November 16 1981 (Victoria BC) – April 4 2017 (Exeter ON)
The candle burns low. Adam’s work here on Earth is complete. Adam took his last tractor ride on the streets of Hensall with Charlie this past fall. Surrounded by family, Adam died at South Huron Hospital Tuesday, April 4 2017.
Adam was a teacher. Adam taught love, humour, courage, and grace—his lesson imparted with a ferocious laugh, a twinkle in his eye, and a gentle touch. Frederick Arthur Simmons (2010), Adam’s father, will meet him with arms wide open. Adam’s mom Judy (Burke-Mallette), dad Chuck/Charlie (Mallette), sisters Jane (Tyler), Ann (Dan), brothers Jay (Tonille), and Allan, niece Maggie, and nephews Korbin, Lucas, Cristian, and Benjamin survive him. Adam, we loved you well. Adam is the beloved grandson of the late Frederick George Simmons (1973), Edna Margaret Simmons (2007), Margaret Mary (Molly) Burke (2016), and John Burke (London). Many aunts, uncles, and cousins loved and cherished Adam: Jo-Anne (Ward), Michael (Deanne), Carolynne (the late Jim), Kathy (Brad), Gary (Lynn), and cousins Sunny, Jayden, Maria, David, Colette, and their families.
Others have cared for and supported Adam. To name only a few, we extend thanks to Huron Apothecary, Dr. Warren Blume and his wife Lydia (London), Dr. Sean Ryan (Exeter), UH Pacemaker Clinic (London), CCAC, Saint Elizabeth, and the communities of Exeter and Hensall.
Adam spent the past week at South Huron Hospital. You cared for our Adam, you held our hands, and you were our shepherd as we approached Adam’s final days. Thank you to housekeeping, food services, and the medical team. You are indeed The Little Hospital That Does. We thank you all. In the past seventeen years, we have shared Adam’s care with Community Living South Huron. Here Adam gained independence, strength, and lifelong friendships with Joe, Debbie (2014), Harold, and so many others. To the support team, there were no bounds to your commitment, care, and expertise. You are our community. We can never say enough about the contribution you made to Adam’s life—to us, his family. We will miss you more than you will ever know. Thank you.
And finally, Adam loved Tuesday nights. For more than 13 years, Tuesday meant ping-pong and an evening of laughter and hilarity in the basement with Charlie, friends Bill Weiss and Dan Holm, and Uncle Michael Burke—no girls allowed! In the early years, Judy took over if Adam needed a drink, a clean shirt, or care during a seizure. As the years progressed, these men brought Adam into their fold. They made sure he had his beer and chips; they lifted him up and held him when the seizures took over . . . They shared Adam’s journey in these past several months in ways that many cannot imagine. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Friends may call at the Haskett Funeral Home, 370 William Street, Exeter (1 street west of Main) on Friday evening 5-8 PM. Please gather at Ironwood Golf Club, 70969 Morrison Line, Exeter on Saturday, April 8th at 10:30 AM for a brief celebration of Adam’s life, which will be held at 11 AM. A reception and party that Adam would love will follow. Cremation with a private family interment Exeter Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please take a page from Adam’s book: offer a random act of kindness, sit with a friend, greet a stranger, or sing along with Blue Rodeo at the top of your lungs. Condolences may be forwarded through www.haskettfh.com.
Now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince,
And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. (Hamlet V, ii)
Elizabeth and Gary Nordstrom
Judy. I am so sorry to hear that Adam has passed away. It has been many years since we have seen you. Thank you for all the photos on his obit that has allowed us to see how he has grown. Oh how you will miss him! May your memories ease your sorrow. Our condolences to you and all of your family. Elizabeth and Gary
Sandra Newton
Dear Judy, My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this painful time. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Adam. But from what you told us in your obituary, I know how much he was loved and will be missed. I enjoyed your slide show which gave me snapshots of his life. I’ve never seen a bigger smile, it radiates joy. I pray your treasured memories of Adam will give you comfort.
Cathy Christopher
Dear Judy, I was so saddened to read of dear Adam’s passing. I have so many memories of his birth and early days in Victoria. It was amazing to see the photos of him throughout his life…what a gift he was and what a family you have been to him. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family as you grieve his loss and celebrate his life. Lots of love coming across the country from Victoria, Cathy xo
Anita
Dear family of Adam,
I am truly touched to hear of the passing of Adam, we where neighbors for quite a while and I loved seeing him on his go cart here in town! He always had a smile on his face that was very contagious, he was always happy! My condolences are going out to his family!
Lee Ann Dil
Dear Judy, Chuck and family,
So sorry for your loss and sadness at this time. I wish I had had the chance to meet Adam. I have seen lots of pictures of him on FB over the years and looking at your slide show of him on this website was wonderful. Obviously lots of joy and many happy times over the years… also tough times, struggles and pain. Life can be, is! so bitter sweet. Thinking of you and sending lots of love.
Lee Ann and Pierre and family
Judy Hansen
To Judy and the rest of the family. Also the staff and his room mates and all that new him. He will be missed by all that new him.
I will miss him to. Judy Hansen
Michele Mallette Sherman
Dear Judy and Charlie,
While I never met your precious Adam, I always enjoyed the photos you posted. That smile! I’m sure it lit up the room every time. There are no words powerful or comforting enough for grieving parents. Please accept our condolences for your loss. I’ll be praying for your healing. Peace.
Michele
George and Lois Godbolt
Judy, Chuck, Jane, Ann and all family
Sincere condolences in the loss of a special son Adam. He was known by so many people by his contagious smile. It is a tribute to you that he was so happy in his life and did so well.
Thinking of you at this sad time.
Eryn Sinclair
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane and Ann,
I was so, so sad to hear of Adam’s death…and deeply moved by your words about his life and contribution to the world. Though I hadn’t seen Adam in many years, my memories of him as a child are vivid. He was truly an important teacher with a bright light to share. I have been thinking about all of you throughout this week and certainly about Adam’s reunion with his dad.
Much, much love to you all,
Eryn Sinclair, Andrew, Nina and Beth Tubman
Brittany Revington
As I sat at Adam’s Celebration today, surrounded by his family and friends, I couldn’t help but smile to see so much love gathered in one place. Adam touched everyone he met and it was quite apparent that he has left a piece of himself in each and every one of us. Adam taught me so much; how to love and to care for others, acceptance, strength, courage and happiness. He always knew how to make me laugh, and that smile and belly filled laugh could always get me out of any funk I could have ever been in. I will miss our chats, our laughs and most of all, our car tour dance parties, they will never be the same without him. Sending you all strength and positive thoughts to get through this difficult time, Adam was so blessed to have all of you in his life. Rest peacefully Addy, I will miss you buddy!❤
Tom Hartai
Judy, Chuck and family
On behalf of my family and staff, please accept all of our deepest condolences at this difficult time.
Blessings to you all.
Tom Hartai
Marilyn Taylor
Judy,Jane, Anne and families
I was saddened to read of Adam’s passing. He was always eager to be involved with all the other students at HPS. He especially wanted everyone to know about his boots. He will become everyone’s friend in heaven.
Dawn Cooper
The world is a much sadder place without Adam. Our deepest Condolences to family and friends.
We will miss Adam.
Jessie, Mandy and Dawn
Judy Dougall
Chuck, Judy and all of Adam’s loved ones,
You have my heartfelt thoughts and concerns as you adapt to a live without Adam in your physical lives.
I was delighted with all the pictures of him that you’ve shared. …. lots and lots of pictures.
I remember when Judy came to the strawberry farm with Adam to pick up an order of berries. Adam bee-lined around the car to give me a hug and caused Judy concern over my reaction or perhaps Adam hugging me too hard. I’m pleased to be able to say that “I was hugged by Adam”.
Ralph and Eleanor Smith
Judy, and family. We send you our love and remember the time you came to visit us at our bush. Adam saw the tree house and expressed such joy and excitement. He knew how to live in the moment. If only we could all do that. Much love, Ralph and Eleanor Smith
Kristine Moyer (Pryde)
Thinking of you all at this time. Adam was always full of smiles, life and laughter.
John & Anne Tasker & Michael Annen
Judy, Chuck and family
We wish to extend to you and all your family our deepest sympathy with the passing of Adam. He was a very special young man. May the Lord be your comfort and strength now and in the days ahead.
sincerely John & Anne Tasker & Michael Annen
Paul & Beth Anstett
So sorry to hear about Adam – he exhibited such joy and exuberance for life – we could all learn from his example. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Ken and Kim Pinder
Dear Judy and Family
We were saddened to hear of Adam’s passing. When we think of Adam, we always remember his bike rides with his dad and his dog. He was blessed with a great family. Adam will be missed by so many. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.
John & Sharon McNeilly
Dear Judy and family.
We are very sorry for your loss. Adam and Michelle rode the taxi together to school and they inspired each other. We would always see him and his Dad on the streets of Exeter riding his car, and he would always wave and give you a big smile. He was truly amazing amidst the adversity that he lived with and a true inspiration to all of us. He is now with the angels and I know his Dad and Grandma Simmons and Grandma Burke will greet him with the biggest of hugs. Thinking of all of you during this very difficult time.
Barbara Dalrymple
Dear Judy
I remember Adam at the London Y Camp Soleil, Camp John Island, and at your cottage . Adam was inspirational as was his mother and Chuck. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Barb Dalrymple
Larry & Evelyn
To all of Adam’s family, we share in your sorrow at this time of loss as we remember him with a great fondness and a joy for having known such a truly great guy. Your love and care greatly blessed Adam and was so thorough, so complete and so far beyond the norm that he reflected and radiated it back in volumes to all who came in contact with him. Adam will remain in our hearts and memories as forever special, forever young.
Dianne and Bill Dietrich
Judy and the Simmons and Burke families,
Our thought and prayers at this difficult time. I always remember seeing Adam biking past mom and dads house on Sanders Street with Fred. They always enjoyed seeing him. He was a very special child and adult. He will be missed. Memories are a wonderful thing.
Kathy Lucas
Judy and Chuck, my sincere and heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family. Although I didn’t know Adam, just looking at the pictures you have shared I can tell he was a very bright and shining star! God I’m sure has a very special tractor for him in Heaven.
Craig and Kathy Lucas
Ann Maxwell
Judy. Chuck and family
So sorry to hear of Adams passing, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Randy and Debby Wagler
Dear Judy, Chuck, and family, praying for you all and trusting the memories will bless you at this time as well as the love and care of family and friends. We are all reminded of the preciousness of life no matter how long we are here on earth.
God be with you today and in your tomorrows.
Randy and Debby
Vicki Geoffrey
Dear Judy and family, I just want to let you know how you touch my heart ❤️ in showing me what love was all about, I only met you at your stays at the hospital the way you sung his favourite songs to him, your unforgettable strength and your comforting ways to let Adam know he was safe. He was definitely given amazing parents. I offer my sincere sympathy to you and your family on the loss of a beautiful soul
Gary and Rue Brenner
To Adam’s family, our heartfelt love…..love and gratitude for the privilege of being allowed to share a window of time in the precious life of this miraculous human being, joyful boy, gift to the world.
Judy, I remember a fleeting conversation we once had. And this truth has never been more poignant:
Forget not to show love unto strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Heb 13:2
Love, Gary and Rue Brenner
Belle Ratz
No words would be able to express how much Adam meant to Jacque and how much she loved him..He was always kind and gentle to her. Thank you Adam..Shine bright..we will look for your new star. Hugs and tears..Roger, Belle, Jacquee Ratz
John and Marnie Hill
So sad that such a loving heart is gone from this world, but he made it better before he left.
Thinking of you
Mary Moffatt
We were blessed to have Adam as a student at Hensall Public School. As you have so aptly described, Adam was “a teacher” for all of us. The students at Hensall were richer for sharing time with him. Their compassion and caring for Adam was evident in and out of school. One only has to read the many tributes to Adam to know what an impact he had on others. He was so fortunate to have a loving, caring family that helped make his life the positive one he experienced. My condolences to you on the loss of a dear son, grandson and brother. His life enriched those around him and made us wiser and wealthier for the experience. Hugs and prayers to all!
joy Zwicker
Dear Judy,
Thank you for posting Adam’s obit in the local Victoria paper. I still remember those early days of sharing a room after our children’s birth & a few play dates those many years ago before our paths parted. Whenever I am driving by Fireman’s park I think of you & recall happier days , your zest for life & your fierce parenting energy . I recall Adam’s great smile & your love. I send you now mine with sincere sympathy. Yes, we will honour Adam’s example & offer random kindnesses on his behalf.
Joy
Margie Austin
Judy, Chuck and family, so very sorry for your loss of a beautiful son, always remember his big smile as he was riding around town on his wheels. May he be at peace now. Hugs to all.
Wendi Schwindt
Dear Judy, Charlie, Jane and Ann…the world has lost a very special person. I missed seeing Adam riding around town with his warm smile and sparkly eyes. Our deepest sympathy for your loss…
Wendi and John Schwindt
Chuck and Barb Dalrymple
We were so sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. He was such a blessing to all who knew him and he would always bring a smile to my face when I would see him pedalling his little car down the hill with his dog and dad in Exeter. Or the time you were in the bank or library in Hensall and here was Adam sitting in the car blowing the horn for you as I was walking by. He would always say Hi! when he saw you. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Barb and Chuck
Ron and Marlene Moore
Sending our deepest sympathy at this sad time. Take strength in knowing that in this small beautiful community others are praying to carry you through the tough days ???? Ron and Marlene Moore
Jo-Dee DesJardine
Chuck, Judy and family, please accept my condolences of the passing of Adam. In Adam’s memory, I will be sure to be mindful of offering random acts of kindness.
Judy, you parked beside me at the South Huron Medical Centre last week (you and your “grand dog”). I did not realize that you were probably running into the hospital to see or drop something off for Adam. I am sorry I was in such a rush…we never know what someone is going through.
Take care and do something kind for yourself. ❤️ My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jo-Dee DesJardine
Johnson family (Meg Mackenzie)
Aunt Jude & family, All our love to you.
Xoxo Meg, Bobby, Evans, Oscar & Frankie-Mae
Artemysia Fragiskatos
My sincerest condolences to you all. Adam’s warmth, smile and hilariousness will always stick out in my mind, such an incredible person to have been familiar with growing up. Sending you all warm thoughts in this time.
Glen and Donna Greb
Dear Judy, Chuck and family, your beautiful tribute to Adam captures his loving spirit and love for life. May your many memories of the good times sustain you in the coming days. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept my sincerest condolences. Donna Greb
Carol Coleman
Heartfelt condolences to you, Judy and family. Adam can truly fly now that he has his angels wings. I am praying that you are able to carry on with strength & grace in the coming hours, days, months and years. Adam made our world a better place!
Bill and Janice Shore
Judy and Chuck we are saddened to hear of Adam’s passing and send condolences to you and your family. When Bill and I reminisce of our days at SHDHS quite often our memories of Adam come up. Our particular favorite is when Adam would go to Bill’s door, usually for the attendance and when Bill opened the door Adam would rub the Panther or logo on Bill’s shirt. Brought a smile and chuckle each time. It is obvious from your words above the impact that he has had on the world around him during his time here. Heaven has gained a very special one.
Krista Gingerich
Dear Judy and Chuck,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. What an incredible man Adam was and heblessed the many lives he touched. Strength to each of you as you remember and cherish the good times and love he shared with you.
Dianne Heatherington
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane, Ann and the rest of your family,
I am SO sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. He was such an amazing guy, so loving and always smiling and taking your hand! What a wonderful spirit he had. Please accept my deepest sympathies and my heart goes out to you at this difficult time.
With Love, Dianne xo
chuck and phyllis collett
sorry to hear the sad news that Adam had passed. he was a very loving person and I always enjoyed seeing him. It was a pleasure to know him. may he rest in peace
Roger and Jan Dougall
Judy, Chuck, Jane and Ann:
So sorry to hear about your precious boy! So many of us were blessed to have known him and yes, he did teach us a lot about life and how to deal with what life throws at you. His contagious smile will be missed. So many memories to hold near and dear.
Melinda Downing
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss! Cherish the good memories and embrace the feeling of letting go of the struggles and pain… Hugs!
Lori Dietrich(Gould)
Sorry to hear of Adams passing. He will be missed, that smile..
Tracy McLennan
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane, Ann, and family,
My condolences on the passing of Adam. He had a wonderful smile that touched everyone. May the memories you share help you through this most difficult time. Thinking of you all.
Tracy McLennan
Mike & Leanne Restemayer
My deepest sympathies to the Simmons family, Adam’s peers and support staff. Thinking of you all.
Tana Nash
I never knew Adam. In fact, I just learned about him the past few days. I have had the pleasure of skating with Ann this past winter season on a synchronized team and when I read the beautiful obituary that so quickly captured what seems to be the sprit of Adam, I felt compelled to send my heartfelt condolences to Ann and her family. Adam seems like he was such an endearing human – one with an open and beautiful spirit – that we all inspire to be. I will pass on a random act of kindness this week in Adam’s honour.
Paige Lightfoot
Adam,
You were such a pleasure to get to know and you were someone that will forever stick in my memories! You always brought such happiness to the day. I only had the privaledge of working with you for a short period of time but it was always full of smiles and laughes and for that I thank you ! Thinking of both you and your family right now!
Donna Webster
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane & Ann:
My deepest sympathy.
I know the love that Adam brought to your lives, The love, hugs, smiles, concerns, were some of the daily
emotions that you experienced. In return, you be gave that love, laughter, hugs, etc. to Adam.
I am thinking of you at this time. May God bless and help you cope.
Love,
Donna
Donna Webster
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane & Ann:
I know that words can not describe the loss you are feeling at this time. Adam brought alot of love, kindness, care,
hugs, tears, etc into your lives. He gave to you daily as you bestoled your love, your concerns, hugs and kisses, laughter, etc. on him hourly.
My thoughts and prayers are with you NOW as you cope in the days ahead.
God bless.
Donna
feeling at this time.
Don & Donna Webster
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane & Ann:
I know that words can not describe the loss you are feeling at this time. Adam brought alot of love, kindness, care,
hugs, tears, etc into your lives. He gave to you daily as you bestoled your love, your concerns, hugs and kisses, laughter, etc. on him hourly.
My thoughts and prayers are with you NOW as you cope in the days ahead.
God bless.
Donna
feeling at this time.
Rick Hundey
Dear Judy, Chuck, Jane and Ann and family;
What a wonderful life Adam had and what a strong spirit never mind his grittiness. Taught us something he did. And you were always there for him. Good thoughts right? Still it is tough. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Jane and Rick Hundey.
Megan Scruton
Dear Judy, Chuck, and family,
We were so saddened to hear of Adam’s passing, but we take heart that he is now running, singing, and continuing to spread his contagious joy. We only had the privilege of meeting Adam on a couple of occasions, but his incredible smile and the twinkle in his eye made a lasting impression. Your beautiful words captured Adam’s spirit well – just beautiful.
You have been in our prayers, and will continue there over the tough times ahead. We wish we could be there this weekend to help you celebrate the life of such an incredible young man.
Love,
Megan, John, Laurissa, and Sarah Scruton
MacKenzie Wood and Family
Chuck and Judy,
My sincerest condolences to you and your family. You are all in the thoughts and prayers of our entire community. Remeber the happiness and laughter you have shared. The love Adam has shown you and blessed your family with. Find comfort in the knowledge that Adam was supported and loved; that his kindness has multiplied and taught our community what happiness is. As Frederick Beuchner said, “You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles and time between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”
Dave MacLeod
Dear Judy and Chuck, and your entire family
I am so sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. From the obituary it is clear how blessed he was to have such a loving and supportive family and community, and how blessed you were to have him as a son and brother. I have many happy memories of seeing Adam out for his ride on his pedal-car, and the great smile he always had. May happy memories sustain you during this difficult time
Dave and Cheryl MacLeod
Bev Hovius
Sending you all much love and hugs. Adam will be missed by all who knew him. Judy I remember when we had a four wheeler on our front yard years ago and he had to get on it and his face beamed with such happiness. My sincerest condolences.
christine johnston
Judy, I just want to say how sorry I am for you and your family at Adam’s passing. My daughter Tricia said he always hugged her when he saw her. It must be so hard for you. My thoughts are with you.
Sincerely
Christine Johnston Kreikamp
Melissa (MacLeod) Palmer
Mr and Mrs Mallette ,
I am so sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. It is very apparent how deeply Adam was loved by all who knew him. May the happy memories you have of him help you through these difficult times .
Norah Purser
Judy, Chuck and family…,
I had the greatest privilege and learned what determination and strength really are watching this young man turn every day into a memory. No matter how weak he seamed, he always cracked a smile or asked for you to sit with him to watch monster trucks. He loved car rides and access to the tunes!!! No matter the obstacle, he succeed where many would throw their hands up and quit! Adam, whatever awaits you, I hope it is loud and goes fast!! Your race is over and you won hands down. You will be missed. Xx
Shane & Connie Lesperance
My condolences to Adam’s Family and friends. He will be missed by all, who were touched by his smile. He was always on the go in Exeter and Hensall. I remember walking and seeing him riding with his dad and his dog. He always had a smile. May you find peace in all the memories you have ov him.
Trish Kreikamp
My condolences Judy and Chuck and your families. I will miss his wonderful smile and ever positive nature. He will be greatly missed.
Ena de Haan
Dear Judy & Chuck, My heart feels sad for you two and for Adam’s additional family members. Yes he has no pain, no seizures but you will miss him sorely. God will take care of Adam and we wish the same for you. Love & peace.
Darlene Porter
Thinking of you Judy and family , big hug and prayers. Adam is a shining star , an angel who is a gift to all of us .
Steve & Joyce Maas
To Mr. and Mrs. Mallette and family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. We are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Steve & Joyce Maas
Hs
So sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. Now a beautiful angel watching and smiling over all of you…. sending hugs and thoughts to you all. ❤ such special memories you have shared.
Nancy Barry
Dear Chuck and Judy and family,
You and your family have been in our thoughts since we heard the news of Adam’s passing. I’m sorry that we never had the opportunity to meet Adam, but we have enjoyed photos of family gatherings and outings with Adam. He always had a wonderful smile.
You have written such a beautiful tribute for Adam. He clearly touched a lot of lives….so many beautiful memories shared by family and friends.
With deepest sympathy, Nancy, Clive, Daniel and Sarah Barry
George and Sue Wilson
Judy, Chuck and family, John,aunts, uncles,cousins, May you have peace knowing Adam is not suffering. What a strong young man Adam was. He enjoyed the outdoors and his tractor. He had a big smile. Cherish your precious memories. Hugs and prayers, George and Sue Wilson
melissa
You will be missed deepy by all who had the grace to meet you i will aways remember going go karting when i first strared at communty living south huron as your friend you made me smile so much thank you for the joy u brought in to my life
Rick & Barb Ingram
Chuck Judy & Family
So sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. You will all be in our thoughts and prayers threw this difficult time.
Darlene Lightfoot
Judy and Family, so sorry to hear of the passing of Adam, your in my thoughts and prayers.
Gary and Lynn Mallette
Adam had the widest smile ever. His eyes would light up with a gift of a shiny red truck or just happy to see me. Dear boy, you will be missed. Prayers for comfort and peace for Judy, Chuck, Jane, Ann, Jo-Anne, Ward, Mike and Deanne. We love you all.
Bekah Fletcher (Mallette)
Dear sweet Adam, you were always a source of joy in everyone’s lives. Your light could reach even the darkest of places. I always looked forward to seeing you when coming to visit the family. You will be greatly missed.
Terri Finch
Adam, I will miss your beautiful smile, you “stealing” my food/pop when I wasn’t looking , your “thumbs up” and your “meer”when you wanted someone to come and sit with you. I know you are in heaven now and sitting with our heavenly Father and I am glad you are no longer in pain. The pain is ours when we think about you and miss you. Thinking about your immediate family, your Mom and Chuck and your sisters and Poppa and praying for God’s peace to surround them as they mourn your loss. I know you have touched so many people in your short life and I know I was blessed for knowing you.
Terri Finch
Stephanie Hovius
So sorry for your loss. Thinking of all of you during this difficult time.
Jessica Wollis
Jane, Ann, Judy, and family…
I am so sorry to read of Adam’s passing. Fond memories of growing up down the street, with him always riding around and smiling away. Always smiling. You’ll all be in my thoughts and prayers for the days and weeks to come. Now he’ll be riding around in heaven with Fred <3 xo
Karen L Brown
The words of Adam’s obituary brought both tears and joy to my heart. What a beautiful tribute! To Judy, Chuck and your beautiful family, my deepest condolences on Adam’s passing. I didn’t know him as well as many others but his bravery and his ability to teach others lessons they couldn’t find anywhere else were clear to everyone who crossed his path for even a moment as was the love his family had for him. Adam is now free to drive those tractors and fly like the butterfly he has always been. Hugs to all.
Susan Windle
This is a message that my daughter shared with Judy and Ann and Jane last evening.
It seems a little unfair that the years that shape who we become are the ones we remember so little about. The first 10 years of our lives are when we learn how to relate to other people. Without even knowing it the relationships we form set us up for who we are going to be and what we will achieve in the future.
Today I was reminded of a young man I grew up with who, to be completely honest, hasn’t crossed my mind in a while. As I reflected on my childhood interactions with him it hit me that he is a huge part of why I am successful today.
Adam lived across the street from me, he was one of the neighbourhood big brothers. During those formative years he taught me daily that he could indeed do just about everything any other big brother could, including but not limited to; telling on you, loosing you, scaring you, getting you in trouble, ‘forgetting’ to tell you about the freshly baked cookies, look for you, play with you, introduce you to a new neighbour, chase you, make you laugh, start a debate between you and a friend if it took longer to go around the block one way than the other, and call you for lunch.
Adam also had special needs, to this day, even though it is the field I have been working in for years, I still do not know a single one of his diagnosis. Partially because I was not very good at keeping up with him over the years, but also because it never mattered. Adam was too busy showing us what he could do for me to care about what he could not.
Unfortunately Adam passed away today, I doubt he would have reason to remember the pesky neighbourhood kid who always seemed to be in his backyard playing on his trampoline (even when his sister wasn’t home) 20 years ago, but I will be thinking about him as his family says goodbye.
Ann Simmons Jane Wilson Judy Burke-Mallette Please know that what Adam taught me is a message I have passed on every chance I get. Everyone has ability’s, let’s make the most of them!
For anyone else still reading this – please remember kids look up to you even if you don’t see yourself as a role model. Show kids the best of yourself. Show them what you can do because they might just be inspired!
Donna Perry
To Adam’s family, So sorry to hear of Adam’s passing. I remember when he used to ride around Exeter with his father. There are lots of people waiting for him . With Deepest Sympathy.
Donna Perry
Evelyn Steckle Vincent
To Adam’s family,
Adam was loved by many and is now running free. May God grant peace and comfort as you carry on without his love
Mike and JoAnne Pickering
Adam for all the years we have known each other you have amazed me at your strength to come back from many hard and painful times. This time it was just too much for your body to endure and you need to be free of that pain and suffering. Joining your dad and grandma in the peace of heaven to spread your wings and fly through the clouds!! You will for sure be missed. Bless you for all you have done to teach us of the true meaning of life!! Judy Chuck and family you were so lucky to have such a great guy to make you laugh, cry and just enjoy. Our deepest condolences to you all!! Mike JoAnne and Family!!
Susan Riley
It was always nice to see Adam trucking down the streets of Hensall on his tractor….he always looked he had a mission in mind. May he be at peace and thoughts and prayers go out to Judy and Chuck during this difficult time.
Sue Riley/Neil McAllister
Mark Watson
YOU TAUGHT ME LOTS ABOUT LIFE MY FRIEND !!!!! SPREAD THOSE WINGS AND FLY FREE BUDDY YOU EARNED THEM ! TIL WE MEET AGAIN