Friday, August 8, 2008

8-8-08

After an effort seemingly more intense than several marathons over the past eleven days, Kyle's body finally gave out and he passed away quietly this morning, August 8, 2008, at 1:50 a.m. Words cannot fully express the appreciation of the family for the outpouring of support from the community and friends. We also send our deep appreciation to the medical staff, especially the nurses of Central Washington Hospital's Critical Care Unit.

Our hearts are broken and we are struggling to cope with the loss of such a wonderful person who had such a bright future ahead of him. A celebration of Kyle's life will be announced in the next few days.

As we came together in support of Kyle after the accident, many of you provided thoughts and observations about Kyle spanning the last 20 years. It was great to hear so many stories about his adventures as well as examples of how he helped others while having such a good time. We encourage everyone to focus on the stories of Kyle's life, how he made a positive impact on those he met, and we hope you share those stories here.

66 comments:

Anonymous said...

Mark and family, There are no words that can lessen the depth of loss you all must feel. Please know that there are more people than you can ever imagine who are sharing your loss. God Bless Kyle with the mansion that the Good Lord promised us all and I pray that God help you all through this time of terrible grief.
Doug Wyman WSP Ret.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for letting us know about Kyle's passing...our hearts are breaking for you all. Words can not express the sorrow of losing someone so young. Take care and may God's blessings be on all of you. The Lee Family

Claire Roach said...

We're so sorry for your loss. Didn't know Kyle very well, but really enjoyed getting to know him better over the Thanksgiving break when you all visited. He struck me as an optimistic, calm, friendly person who was really fun to be around. He was definitely going places and I'm sure he is an inspiration to his friends and family. We would like to try to make it to the celebration of his life so keep us updated. We love you all and hope you make it through this trying time.

Anonymous said...

Mark and family, We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts are breaking for you all. We are praying for you and your family that God help you through this extremely difficult time. You are all in our thoughts. God Bless. Jason & Kristina Knott

Anonymous said...

Mark and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you from the depth of my heart. Please if there is anything at all no matter how small that I can do, let me know.

Love to you all.

Marie Dixon
Fire Protection Bureau, OA3

Anonymous said...

Mark and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you from the depth of my heart. Please if there is anything at all no matter how small that I can do, let me know.

Love to you all.

Marie Dixon
Fire Protection Bureau, OA3

Anonymous said...

Mark and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you from the depth of my heart. Please if there is anything at all no matter how small that I can do, let me know.

Love to you all.

Marie Dixon
Fire Protection Bureau, OA3

Anonymous said...

Mark,

We have all been thinking of you and your family in these hard times and you will continue to be in our hearts while you and your family celebrate kyles life.
Kyle is with you always.

Much Love,
Angie

Annette O said...

Floy Kay & Family We are going to MISS Kyle sooo much stopping by to just say Hi or "Hey can i use your internet",setting on are couch with his laptop. You ALL are in are thoughts and prayers.It was an honor to have that young man in are life's Love Scott, Annette, Cameron, Justin and Cody

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay and family We Are going to miss Kyle Soooo much stopping by to say Hi or "hey can i use your internet" setting on are couch with his laptop. You ALL are in our prayers and thoughts, It was an honor to have that young man in are life's Love Annette, Scott, Cameron, Justin & Cody.

Anonymous said...

Mark and Family,

We are so sorry for your tragic loss. I could not even imagine the depths of your sorrow. It will get better with time and all of you have the strength of your family to get through this.

Keith, Cindy, Brandon and Cameron Huntley

Anonymous said...

ms.arras & family, i am so sorry for your loss.words cannot even begin to say how i feel for you and wish there was anything i could do. i know words cannot heal this pain or change it- but just know we are here for you -in any way- at any time-even if its to just sit and listen.your family continues to be in our prayers and thoughts. Lord be with you in this hard,hard time. jessica decaires and family

Anonymous said...

Mark and Family,

Aunt Charlene and I are so sorry for your loss. I just can't comprehend what it would be like to lose a child. We have been praying for Kyle and the rest of your family since we first heard the bad news. God has a plan but sometimes we just can't figure it out. It will all come together in the end. We will continue to pray for you and your family, love to you and your family.

Uncle Don

Anonymous said...

Kay and family,We so very sorry for your family's loss,You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, Kyle was a great kid.My heart goes out to all of you. Please if you need anything please let me know.
The Tran Family

Unknown said...

We are so sorry over Kyle passing. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family and friends at this heart breaking time.
May your memories bring comfort in the days ahead.

The Durr Family

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts and prayers have been with you all. We are so sorry about Kyle's passing. May God give you comfort at this time.

Our love,
Bob and Judy

Angie Willms said...

Floy Kay & family,

Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. It is a terrible thing to lose a son/brother/grandson & friend, especially when Kyle was such a wonderful person. May God give you strength to heal, and give you courage to continue with your daily lives while cherishing wonderful memories.

Your friends,

The Willms Family

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay & family,

Words cannot express the pain I feel for your family. What a terrible tragedy it is to lose a son/friend/grandson at such a young age... and he was such a wonderful person. May God give you the strength and courage to make it through the next few months & years.

Willms Family

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Kyle well, but my few experiences with him were remarkable. When my parents (The Coopers) were out of town and Sierra was really sick, Kyle stayed with her overnight, kept me updated on her condition and took her to the vet several times. I was really impressed with his compassion and responsibility. He always had such a great attitude! My prayers are with you.
Molly Steere

Anonymous said...

Ty, Floy Kay and Family

Im so sorry for your loss, know that many people are thinking of you all in this hard time. I wish you strength to over come this horrible loss and lots of love!

love Jenni Crosslin

Anonymous said...

Mark and family,
Tears are falling for you and your family from the news of Kyle's passing.I am sure he is looking down on you, so proud of your family for keeping such a positive vigil during the past week and a half. May Kyle's smile and heart live on in his family and friends.

In friendship and in prayer,
Arel Solie

Anonymous said...

Floy kay, Tye and family.


We are so sorry for your untimely loss of Kyle. He was an outstanding individual who we will always have happy memories of . His help in taking care of our pets and doing whatever chores we didn't want to do ourselves was a blessing. He will be missed greatly. His positive attitude, sense of humor and enthusiasm for life was an inspiration for us all.

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Charlie and Nancy Cooper

Anonymous said...

Mark and family. We are so sorry for your loss of a loved one. Just with knowing Kyle for a short time, and only spending small amounts of time with him, you definitely could tell what type of person he was. He had a love for life and for those around him. The Lord has a plan and sometimes they aren't the same as ours. May the Lord be with you during this time and know that you are still in our prayers. Keep up updated on the celebration of his life. We are definitely planning on coming.

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay and family,
I am so sorry for your loss of Kyle. I pray for you to feel comforted in some way, and somehow. He obviously was and is a beautiful person. I can only imagine the pain you feel. You will stay in our prayers.
Esther Dalgas

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay, Ty and family:
Luke and I have you in our hearts and prayers...Kyle was a wonderful young man and friend. It was heartwarming to see how well he and Ty worked together recently getting my hay in the barn. Steady, reliable, strong ...know you will miss him greatly, but he has left a lasting impact on those whose lives he touched. May God's love hold you up. Chris Mallon

Anonymous said...

Please remember, he has left his cocoon and emerged into his true form, pure love and joy. He feels no grief or pain, that is for us to feel here on earth. No matter how much agony you are in now, it will be completely dissolved upon your definite reunion. You must finish your time here, but it will be like the blink of an eye once the time arrives for you see him again. He heard everything you said to him during this past week.
In reverence and love, peace be with you.

Anonymous said...

My sincerest prayers are with Kyle's family. My heart is breaking for you. Only time can ease the pain of the loss of a loved one, but I will continue to pray that God will hold you close and comfort you, and that you will be able comfort each other as you struggle through the difficult days ahead. Lean on each other for strength. My deepest condolences.

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Kyle. There are no words to help releive your pain. I still remember Kyle as a 4th grade student. He was brilliant then, and will continue to be brilliant in heaven. I wish there was something that I could say to help relieve some of your pain. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you, Ty and your mother. I know how much you loved him. I pray that you find peace. With love, the Wilsey's.

Anonymous said...

Arras family and friends-
I knew kyle for 10 years half my life, and through those 10 years i have watched him grow into the wonderful man he was. He had no enemies and he could brighten anyones day weather they knew him or not. I know im preaching to the choir here and there isnt much i can say about this awesome guy that you dont know already. Its the 8th day of the 8th month and the number 8 is infinative just as he will be in our hearts and thoughts forever. Its thundering outside and that to me is gods way of letting us know kyle is at home and they're celebrating up there as we shall down here. Rest in peace kyle you will be greatly missed.
Danika Steinbaugh

Anonymous said...

Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10
Floy Kay and Family
I cannot say anything to make you feel better,but please know that I cry with you and at the same time am in awe of how a young man like Kyle has touched so many around him!I am praying for you all at this time for peace that passes understanding.
Kim

Anonymous said...

Mark,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless your beautiful son Kyle, he lived an extraordinary life. If Adrian and I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to let us know. Our hearts go out to you during this sorrowful time.

Adrian & Anjela Pimentel

The Schuberts in Montevideo, Uruguay said...

When my words again return to me, I will share my thoughts and feelings. Until then, farewell Kyle Arras; it was a pleasure to have known you. Peace to you Floy Kay and family.

Nick Schubert

Anonymous said...

Arras family, my sincerest condolence for your loss. Kyle was an amazing person and a great guy. He will be deeply missed. Life is precious and each day a gift. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and to Kyle now watching from above. Take care.
-Bryan Corbett

Anonymous said...

Kyle was not a complex individual, he was easy to get along with and easy to understand. Through his life he touched many souls, including mine. Not only was he a great person, but he was one of the few who displayed his caring openly amongst the friends and family he loved so much. I am happy to say that I do know this soul, and he will be greatly missed.

Sean Sanders

Anonymous said...

Arras Family-
kyle was such an amazing person, and an all around great guy to know. he was such a nice person with so many goals ahead of him. it is horrible to hear of your loss..we prayed for kyle everyday after the accident..you are all in our thoughts and prayers. he is now looking down on us in a better place. we are all going to miss him so very much.
-Jeff & Karen McDonald, Shasta, Sam, Micaiah, & Matthew.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss, even after constantly reading the bullitens and keeping as updated as possible it seems unreal that kyle is no longer with us. Ive only known kyle for two years, through the college but what i did know of him was someone that everyone could get along with. I will miss kyle and the joy he brought to my day. He will be remebered. Thank-you for keeping us updated.
Cassi

Anonymous said...

MS.Arras I am sorry for the lose of Kyle.I will pray for him every day. as I hope every one will . I hope you can get though this with the help of god.

love
Trang Tran

Anonymous said...

We did not have the pleasure of knowing Kyle personally, but our prayers were with your family everyday. We are very sorry for your loss. Our prayers will remain with you through this tough healing process.
Tamara & Adriana Blanchfield

Anonymous said...

We are so sorry for your loss and want you to know that we will continue to keep you in our prayers. I know that Kyle touched many lives here in Entiat and will be missed.

dana said...

Arras Family--
I read all these accounts of Kyle and I can honestly say that they're true. I only got to know him these last few months, and in just that short of a timespan he showed me kindness, unwavering determination, and happiness I shall never understand, and a laugh I will never forget. He impacted my life in so little time; it shows how wonderful a person he really was. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family always--he will always be missed, and always be loved.
-Dana

Anonymous said...

Mark and Family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I met Kyle the first time during student orientation at the college last year, and we hit it off just fine. I always liked hanging around him. We had Psychology 101 together last year as well, and It was always a laugh to watch him stroll into class late...I'll never forget the conversations we had in the Student Senate office, or the laughs we shared...it's still very hard for me to grasp this as I just found out about him yesterday evening. But I know that wherever he may be now, he's probably taking bets on the Olympic Events. HAHAHA! Kyle...I love you man...I'll see you soon...but not yet...not yet.

-Richie

(please take this picture in the link below that I made in honor of Kyle and post it in your MySpace or Facebook)

http://i35.tinypic.com/242hdl5.jpg

Anonymous said...

Mark and Family -

Our hearts are so heavy knowing your sorrow must be overwhelming. Please know we are praying for you and keeping you all close to our hearts in this very trying time. May God bless you and Kyle always and forever.

Mark and Sue Carr

Anonymous said...

Dear Mrs.Arras and family,
sorry for the loss of kyle, whatever you and your family need just call 784-0135. Im sorry because kyle was very special to all of us, and he will be dearly missed by all of us. Rest in peace kyle you will always be in my heart.
love,
Gabbrielle Silliman

Anonymous said...

Dear Arras Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. i had the pleasure of knowing kyle through the college and the student senate. kyle and I were usually playing guitar hero or something against each other and made a great opponent. i will always remember his great attitude and his willingness to help others. he has not only impacted my life but everyone in that entire school. Kyle, u were loved and will be greatly missed. RIP

Josh Subido

Anonymous said...

Mark and Family...

As Doug Wyman said, you have many, many thoughts and prayers surrounding you and your family. What a tragic loss. God bless you all!

Chad McCluskey
Augusta, Kansas PD

Anonymous said...

Mark & Family - I know there is absolutely nothing I can say to make you feel better or make this any easier to bear. Although I never had the fortune to meet your son, it was awesome to get to read everyone's comments and get to know him through the memories they shared.

ELLEN

Anonymous said...

Jamie and family~

We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers and are here for anything you might need in the upcoming days, weeks, or months.

Jenn, James, Gina, and Bruce Tacoma Radio

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay I am so sorry to hear about your son Kyle he was a great kid and he left you with something to be proud of.. all the great memorires of a great guy that he turned out to be. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Just know he is up in heaven and watching you now. He will always be with you. Again Im so sorry.
Christina, JJ and Jordan Perez

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss...I met Kyle at RYLA and remember him as a leader and caring young man. My prayers are with Kyle and his family.

Anonymous said...

Mark and family,

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Kyle's death. We pray that Gods love enfold you during this journey through grief and that your heart and soul find peace and comfort as time passes.

Aloha,
Nick & Heather Gerard

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay, Tye and family,

Kyle's life touched us as we watched him grow into a wonderful person. We think of you daily and hope you find some comfort in knowing he made a difference in our lives.

The Steady Family

Anonymous said...

To My Dearest Family:
Some things I'd like to say
but first of all to let you know
that I arrived okay
I'm writing this from Heaven
where I dwell with God above
where there's no more tears
or sadness there
is just eternal love
Please do not be unhappy
just because I'm out of sight
remember that I'm with you
every morning, noon and night
That day I had to leave you
when my life on Earth was through
God picked me up and hugged me
and He said I welcome you
It's good to have you back again
you were missed while you were gone
as for your dearest family
they'll be here later on
I need you here so badly
as part of My big plan
there's so much that we have to do
to help our mortal man
Then God gave me a list of things
He wished for me to do
and foremost on that list of mine
is to watch and care for you
And I will be beside you
every day and week and year
and when you're sad
I'm standing there
to wipe away the tear
And when you lie in bed at night
the days chores put to flight
God and I are closest to you
in the middle of the night
When you think of my life on Earth
and all those loving years
because you're only human
they are bound to bring you tears
But do not be afraid to cry
it does relieve the pain
remember there would be no flowers
unless there was some rain
I wish that I could tell you
of all that God has planned
but if I were to tell you
you wouldn't understand
But one thing is for certain
though my life on Earth is o're
I am closer to you now
than I ever was before
And to my very many friends
trust God knows what is best
I'm still not far away from you
I'm just beyond the crest
There are rocky roads ahead of you
and many hills to climb
but together we can do it
taking one day at a time
It was always my philosophy
and I'd like it for you too
that as you give unto the World
so the World will give to you
If you can help somebody
who is in sorrow or in pain
then you can say to God at night
my day was not in vain
And now I am contented
that my life it was worthwhile
knowing as I passed along the way
I made somebody smile
So if you meet somebody
who is down and feeling low
just lend a hand to pick him up
as on your way you go
When you are walking
down the street
and you've got me on your mind
I'm walking in your footsteps
only half a step behind
And when you feel the gentle breeze
or the wind upon your face
that's me giving you a great big hug
or just a soft embrace
And when it's time for you to go
from that body to be free
remember you're not going
you are coming here to me
And I will always love you
from that land way up above
Will be in touch again soon
P.S. God sends His Love
as told by kyle arras
danika steinbaugh

Anonymous said...

Arras Family,
Words cant explain what im feeling. Kyle was the best friend anyone could ever ask for. I've known him since 4th grade and even then you knew he was one of a kind. Not one day went by without seeing him smile! He made going to school a blast and he made the bus rides during track bareable. His stories were always so funny. And thats what i'll remember him for, all the amazing things he did and all the people he touched. Im sorry for you loss. God Bless.

~Josie

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay, Ty, and Family,
Im very sorry for your loss. I could not even imagine what your going through. but You're in my thoughts and prayers may God send you the strenght you need. Kyle was a wonderful person who impacted many lives, including mine. He was an inspiration. His optimistic, freindly, caring, and happy personality will be truely missed and remembered. God Bless
Love LuciaVazquez

Anonymous said...

Mark,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I know there are no words that will lighten the loss of such a young wonderful man. Take care and may God's Blessings be with you and your family, during this trying time.

John & Barbara McMullen

Anonymous said...

Dear Floy Kay, Ty and Mark,

What does one say? All I can say is I'm am so so very very sorry for your loss. I had Kyle in a number of clases. He was the kind of student that made teaching fun. The thing I especially apprreciated about Kyle was the fact that no matter how much was on his plate he was always cheerful and never seemed to be the least bit stressed. He was an inspiration to many, students and staff alike and will be greatly missed.
I'm on the road and have been thourgh most of this but have been checking the blog and school email daily for news. I've been praying that God will be with and comfort each of you and will continue to do so.

With Tears
Dan Durr

Anonymous said...

Words cannot express the deep sorrow and sadness we feel for you and your family at this tragic time. You are living every parent's worst nightmare. If only we could understand why God chooses the amount of time he gives us with our loved ones. We have and will continue to keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you and give you strength in this horrific time.

Members of your fellow LE family

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay, Tye, Ruthy, and Mark,
Words cannot express the feelings of those sharing your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at his difficult time.

Carol Ann

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay, Mark, and Tyrel,
I still see Kyle and Ty playing together on the farm in Pullman. Kyle with his devious look and both with tremendous squeals of laughter. Endless balls of energy! These are the memories I will keep.
My prayers of strength are with you all.
Love, Amy (Hanford) Erwin

Anonymous said...

I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. I don't know what else to say - I just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you and all of those that love Kyle.

Michelle Pardue

Anonymous said...

Floy Kay and family: CWU notified the procert instructors of your tragic loss. While I am simply an acquaintance, I wanted to send my condolences. May God bless you all, and shower his love on your son in Heaven.
Tobi Beehler
Yakima

Anonymous said...

From: Joe Degel
To: jonesb559@aol.com
Sent: Wed, 13 Aug 2008 7:17 am
Subject: Re:Arrass'

Barry,
Thanks for e-mailing me. I tried to leave a message for Mark & Floy Kay on the blog, but it won't accept any. If you have contact with them please tell them I have them in my thoughts & prayers. I can't imagine the pain they are going through at this time or what to say to comfort them. Hopefully their faith is guiding them through this heartbreaking time. I don't know what I could do for them from where I'm at, but if you can think of anything Karen or I could do please let me know. As for me, I will be home in a few weeks for leave & should return to the states by Christmas.
Take care,

Joe

Anonymous said...

Sgt. Mark Arras and Family,

I am so sorry for your loss and I will continue to pray for your family in this time of need. God Bless Kyle. He is in a better place now. He is an Angel in heaven looking down on you. If there is anything I can do, let me know.

Robyn Knight
Washington State Patrol

Anonymous said...

My heart aches for you so. Please know my family and I send you much love and support. May Kyle's loving memories bring comfort to you always.

The Michael family.
Patrick, Phylis and Kaleigh

Anonymous said...

Mrs.Arras and family-

I just wanted to say one last comment. Kyle really truley was one of my good friends and although he isnt here on earth anymore I can still feel him. I miss kyle but the memories are what keeps me going, I hope you guys know that i am greatful for you for making such a wonderful soul and giving me the oppertunity to know him, so for that I thank you. I hope you guys get through this just keep in mind he is up there racing climbing and 4x4 with the best now, god bless and thank you again.
Danika Steinbaugh

dana said...

Mark A.

you are welcome.
thank you for reading. i can honestly say that it means so much to me that it means so much to you.

i still pray for you guys.
take utmost care.

-d