Lucas "Luke" DeWaard
February 8, 1984 - July 9, 2011

"I wanted to let ya'll know I am still thinking about you. I pray that the up coming holidays bring happiness and great memories! God Bless!"

"Thinking about ya'll as the holiday season approaches. Many prayers sent your way."

"One year. Luke, you are never far from my thoughts."

"With ThanksGiving comming up, i'm been thinking about you alot lately. One of my favorite times of the year, we all sit around sharing are silly stories, majority of them comming from you :), and just having a great time! ThanksGiving isn't going to be the same thats for sure. Miss you cousin!!!"

"I met Luke when he first moved to Lee's Summit,Mo. We lived in the same apartment complex(Amli). And he was a member of the gym I worked at Xtreme Fitness. We became friends immediately, both new to the city. I moved away from Lee's Summit, and tried to stay in contact as best as I could. I only recently found out about Luke. I may not have knew Luke like the rest of you do, but all of my memories of like bring a smile to my face, we had a great time doing whatever we were doing. To his family, you all had a great member of your family. He was always the first to help someone out and he was a genuine person and he will be missed by me and my wife. Sorry for everyones lose. -- Micheal and Jaime Privitt"

"I am so sorry, Dewaard family. Luke was a great kid. To be lost so soon is truly a tragedy. My prayers are with you."

"DeWaard Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of getting to know Luke over a short period of time and al though I had only known him those few short months, the impact he had on me will always stay with me. I talked to him almost everyday at Life Time Fitness with his best friend Nathan and it was for sure my favorite part of the day! He was such a fun loving person who lived his life to the fullest. He was such a great friend to me and was always the one person I'd call if I were having a bad day, his words always had a way of lifting my spirits up. He will forever be in my thoughts."

"Hello Dewaard family, I love the pictures that you have of your son/borther/friend in wonderful rememberance of him, your service was out of this world AMAZING for him and your family. May God walk with you and give you peace today,tommorow and always as you mourn this loss of such a wonderful young man! God Bless, The Joel Skow Family"

"DeWaard Family, I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy in your family. I hope you can find comfort in each other. You are in my thoughts and my heart. "

"7/15/'11 To The DeWaard Families, I didn't know Luke personally but wanted to express my sympathy and prayers to all of you on your loss. Its never easy when a loved one passes but please know he lived a full and rich life. His smile and happy personality will be always remembered by all who knew him and loved him. He lived in the wonderful town of Algona, Iowa which is my hometown. I enjoy going to Algona, Iowa once a year for my family reunion. May God Hold Luke in the Palm of his Hand and May He Rest in Gods Heaven forever. Godspeed Luke-you have earned your crown in Gods Heavenly Skies. With Sincerest Sympathy and Prayers, Mark J.VonBank-Park Rapids, Minnesota.(formerly of Algona, Iowa)."

"DeWaard Family, I am sorry for your loss...Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers."

"I remember him as having a sweet caring soul and someone who was constantly making me laugh. He had an incredible love for his family and had always tried bringing me closer to God. There are so many lives that he's touched and he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his close frinds and family. "

"What do You do When Prayers are Unanswered? Ever feel like your prayers are going no higher than the ceiling? Ever pray passionately for a clear sense of God?s direction in life, and then feel like there is no clue to His will for you? Ever pray that you will find the right one, only to discover an abundance of the wrong ones? Ever pray for someone to get well, only to see them remain chronically or critically ill? Or worse yet, to die? Where is God in all of this? What?s the point of prayer? Should you keep praying, even when there seems to be no response? After his wife?s death, CS Lewis described his profound sense of God?s absence. He described himself as pounding on God?s door only to feel spurned by the silent rejection of the Divine. It was only with time and persistence that Lewis realized that he was pounding so loudly, crying so intently, that he simply could not hear the still small voice of God. In life there are spiritual seasons: times when you can sense God?s presence so tangibly that you can almost feel His breath on your heart; and then there are the dark nights of the soul when God seems emphatically, absolutely absent. Don?t give up on God; God will never give up on you. It sounds cliché, but pray for patience, pray for the stillness of spirit that allows you to discern God presence. Then listen for the sound of God?s voice in the Word of scripture, in the songs of faith, in the prayers of the faithful and the community of believers. And continue to pray? "

"DeWaard Family, I am so very sorry to hear about Luke. I had the pleasure if knowing Luke and knowing his wonderful outlook on life. He always wore a smile on his face that was so infectious. My heart hurts for all of you close to Luke, he was a wonderful man. "

"Duane, Julie and family - I don't know what to say that hasn't already been said. Hope you take comfort in reading these tributes that Luke had a profound impact on other peoples lives. He was a great guy with a witty sense of humor and will be greatly missed. Please know that Katie and I will keep you and you family in our thoughts and prayers."

"Where to start... I have spent the past year & a half of my life dedicated to the goofiest man ever. My heart is completely broken & I'm hurting beyond belief. Luke had so much personality, love, and humor. The things he would say around me would shock most people. Looking at him, you'd never imagine hearing him talk in a bubbly baby voice. He did this all the time. He would watch the news every morning... and he'd repeat what the news anchor was saying...but in a really funny voice. We would put on facial masks together & he loved every minute of it! I introduced him to my nail file that has multiple sides to buff, polish, & shine... He was hooked the moment he saw it! Of course he'd never admit it to anyone else, I thought these things were hilariously cute. Last summer we went to Lake Okaboji in Iowa... He spent the entire weekend on the tube. He lived life to the fullest & made everything he did fun in one way or another. I'm thankful that I was able to show Luke what it's like to feel genuine, caring love from a woman. I'm thankful that I was able to share with him our very own Christmas tree together last year. Nothing was better than listening to Christmas music, hanging ornaments, & spending time together. I know I tried to go above & beyond to show Luke my love & I feel at ease thinking that he was able to experience something that can often be so rare. My heart is heavy & I am struggling to accept what has happened but I know that Luke is with our Heavenly Father & he is having so much fun right now. He is in paradise & we have to keep reminding ourselves of that. Duane, Julie, Liz, Ben, and Emily: I love you so very much & I hope that I have touched your lives in some way. I want you to know that I will forever be here for you & you will always be in my heart, thoughts, & prayers. Love, Kensie"

"DeWaard Family - I am so sorry for your loss. I only had the pleasure of meeting Luke once, but I have heard many stories about him. My dad was Luke's partner at IP&L for the last year and a half. Luke made quite the impression on my dad; dad thought very highly of him. Dad always had Luke stories to tell that would have us all laughing and shaking our heads. For my part, I'm very thankful for and grateful to Luke. He really looked out for my dad, just as dad did for him. Knowing dad and Luke were out there working together, we didn't worry. From what I know of Luke from dad and his stories, he was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. "

"Luke and the whole DeWaard Family, you've been like family to me and mine since before I can even remember which makes something like this even harder than I could ever imagine. Like many others, I think Luke was a mountain of a man, and I mean that figuratively and literally :-). When he was around, his simple presence made many gravitate towards him while his SMILE filled the room, but after experiencing his kindness towards others, gentle being, and fun nature I found his presence addicting. I can't begin to express my sadness with his passing but I know that my hurt is nothing compared to what you as parents, grandparents, & siblings are going through. Right now I can only tell you that any time you ever want to remember Luke by telling me more about him that I didn't experience, or listening to some of the experiences I've had with him, you know I will be here for you like you have been there for me all these years. I also hope you find some comfort in knowing that we (you especially), as parts of Lukes life have one of the best angels EVER looking after us. Sarah & I will Pray that Strength, Comfort, & Peace never lack in your lives as you move through them with us by your side and with Luke looking over you... When I think of Luke I will always SMILE and I hope that someday soon, you do too... Love Always"

"DeWaard family you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. "

"Duane and Julie: So sorry to hear of your loss. I am thinking of you both and your family. I know there are no words that can ease your pain, but just know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Love, Kathy Danger Hennick"

"Luke and DeWaard family - My thoughts and Prayers go out to you all. I am so sorry for your loss. Luke was a great guy with the biggest heart. He had a smile that could brighten anyones day. Luke, you will be miss dearly. Thanks for all the great times we were able to share, they will never be forgotten! "

"I didn't know Luke personally, but our paths frequently crossed at the gym in Lee's Summit. In my occasional interactions with him, he was always friendly and polite, and the guys who worked out with him made it obvious that he was well liked and respected. I'm sure that Luke will be missed greatly by family and friends, and it's unfortunate that others, like me, will never get the chance to know him better."

"Duane, Julie, & Family, Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time."

"In high school, Luke was the guy that I wanted to be. He was smart, he was funny, and all the girls had crushes him. More than that, though: he was kind. Luke was the first person I met when I transferred to Seton in the sixth grade -- he showed me where the bathroom was. In all the time that I knew him, I never heard him say an unkind or untrue thing about anyone. He was a young man of supreme integrity. There is nothing that can be said to assuage the enormity of his loss, but it might be of some consolation to know that everyone who ever met Luke will miss him."

"I went to lineman school with luke in sheldon and had the pleasure of getting to know him, i'll never forget how nice and laid back he was, he always had a good attitude no matter what was goin on he struck the soul of everyone he met he will definitly be missed. His family will be in my prayers."

"I first met Luke at Xtreme Fitness. He said he just moved here, so I had the pleasure of being one of the 1st people he had a chance to meet. He was a great person. He always had a smile on his face and was down to have fun no matter how boring the situation. He definitely made the people around him in a better mood and was a good person to be around. For all people that knew him and all the people that hadn't had the chance yet this is truly a huge loss. His family are in my prayers. "

"I am a leasing consultant at Summit Ridge Apartments where I had the pleasure of meeting Luke and both of you a few years back. I have several great memories with Luke-one was when he took me to his church in Lees Summit along with the many conversations we had about the Lord. This is the only thing that gives me comfort, knowing without doubt that he is in heaven and that we will all see his beautiful face again one day. Although his life was cut very short, the time that he was here was very special in part b/c of the wonderful partents and family he had. He always talked about how he had great parents and loved his family so much. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and your entire family. I know he'll be watching over us all! "

"Duane, Julie, and Family - "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." (Rev. 21:4) I have been clinging to this verse since I heard the news of Luke; and I try to take comfort in the fact that we will be reunited with Luke someday in heaven! It will be a wonderful celebration! Luke will be greatly missed, though. I will all miss his gentle, kind spirit, and of course we will miss his goofy sense of humor. You guys have been and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Love you all."

"Luke was one of the most laid back, go with the flow individuals I ever had the honor of meeting. He always had a smile on his face, and always was high on life! He will be missed by many throughout his connections of friends and family. Love you brother!! "

"Luke was one of my best friends.We recently spoke about how fast life goes by. He had mentioned several times of how he wanted to fall in love, get married, start a family, and move closer to home. There's no doubt in my mind that he will find his true love in Heaven. We shared many great times and a million laughs together. Though we didn't see each other as often as we would have liked, I always knew he was there for me. He was truly a wonderful friend, there won't be a day that goes by that I won't think of him. I miss you so much buddy. The entire DeWaard family is in our thoughts and prayers. "

"My favorite picture of Luke is an old one. He was a ring bearer for a wedding, maybe 8 years old. The picture is just him in his little tux by an evergreen tree, but it captured his shyness and sweetness that I hold dear. Luke grew into an amazing young man with grace and warmth and a wicked sense of humor. The world is less without him. "

"I will miss his smile, his beautiful heart. He wwas ther for me when I needed an angel...and thats was he was.luke I will miss you."

"Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Luke was always a willing volunteer at school. He was pleasant, kind, willing and capable. I always knew I could depend on him to get a job done. It is a both a blessing and a privlege to know him and your family. Hold on to your faith, you'll need it know more than ever. The Elbert's - Jay & Di, Neal, Mason, Tony, Katie, Riley & Rory Elbert."

"I only knew Luke as my customer at Celsius. I haven't seen him in the last few years, but he had a big heart, and was nice to everyone. All of us here that knew him feel for your family, and will keep you in our prayers. "

"Duane, Julie and kids - This is a quote by Maya Angelou that I love - "It is healthy and honorable to weep at the loss of someone we love. Healthy because such passion must be released, Honorable because it is respectful to admit the importance of people who have loved and supported us....people whose foot prints cannot ever be matched". God be with all of you! Love - Pete and Nancy"

"Julie, Duane, Ben, Liz and Emily, Words cannot begin to say how profoundly sorry we are upon hearing of Luke's untimely death. You are in our thoughts and prayers and will continue to be."

"Dear Duane, Julie, and Family, I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Linda Schuster"

"I am truly sorry to hear of Luke's senseless and tragic death. Your whole family is in my thoughts and prayers."

"Duane & Julie, So very sorry to hear that you have lost your son. Jake called to let me know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time in your life. He is in a better place, always remember that. Paulette & Pete Lukanich "

"Emily and DeWaard family, It is difficult to put into words how deeply sorry I am during this tragic loss to your family. I grew up for a lot of years with Luke and Emily and have many great memories with your entire family. Your in my family's constant thoughts and prayers and we wish you all the peace and comfort during this difficult time. "

"I knew Luke for short time when I worked for Aquila but he left a lasting impression. As a mother of a son his age my heart goes out to you. May you find comfort and peace in knowing he is in heaven with God. "

"Duane, Julie and family, our hearts go out to you all on this terrible tragedy! Your whole family will be in our prayers."

"Having lost our dear son, Bradley, in 1983, we know the agony you must be going through. Please be assured, Duane and Julie, that you are held in prayer and thoughts by not only us but by your many friends. May God's love comfort you."

"I am so sorry to here of your tragic loss. There are no words I can say to ease the pain. Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. The thing I remember most about Luke was his beautiful smile. "

"My family would like to express our deepest sympathies for the Dewaard family. Luke was such a great person and it is truly a tragedy that he was taken from this earth so early in life. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Jason, Tansy and Maddilynn Wilson"

"We are very sorry to hear of Luke's passing, it was so uncalled for. What a great man has been put into Gods hands. even though you no longer have him with you in life, you will ALWAYS have him in your heart. Luke's friend and co-worker Russ Brink & wife Janane Brink"

" Duane Julie and family,prayers condolences and strength to each and everyone of you!"

"I got to know Luke over the past year and a half through my sister, McKensie. He was a very friendly person, and a person who worked hard. I always thought if everyone could be as focused and driven as him, we would have a better world around us. Though he is not here, I think he will live on through the things he showed us. It was always nice to have him stay with us for the weekend. My 3 year old son really looked up to him. Luke even watched Titus a couple times when we were in Kansas City. They always enjoyed each other. I dont think we are all here by accident, and I think Luke was the perfect example of our purpose."

"Julie & Duane and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are weeping with you in your loss. Our Lord is with you and cares deeply about your pain. When I try to find the words to help comfort you I am lead to the verse in Psalms. Hear my cry, O God: Attend to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I will cry to You. When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:1-2. I pray that you and all of us hold on to the truth that our Lord Jesus paid the price for us that this life is not the end for us that Luke is with our Lord perfected and we too will be in heaven with him someday rejoicing together. Our love and continued support will be with you. Julie & Scott Krause "

"DeWaards- Luke was a great friend to us. We have a lot of great memories of Luke and all the good times. Even though we have lost touch in the past few years, it's been a true pleasure knowing Luke. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Rest in Peace Luke and look over us. "

"Duane, Julie, Ben, Liz, & Em~ I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Luke. Even though it's hard to see past all of the pain right now, I hope that all the great memories of Luke will help you get through this tough time and in the future. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you."

"DeWaard Family, I am so very sorry to hear of this very sad news. Luke was such a great guy. He always had a smile on his face no matter what. I got to know him pretty well my junior and senior years when we had class together as well as a lot of time spent on the football field. He was a great athlete and loved playing along side him. The world lost a great man and a friend to many!"

"Dear DeWaard family-- I am so sorry for your loss. There is no greater pain or loss than that of one's own child. It just isn't right. I'm praying for strength and peace to get you through this terrible time. God speed, Luke, and God bless you all. I too lost my child (Sylvia) 2 years ago so I know a little of what you are going through. Again, I am so sorry for your loss. (I went to Garrigan with Ben and Liz--Class of '98. Ben & I also went to colleges in Dubuque.)"

"Our heart goes out to you and your family. You are in our prayers."

"I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Luke was a great guy. Like so many others have said his smile lit up a room. I remember when Luke, Andy, and myself transferred to Seton in 4th grade. The first few weeks were pretty overwhelming with a new environment and new people, but we all stuck together and got through it together. He was such a nice guy and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him."

"Dewaard Family--I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Luke from the gym......and am just so saddened by this. Thoughts and prayers are with you. "

"We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts"

"To the Dewaard Family: I am so sorry to here about your loss. Your whole family is in my thoughts and prayers. You have my deepest sympthy."

"Luke was in my brother in-laws wedding, I didn't know him well. The times I was around him he always had a smile on his face. Anytime we ran into each other at the lakes he would come over and say hi or chat even tho he didn't know me well. He was a very nice person. I can see why Matt was friends with Luke. My thoughts and prayers go out to Lukes family."

"To the DeWaard family My deepest sympathy to you all. May the comfort of memories and friends guide you through your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

"To Luke's Family: I am so sorry for your loss. I was one of Luke's classmates at Ottawa University. We had taken several classes together and gotten to know each other. We made each other laugh and I loved the way Luke always had a smile on his face. He was so full of life and had such positive energy. We always laughed about the way he would "shake" the vending machine on break and come back to class with his free goodies. He will be so missed. What a special special person."

"Dear Dewaard Family: Luke was a resident of mine at New Longview and I got to know him well. He had a contagious smile and sweet soul. My thoughts, prayeres, and deepest sympathies are with you."

"DeWaard family my heart goes out to you. He carried with him a greatness. I fought against him on fields, but his great character shone through. I could call him my friend but him I barely knew. For how hurt I am for losing someone so far, just shows the greatness he had to touch someone he barely knew. The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity; he enters into peace; they rest in their beds who walk in their uprightness. Isaiah 57: 1-2"

"DeWaard Family I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers and you have my sympathy. I was fortunate enough to share many laughs and smiles with Luke while at Kirkwood."

"Our thoughts go out to Luke's friends and family. He was a long time member of Xtreme Fitness and was lost to early in life."

"Dewaard Family, I am thinking of you during this most difficult time and praying for God to give you the strength to get through this. My God bless all of you and bring Luke into the Kingdom of Heaven for eternity. "

"DeWaard family-- no words can help ease the pain of losing a wonderful young man like Luke. Every time I seen him he had that contagious smile that would brighten your day. Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers"

"Emily, I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers."

"Duane, Julie, Ben, Liz, and Emily - my thoughts and prayers are with you all and everyone who Luke's life touched. God is our refuge and strength. Lean on Him and each other."

"Ben, Melssia and DeWaard family. You have our deepest sympathy in Luke's passing. Know that you are in our prayers. May the Lord's presence and peace be your strength. Isaiah 26:3"

"Julie and Duane, I manage New Longview Apartments. We all loved Luke very much. I am so very sorry for your loss. Our prayers from Fogelman and his friends from AMLI are all with you. "

"Julie, Duane and family, Steve and I offer you all are deepest condolences during this most difficult, sad loss of your son Luke. I remember Julie when you worked with me at Fareway and all the love you had for your children! You and Duane were amazing, caring, and truly involved with your children and their lifes! They were your number one priority in life~ be proud of that and how your kids know they are loved!! We will keep you close in our prayers and lean on God to help you through these most difficult sad times ahead."

"Duane and Julie: you have our deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences. You will be in our thoughts and in our prayers. Luke was a "TRUE" friend, someone who was always full of life and had a contagious smile. I will miss you my good friend you will always be in my memory."

"DeWaard family- I am very sorry to hear of your loss. We will keep your family in our prayers and hope that you can find comfort in the wonderful memories you have of a great son and brother. "

"Julie, Duane, and Dewaard Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We are sorry for your loss. Luke was a great person, a great friend, and he always seemed to brighten your day. He will be deeply missed."

"DeWaard family, I'm so sorry to hear about Luke. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this time."

"Duane and Julie: May you find peace, may the love of friends and family sustain you, and may God grant you strength to endure the tragic loss of Luke. With deepest sympathy. "

"Duane, Julie and family, We are so sorry for you loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. "

"My deepest sympathy to the entire DeWaard family. Luke was the kind of classmate one was lucky to have. Genuine and kind, smart and athletic, respectful and honest. For some of us it may have been years since we have seen each other, but our class is like a small family whom we'll never forget and always care for. I hope you can understand what I can't express with words, my thoughts and prayer are with you and GOD bless. "

"Luke was a great student, an excellent athlete, and a hardworking young man. He always had an easy smile that brightened your day if you were lucky enough to cross his path. My deepest sympathies to the Dewaard family."

"We are very thankful to have known Luke. What a genuine, hard working and kind person. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his friends and family. Love, Christy and Mike Wright Lee's Summit, MO "

"Dewaard Family, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this time."

"Duane, Julie, Ben, Lizzy and Emily, I am so very very sorry to hear about Luke. Please know that you are in my thoughts. "

"Your love will live forever in the hearts of those you leave behind, and your memory will never fade. I love you bro. "

"So sorry to hear of the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you. My deepest sympathy. Inez Eden"

"I will always remember Luke as a genuinely kind young man with a warm, ever present smile. Luke was a great teammate, and I am happy to have had the opportunity to wear the Black and Gold alongside him. Rest in peace, buddy."

"Luke was one of my first friends when I transferred to Seton in 4th grade. He was a great person who was very talented. He was very kind to others and what I remember most about Luke is that he always had a smile on his face. I was absolutely shocked and deeply saddened when I heard this horrible news. My heart goes out to the DeWaard family, and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time."

"I want to give to all of Lukes's family my deepest sympathy. You are in my prayers and thoughts. "

"My heart and prayers go out to the DeWaard family. Luke was an amazing guy and I was lucky and blessed to have met him! He was truly a genuine person, gave great advice, worked hard, was always happy, and always had a SMILE on his face. He will be missed here in Kansas and Lifetime Fitness won't be the same without you Luke!"

"Just as beautiful on the inside always took time to stop & talk & even to my little guys at the Gym or at church.He's such a gentleman who has touched the heart of so many! & He sure loved his mom! I am so sorry! "

"DeWaards you are all in my thoughts and prayers, You have my deepest sympathy. "

"Dwayne and Julie, I'm so sorry about Luke. I didn't know him well, but I know how you must be feeling and wish I could do or say something to help. I will be at the service Friday. Gary & Ann"

"Ben, Liz, Duane, Julie and Emily - I am very saddened to hear of your loss. I cannot imagine what you are going through right now. You are in our thoughts and prayers."

"DeWaards, You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this devastating time. God bless. "

"To the DeWaard family, I am sorry for your loss. You raised Luke to be a great man. He had a great sense of humor and a continual smile. He will be missed by so many. I send you prayers of comfort and understanding. "Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted." - Matthew 5:4 "

"Rhonda, Tyler and I would like to express our deepest sympathies to the entire DeWaard family. We were truly heartbroken to hear about Luke. He was so genuine, with a contagious smile. He will be deeply missed by all of us! May God bring your family peace during this very difficult time."

"Our deepest sympathies to all the DeWaards family and extended families. May God be with you."

"I was sadden to learn in class tonight that Luke had passed away. He was such a nice kid and a great guy to have classes with. He added so much hidden rumor to each class. He will be sorely missed at school. My thoughts and prayers and heart go out to his family and friends!!"

"Duane, Julie, Ben, Lizzie, Emily, Paul and Betty. I am at a loss for words as there are none that can convey the heartfelt sympathy I feel for you all! Please accept my prayers, sent up on your behalf, for God's Peace and Love to be shed on you! In Jesus name, I pray! All my love, Debi Alphs"

"I had two classes at Ottawa with Luke and he was very bright and funny. His family can be proud of the Great person they raised. My family and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy. May GOD be with you in your time of sorrow."

"I am so sorry to hear of this news, my prayers are with your family."

"I'm sooo sorry for your loss. I'm McKensie's very close cousin.. I have know luke for the past year and a half. He will be greatly missed!!! My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of greif. "

"I'm gonna miss you Luke! You were a heck of a guy to be around! My prayers go out to your family! This is hitting me hard. I can't even imagine their sadness. Rest in peace buddy!"

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dewaard family. We are so blessed to have known Luke, he was such a great person. He will truly be missed."

"To the whole DeWaard family. I am so saddened for you loss. I pray for every kind of peace, love and healing that God can fill you with. As many hard things in life that I've seen, there is no way I know what you are feeling. May the love and prayers of others lift you up to help you through. "

"To the family of "Luke". On behalf of everyone here at Ottawa University in Overland Park, Kansas, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy. Luke always had a smile on his face and strived every term to do his best! He was notorious for jokingly asking me to enroll him in the easiest classes even though he excelled in every class he ever took. Luke was a part of the Ottawa University family and always will be. He will truly be missed, but never forgotten. May God be near you all at this difficult time. Sincerely, Amanda Bien (Advisor)"

"I knew Luke in middle school as a great kid with a great arm and man was he fast. I moved away and did not see him for many years. Recently our path crossed again and for a few months we got to know each other again. I am very greatful for those short months. Luke had a great presence and a calm demenor that made you want to talk to him. We will all miss him in KC and in Iowa. God Bless. "

"My thoughts and prayers are with the Dewaard family during this very difficult time. My heart hurts for those he was closest to and will be missed by many."

"Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you and your whole Family."

"DeWaard family, My deepest and most sincere sympathies. Please know that I am sending prayers for all of you at this time. Luke was such a delightful young man. He was always so outgoing and happy when I had him in class. I know this is such a difficult time,keep your faith and trust in the lord. God bless all of you. "

"DeWaard family, you have our deepest sympathies & condolences. Luke was a great guy to know & he will be greatly missed by many. His memory will live on & he'll live in our hearts forever. The Anderson family: Gary Sr., Jessie, Tammie, Mariah, Brittany, Lindsay, & Sassy"

"DeWaard family, so sorry for your loss, Luke was a great guy, he will be truly missed by a lot of people"

"To the family of "Luke". On behalf of all the members and staff of I.B.E.W. Local 53 I extend our deepest sympathy for your loss. Luke was not only a great member and brother, but he was also a great lineman who took a lot of pride in his trade. He will be dearly missed by all."

"Ben, I was so saddened when I heard. Casey & I have and will continue to be praying that God rains down the Peace that surpasses all understanding upon you and the rest of your family during this difficult time. Like you, Luke expressed only genuine kindness to me. I will remember him for the excitement filled smile that always shone so brightly from his face. Love to you and yours. Andy & Casey Clements Family Elmwood, NE"

"Duane, Julie, Ben and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers."