A Tribute to Trent

We lost our hero today. Jesus welcomed our little brother to his heavenly home with open arms. I'm sure Mom and Dad joined the homecoming as well.

Trent was an inspiration to me in so many ways—through his unwavering faith, quiet toughness, selfless devotion to his family, and deep confidence in God’s sovereignty over his life.

Trent battled cancer twice. The first time, he was only 11 years old—an age when no one should have to face such a trial. But he met it with remarkable courage. He never complained, never played the victim. At the time, I was away at college and didn’t get to spend much time with him, but even from a distance, his strength deepened my own faith. He made me a believer in the power of prayer, the community of faith, and in the existence of miracles—and I'm a better person because of it.

In high school, Trent became a team athlete. His physical and mental toughness inspired both his teammates and those watching from the sidelines. He married his high school sweetheart, and together they raised two beautiful twin daughters.

Then at age 38, cancer struck again. This time it required stronger chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. True to form, Trent faced it head-on. And once again, he overcame. Just months after treatment, he ran a half marathon to celebrate life and victory. His family was there to cheer him on.

He was given 24 more years—a gift he used well. He lived fully and faithfully, always centered on his faith and his family. He was a proud and loving grandfather to two young grandsons, and he cherished every moment with them.

He succumbed to cardiac failure ultimately caused by the very same drugs that gave him the gift of a longer life.

Trent will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. But his legacy—of courage, faith, and love—will continue to shape and inspire us for years to come.