Gavin Michael McKenna: A Life Well-Lived
On August 30, 2023, the world lost a bright light when Gavin Michael McKenna passed away at the age of 17. Gavin was born on October 24, 2005, in Pittsburgh, PA, and grew up in Kansas City. He was a passionate sports fan, especially of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Iowa State Cyclones. Gavin was also a gifted student who loved math and science and had dreams of becoming a doctor.
A Life of Love and Positivity
Gavin was known for his easy-going nature and kind heart. He made friends easily and loved spending time with others. Although he could be quiet at times, he had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. Gavin enjoyed playing games, building with Legos, watching movies, and spending time with his family and friends.
Over the last five years of his life, Gavin battled osteosarcoma, a relentless form of cancer. Despite his illness, Gavin never let it define him. He lived his life with love and positivity, inspiring those around him to do the same. Gavin's family learned so much from him about living with grace and resilience, and they will forever be grateful for the time they had with him and the love he gave them.
Remembering Gavin
Gavin passed away peacefully on August 30, 2023, surrounded by his family who loved him deeply. He is survived by his parents, Matt and Sherri McKenna, his brothers Aiden and Colin, his grandparents Dottie and Chuck Belonzi, his great grandmother Charlotte Latta, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Gavin was preceded in death by his grandparents Christine and Michael McKenna, who will be welcoming him with open arms into heaven.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, from 6-8:00 PM. The funeral will be on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 3:00 PM. Both services will take place at Holy Family Catholic Church in Kansas City, MO. A reception will follow the Funeral Mass, and burial will be at a later time. For those who cannot attend in person, Gavin's funeral will be livestreamed at www.holyfamily.com/funerals.
Honoring Gavin's Memory
In lieu of flowers, Gavin's family asks that donations be made to Children's Mercy, the Sarcoma Foundation of America, or MIB Agents Osteosarcoma Alliance, which funds research to end this terrible disease.
Conclusion
Gavin Michael McKenna was a remarkable young man who touched the lives of everyone he met. His love, positivity, and resilience in the face of adversity were an inspiration to all who knew him. Although his time on this earth was too short, Gavin's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
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