Loren William Weaver

Loren William Weaver died at age 24 in Austin, Colorado, on August 27, 2024. He was born on August 7, 2000. He passed away at home from complications of Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome Epilepsy. Loren lived in Delta, Colorado, since he was 4 days old. In 2018, he moved to Austin, Colorado. He attended Lincoln Elementary School and then was schooled at home during his middle and high school years. Throughout his education, he had loving and caring aides and teachers who had a wonderful impact on his life. Loren worked hard to grow and reach his full potential.

He loved watching "Veggie Tales," "Paw Patrol," "Sid the Science Kid," and others. He enjoyed watching Bible stories and listening to the Bible and learned a great deal from them. Curious George books were a favorite as well. He was fascinated by the ocean and all the sea creatures in it, especially sea urchins, and starfish. He also loved flamingos. Most importantly, he loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ for the gift of eternal life he gave us all. He truly reflected God’s light to everyone he encountered. In his younger days, he enjoyed spaghetti, mac and cheese, and chicken alfredo with green beans.

Although he could not speak or communicate, he understood everything and had a great sense of humor, Three Stooges style. He effectively conveyed his feelings with his eyes and body language and was able to get his message across. He lost the ability to walk around the age of 13 but remained mobile despite this challenge. He was a strong young man and endured more than anyone should have to due to his condition. Over the years, he received care from many loving schoolteachers, aides, doctors, nurses, ambulance crews, flight for life personnel, and caregivers, all who treated him with kindness, respect, and dignity. Each of them played an important part in his life.

Loren required full-time care. Palliative Care through Hope West and Pediatric Associates played a critical role in keeping Loren comfortable over the years. His aides were incredibly kind and positive, even though their work was challenging at times. He was quite strong physically. He was also strong-willed: if he didn't want to do something he wouldn't hesitate to let you know.

One of Loren's Palliative Caregivers, Jen, RN, shared her memories of Loren:

“There are moments in this work—moments that etch themselves into your spirit forever. Loren was one of those moments. But more than that, it was the love between him and his mother that changed me.

Loren was a gentle soul. You could see it instantly. He didn't speak, but his eyes told you everything you needed to know. They sparkled when his mother entered the room, lit up with something unnamable—something pure. That kind of light doesn't come from nowhere. It comes from love.

His smile—God, his smile—could stop time. It didn't matter how heavy the day had been or how much pain he was in. When she walked in, he smiled. And when he smiled the whole room softened.”

Loren is survived by his mother, Suzanne Kozakewich; his uncle, Bill Kozakewich; his aunt, Nan Sollo; and nieces and cousins. Loren was brave and resilient, always doing his best. He inspired everyone he met with his cheerfulness and kindness. He was truly a gift from God. He is now talking, singing, walking, running, and jumping with his Lord and Master. Glory be to God in the Highest!