. If you need anything or ever have any issues feel free to knock on that door and I will be happy to help." That guy helped a lot. Iv'e been friends with Garth ever since that day. Out of all my friends he was the most observant, he was always keen to something that I said or did, and if anything was ever off (as that did happen) he would never shy away from asking me what is wrong and just listening. Garth knows things about me that I never told anyone simply because he took the time to ask. There are so many memories that I could recount about the times I spent with Garth, but I do not want to ramble. From random Publix runs at night to taking care of toddlers together in the church nursery at Chets, any time that I ever spent with Garth put a smile on my face. I miss him terribly as I am sure his family is even more so.
The wonderful thing about all this is, is knowing that I am going to see Garth again, and the time we spend in heaven will be so much more than that on this earth.
Garth is also the one person that could push me to eat vegetables out of social pressure (for my own good of course).
Garth, man, you are a man for Jesus and I am so blessed by knowing you and having those deep, spiritual conversations with you about the bible and just life in general.
Thank you.
I miss you and love you.
and to Garth's family, thank you for raising such a wonderful and kind man that touched so many lives.
Emily Sakkab
March 20, 2015
My favorite, and sadly, one of my few memories, of Garth was when another friend and I showed up unexpectedly to his RA dorm room about a year and a half ago. He welcomed us in, gave us a mini-tour of his room with real living room furniture (which I was super jealous of), and the three of us just hung out on his couch. It was the first time I saw him outside of BCM, and he was just as bright and welcoming as he was every other time I saw him. He was one of the most godly people I knew, and he really, really spread God's kingdom.
Lisa "mom" Sangree
March 20, 2015
Garth
A policeman called, on that quiet day.
Garth was missing, I heard him say.
I gasped and cried, could this be?
Oh Lord please help, with what's happening to me.
Soon pastor and friends, rushed to my side.
There was shock...disbelief, we prayed and cried.
Then up to Jacksonville, with friends I did go.
Would they find Garth? I wanted to know.
The Coast Guard was searching, but could not find him.
Every hour that passed, the chances grew dim.
The search was then ceased, with no rescue.
Face the loss of my son, was all I could do.
Garth, my amazing boy, and wonderful friend.
It was hard to believe, his time here would end.
The testimoy of his life, spread far and wide.
I've had joy hearing the stories, I've smiled and cried.
My sweet son, is in the arms of Jesus.
Lord please love, comfort and sustain us.
I don't know, when "my time" will be here,
But one day I'll see, my son so dear.
-written by Garth's mom March 2015
Kristen veniard
March 16, 2015
Garth: You cross my mind so frequently. I have no great words for the loss we feel. Lily continues to end her prayers each night, by praying, God please help Mr. Garths family. You were such an outstanding person. I know God has a plan, but we do miss you. Things that stand out in my mind . . .
1. You LOVED your family. I so enjoyed hearing about your trips.
2. Espana - Mike and I laugh out loud whenever we hear this.
3. Your loyalty and reliability were unmatched.
4. Your honesty. Your input in lifegroup was always to the point and good. And we could always count on you for that.
You are deeply missed. We are thankful for the time we had with you. See you, The Veniards
Jean Reece
March 2, 2015
Thinking about you this morning. What an outstanding young man you were. My prayers for your family and loved ones....still.
March 1, 2015
So sorry for your loss of this fine young man. Just reading his obit and shedding tears for your family.
Peace and Comfort to All in Jesus' Holy Name.
Jennie and Andrew Hanssen
February 28, 2015
Garth, among our many fun memories of you, you gave also us an incredibly touching gift: You were our wedding videographer! You went above and beyond what we asked you to do. Besides recording the entire ceremony, you also edited the video and included some fun memories from the reception. You were so dependable, and you gave us a beautiful keepsake of one the best days of our lives. Not to mention, your mom made us an incredible wedding cake! Awesomeness definitely runs in the family.
From the bottom of our hearts Sangree family, thank you. Thank you for your kindness which you shared with us countless times over the years. You are continuously in our prayers.
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