New Book about Heather Gross

Alyce Gross, mother to our friend Heather Gross, just published a book about herself and Heather. If you're interested, learn more about The Devil's Fingernail and Heather Aron Gross (published on Amazon).

An avalanche slammed Alyce Gross into a new reality on December 14, 2008, when it killed her daughter. In this nonfiction work, Alyce climbs from the lowest pit to an eleven thousand foot tombstone. Two parts show the dark depths of Sheol compared to the brilliant light shared by her agape filled daughter. Her hope is to inspire the reader to stay in communion with God while facing death and grief. She explains what gave and continues to give her comfort, and she boldly shares her struggle with prayer, faith, and doubt. The second and longest volume is about the deceased daughter, Heather, as told through letters, emails, and Facebook comments from friends showing her unusual capacity for love. A good portion is written by Heather in a small amount of childhood poetry and pros as well as her many entertaining travel emails as an adventurous young adult. A dark side is also shared through some of Heather’s journal entries. Her death, at age twenty-seven was extraordinary and is covered by news articles and reports. Although her challenging life was short, her mother’s hope is that Heather’s example will last long, spread far and wide, and continue to motivate others to live life abundantly as God intended.

5K for Bunny Watson

Hello Bengals!

As many of you may have heard, our dear friend and fellow graduate Bunny Watson Bradley was tragically killed in a biking accident this past July...

Bunny was a beautiful, loving, and selfless friend to so many of us. Her bright, cheerful disposition was truely infectious! I know that many of you felt heartache upon hearing about the accident and wished to let her friends and family know how special you thought she was and how sorry you were to hear of such a great loss. Now there is an opportunity to do just that, come join us at "Run for Bun" a 5K created in her honor.

Bunny had a great passion for physical activity and she encouraged everyone around her to reap the benefits and enjoy it as much as she did. There is no better way to honor and remember her than to get together and do just that...

There will be a memorial dinner and silent auction on the evening of October 8th at Rice-Eccles, then the 5K will be the morning of October 9th beggining at 7:30 at Draper Park. Please visit the website http://www.runforbun.com to register for the race or buy tickets for the dinner.

The money that is raised will all go to Draper Parks and Trails to complete an unfinished portion of the bike trail that will be called the Bunny Bradley Trail.

Please come join us, show your love and support for her and her sweet husband and daughters, and all of her friends and family. All are welcome to participate, runners, walkers, kids on bikes, etc... It will be a very speciel event, and all the more so if we see all of you there!!

Hope to see you soon,
Bunny's friends :)

Draper 5k Run Honoring Bunny Bradley

In case any of you are interested, mark your calendars for October 8-9 and honor Bunny Bradley!

Friday, October 8: Dinner/Auction

Saturday, October 9: 5k at Draper Park

100% of all money will be donated to Draper City Parks and Trails in memory of Bunny.

Details to follow!

Bunny Watson: Thanks Bengals!

Thanks to everyone who sent in Paypal donations over the past few days. We were able to deliver a beautiful bouquet to her family and then donate the rest of the funds to Bunny's charity. Again, Bunny's family is appreciative of all the support they have received during this time.

Bengals, we want to tell you how much we love you guys! We couldn't have asked for a better group of classmates.

And keep in touch! Let us know if you have something exciting happen to you; we want to hear about how you are doing. As always, leave a comment or email us. We hope to see you again here on the blog real soon.

In Memorium: Bunny Watson Bradley

Elizabeth Anne Watson

5/17/81 - 7/14/10

"Bunny" Elizabeth Anne Watson Bradley returned home to her Heavenly Father on July 14, 2010, after injuries sustained while bicycling.Bunny has always been a shining star in the lives of all who knew her because she always saw the good in others. She was a brilliant, loving woman who loved to help in any way she could and always looked for ways to serve others or to brighten someone's day.

Elizabeth Anne Watson was born May 17, 1981. to John Kimball and Barbara Brown Watson, growing up in the Cottonwood Heights area with her three older brothers and her older sister. She loved to be with her family, relishing every family tradition, and always wanting her family close by. Bunny married Luke Harris Bradley on May 23, 2001, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. She loved spending every moment she could with him, and they enjoyed all kinds of activities together--especially travelling. As residents of Draper, they began their family in January 2007, when they welcomed their sweet daughter, Clare Elizabeth. In March 2010, wonderful little Margaret Kathleen (Maggie) was born. Bunny and Luke were thrilled for both of these beautiful daughters to be a part of their lives. Bunny always talked of her love for her girls, and they were never far from her side. She loved being a Mother and thrived on being with Luke and cuddling and teaching her children.

She graduated from Brighton High School in 1999 where she was an enthusiastic cheerleader for three years. At the University of Utah, she affiliated with Chi Omega sorority. Graduating in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science degree, she went directly into her chosen career as a fitness instructor, specializing in Pilates. Bunny continued her training in Stott Pilates and is one of only five Master Stott Pilates instructors in Utah. She loved physical exercise and helping anyone improve their health. A highly regarded Pilates instructor at Xcel Fitness in Holladay for the last 6 years, she thoroughly enjoyed working with and socializing with each client and instructor. She was an avid runner who implemented her training daily and understood the benefits of rigorous physical exercise in everyday life encouraging everyone to join her.

Bunny was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She held many callings in the Church, but most particularly loved her callings in Young Women and Relief Society. Bunny had a deep and abiding testimony of her Savior Jesus Christ and lived by his teachings as an example to all. She had many friends and worked diligently to keep those relationships active. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time on a run, book club or just hanging out with her friends, treasuring them and holding them close. An accomplished cook, she loved to share her treats and entertain in her lovely home. Everybody who came into contact with Bunny remembered her. Whether it was her nickname, her beautiful blonde hair, her dazzling blue eyes, her radiant smile or a small act of kindness, she just made herself unforgettable.

Bunny is survived by: her husband, Luke Harris Bradley; her daughters, Clare Elizabeth and Margaret Kathleen; her parents John and Barbara Watson; her sister and brothers --Mary Jane Price (Taft), John Watson, Jr. (Melody), Michael Watson (Natalie); Luke's parents, Craig and Kathleen Bradley; Luke's sister and brothers - Matthew Bradley, Nicole Sepulveda (Joseph), Seth Bradley (Megan), Jeremiah Bradley (Erin), Zach Bradley (Brenda), Adam Bradley (Angi); Luke's grandfather, Ralph Bradley; and her adored nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by: her beloved brother, David Watson; and grandparents, Mark and Zelda Brown, John and Edythe Watson, Mildred Bradley, Glade and Thora Linebaugh.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 20th at Noon at the Draper Hidden Valley Stake Center, 1450 East Raddon Drive (12000 So.). Friends may call Monday, 6-8 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. 10600 South in Sandy and from 10:00-11:30 a.m. prior to the services at the Stake Center. Interment at Salt Lake City Cemetery. Online condolences at www.larkincares.com

[via source]

Now Taking Donations for Bunny's Family

Hey Bengals,
We've been in contact with Bunny's family and here's our plan of action.

1. We've set up a Paypal donation link on the right side of our blog. The money will be used to send some flowers to the family in behalf of our graduating class; the remainder will be donated to Bunny's favorite charity per the family's wishes.
2. The family is going to compile their own memories, so if you haven't done so already, please send thoughts, stories, and pictures to bunnymemories (at) gmail.com. We'll forward all the thoughts you've already left on our blog or sent to our email, so don't worry about resending anything.

Bunny's family is grateful for the love and support that has been shown to them during this time. Thanks Bengals! We have the best class ever.

Tour de Donut

If you're a cyclist or interested in cycling at all, the Tour de Donut is taking place this Saturday, July 17, in American Fork, Utah. We received a note from them that they will be honoring Bunny at their race.

The Tour de Donut is sponsored by the American Fork Rotary Club.

YouTube Video about Bunny Bradley

Thanks to Crystal Escobar for putting this show together.



"I met Bunny back in junior high. I always remembered her as a fun, happy person. I didn't know her very well, we hung out a few times back in junior high and high school. I last saw her at our 10 year high school reunion last summer. She looked as beautiful and happy as ever. My heart goes out to the entire family, especially her two little girls she left behind."

[UPDATED] What Are Your Memories of Bunny?

We just found out that Bunny passed away this morning and are truly heartbroken to have lost another good friend and wonderful person in our lives. We are working with a member of Bunny's family to see if there is something specific we can do to help as a class. Watch for more updates as we receive them.

In the meantime, we would also like to compile thoughts and stories of Bunny to give to the family, kind of like we did when we remembered other friends at last year's reunion.

[UPDATE]

Please email bunnymemories (at) gmail.com with your memories, stories, and pictures of Bunny! We will put all the thoughts together in a book and give it to her family.

Updates on Bunny

Here's the latest update as reported by KSL.com.

Pray for Bunny Watson Bradley

Hello friends,

This morning Bunny was involved in a cycling accident on Highland Drive in Draper involving two colliding vehicles. We've received word that she is at the University of Utah Hospital on life support. Please pray for her that if possible her life may be spared.

The article is on KSL here. We'll keep you posted as we receive news. We love you Bunny!

In Memorium: Erich Tabert

Erich Thomas Tabert

4/27/1981 ~ 11/17/2007

Erich Thomas Tabert, 26, was born April 27, 1981 in Loma Linda, CA. Our beloved son was suddenly taken from us on November 17, 2007 at the hands of another. Erich had a beautiful smile that lit up any room he walked into and drew people to him. He was easygoing, kind and trusting and had many friends. He was passionate about soccer both as a player and a Liverpool fan. He was a voracious reader, an Eagle Scout, and an avid Star Wars fan. He enjoyed the friendships he made with his online gaming group. Erich graduated from Brighton High School in 1999. He was enlisted in the US Air Force while he attended the Air Force Academy Prep School. He also attended the University of Utah. He is survived by his mother and father, Eileen Mastin Tabert and Herbert H. Tabert, Jr., brother, Herbert H. Tabert III (Chip), sister Natasha A. Tabert, grandparents Thomas and Tomiko Mastin, Maria V. Tabert, and numerous aunts and uncles. Though our loss is tragic, others have already received the gift of life through Erich's donation of his organs. We will miss his presence in our lives but take comfort in knowing that we will be with him again.

Friends may visit on Thursday, November 29, 2007 from 6-8 p.m. at Cannon Mortuary 2460 E. Bengal Blvd. (7600 S.) Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2007, 1:00 p.m. at Wasatch 7th Ward, 8100 S. Top of the World Drive where friends and family may call from 12:00 to 12:45 p.m. Interment after services will be at Mountain View Memorial Estates. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made at Zion's National Bank to the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Scholarship fund in memory of Erich Tabert.

[via source]

In Memorium: Adam Woods

Adam James Woods

06/26/1981 ~ 03/28/2005

Our loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, returned to our heavenly father early on Monday morning, March 28, 2005. Adam was born June 26, 1981 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He graduated from Brighton High School in 1999.

During his short time on Earth, he loved snowboarding, water sports, nice clothes, and cool cars. He spent his last day with us enjoying Easter brunch, followed by a motorcycle ride with his Aunt Leslie. Recently promoted to used car manager at Salt Lake Valley GMC and West Valley Suzuki, Adam was looking forward to a promising career in the car business. He is survived by his loving mother, Elizabeth (Terry) Smith; father, David (Ronda) Woods; brothers, Dave, Jr., and Michael; stepbrother, Nickalaus; grandparents, Ken and Nish Woods and grandpa James Ivory; best friend, Dallas Tolley, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandma Joan "Ginger" Ivory and Aunt Sue Woods Maxwell. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Kamran, Keyvan, and Mehdi for taking care of Adam like a son.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 12:00 noon at Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, 372 East 100 South, where friends may call Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and on Friday one hour prior to services. "Adams, we will love you and miss you forever."

[Via source]

In Memorium: Jaime Wilhite

Jaime Sue Wilhite

12/2/80 ~ 1/17/06

Our courageous daughter, sister and aunt finally found the peace she has been searching for on January 17, 2006 as she passed through the veil, free from the cares and worries of this mortal world. After several years of a heroic struggle against clinical depression, Jaime broke the chains which bound her in this life.

She was born to Nancy Bolton and John Wilhite on December 2, 1980 in Murray, Utah. Jaime was loved by her family and by everyone who knew her. She loved everything that had to do with law enforcement. She loved art, animals, the outdoors, photography, scrapbooking, and most of all - spending time with her family. She always looked forward to playing with her nieces and nephews and they adored her. Family gatherings were the pinnacles that sustained her through the peaks and valleys in this life.

She spent countless hours in service and love for her family and friends. She believed in her Savior and had a testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel. She relied on her knowledge of the Plan of Salvation, knowing that she will see her loved ones who have passed on before her. We have appreciated the many friends in the Willow Creek 2nd Ward, as their friendship, service and love have helped Jaime all throughout her life. We are grateful to the AVCC staff and to Marci Remington for their continual love and support for Jaime.

Survived by her parents; brothers Scott (Becca), Heber, Utah; Brent (Jen), Layton, Utah; Tyler, serving in the Philippines, Bacolod Mission; sisters Wendy Glade (Harold), Highland, Utah; Lori Harvey (Sam), South Jordan, Utah; 12 nieces and nephews; and her grandmother, Vivian Wilhite. She is preceded in death by her beloved grandparents Chuck and Lois Bolton, Billy Jr. Wilhite, her uncle Bob and two of her favorite cats, Misty and Pepper.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 21, 2006 at the Willow Creek 2nd Ward Chapel, 2115 E. Creek Road, Sandy. A viewing will be held from 9:30-10:45 a.m. prior to the 11:00 service. Interment will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. 10600 S., Sandy. Jaime, you will always be in our thoughts. We miss you and love you so much.

[Via source]

In Memorium: Heather Gross

Heather Aron Gross

6/28/81 ~ 12/14/08

Heather was never meant to die of old age; instead she died causing international news. The inbounds avalanche at Snowbird, on December, 14th, ended her life at age 27. She was an avid Snowbird skier and would never want her death to stifle anyone's love for skiing or for the resort. Our daughter did a life's worth of living in her 27 years. Her candle burned brightly but not long enough. She needs the many people whom she has touched, to keep it burning. Her prayer for you would be to remember her goodness and zest for life and continue to share and spread it. Heather had a passion for adventure and learning. Travel was a part of who she was. She open mindedly accepted and befriended people from all over the world. She combined travel and learning with studies in Spain, China, Argentina, and more. She will be deeply missed by her parents, Dennis and Alyce Gross of Salt Lake City, and her sister, Emily Gross, of Ft. Collins, Colorado. Heather left a void that will be partially filled by hilarious memories. Anyone caring to memorialize Heather should make a donation to the Utah Food Bank in her name. As an infant she was baptized on August 23, 1981 into the Body of Christ and anointed with the Holy Spirit at Zion Lutheran Church, 1070 Foothill Dr., where the Celebration of her Life will be held on Saturday, December 20th at 3 p.m. Guests will be greeted as early as 2 p.m.

[via source]

Contribution Update for Heather Gross

New article in the Deseret News today about her life: read it here.

The article states that in lieu of flowers or money, the family has asked that donations be made to the Utah Food Bank. Even if you no longer live in Utah, the Food Bank has several online contribution options that you can read about on their website.

If you would like to send a note to Heather's parents, here is their address:
Dennis & Alyce Gross
2764 Coventry Ln
Salt Lake City, UT 84121-5216

Classmate Update: Heather Gross

Many of us recently learned that the effects of a avalanche at Snowbird ski resort claimed the life of our classmate, Heather Gross. She passed away yesterday afternoon, Sunday, December 14.

For more details you can visit a few news sites:
KUTV news
Deseret News
Salt Lake Tribune

We'll post information about the funeral and condolences as it is made available.

In Memorium: Zach Eastman

Zach Eastman

6/29/81 ~ 12/10/04

Zachary Scott Eastman died in an avalanche December 10, doing what he loved best, testing himself against nature while back-country skiing. He was born June 29, 1981 in Salt Lake City to Scott and Tami Eastman.

Zach was an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Brighton High School in 2000. Zach served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Florianopolis, Brazil. While planning for a career in nursing, Zach was working for Discover Card. Zach was one who really lived every day of his life; each day was a new adventure to be experienced. He was the eternal optimist, a young man who saw only the best in everybody and everything around him. Calling himself a "Wasatch Disciple", Zach aspired to be as stable, as strong, and as beautiful as the hills he loved. Zach is survived by his parents, Tami Eastman of Salt Lake City, and Scott Eastman of Las Vegas. He also leaves behind three younger brothers, Josh, Powell, and Colton, all of whom looked up to him both physically and emotionally. Zach also leaves grandparents, Dan Eastman of Farmington, LaVelle Eastman of Salt Lake City, Dorretta Probasco of Salt Lake City, John L. Anderson, Aiea, Hawaii; plus numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 14, 12 noon at the Brighton 5th Ward, 2561 E. Bengal Blvd. (7600 S.) Visitation will be held Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the Cannon Mortuary, 2460 E. Bengal Blvd. (7600 S.) and Tuesday from 11-11:45 am at the church. Interment Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider contributions to the Avalanche Forecast Center, 2242 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, 801-364-1581, in Zach's name, in recognition of his love of Utah's natural beauties. In the words of Zach's favorite musician, Bob Marley, "every little thing is gonna be all right."

[Via source.]